There is an increasing demand for qualified early childhood educators in the field. A career in early childhood education can make a positive and lasting impact on children, families, and communities. There is a diverse range of career paths within early childhood education, including teaching, curriculum development, program administration, special education, advocacy, and more.

ECEC Careers I and II and TECTA Orientation Equivalency
As a high school student you have your choice of electives. The Early Childhood Education Careers (ECEC) elective has two components: ECEC I and II. If you choose this elective and complete both of these courses with a grade of ‘B’ or above, you are eligible to receive a certificate from TECTA that confirms that you also meet the standards of the TECTA Center-Based Orientation.

Normally, individuals must complete the 30 hour Orientation while working in a licensed childcare program to receive their TECTA Certificate of Completion. But, because the ECE Careers classes contain curriculum and training equivalent to the Center-Based Orientation, you qualify to receive a TECTA Certificate of Completion after completing ECEC I and II with a ‘B’ or above.

This makes you eligible for tuition support from TECTA for college courses beginning your first year at any Tennessee public community college or university.