In partnership with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), Southeast Children's Fund offers scholarships to eligible child care educators employed in OSSE-licensed child development facilities to enroll in a CDA training and preparation program. Complete this form and an SCF staff member will follow up with you to provide more information about CDA cohort options and assist with enrollment.
If you need support completing this form, use our contact form or call the CDA Help Desk at (202) 406-0422.
An SCF staff member will follow up with you about cohort options and next steps.
Thank You!
Your interest form has been submitted. A member of the SCF team will follow up with you shortly to share information about upcoming CDA cohorts and help you with enrollment.
Questions? Email southeastcda@gmail.com or call (202) 220-1464.
Building the Foundation of the Early Childhood Workforce
Southeast Children's Fund supports early childhood educators at the entry and foundational stages of the profession through high-quality training, credential preparation, and practice-based learning.
What Is the CDA Credential?
The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a nationally recognized credential awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition to early care and education professionals who meet established competency standards.
Nationally Recognized
Awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, the CDA signifies that an educator has the ability to nurture the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social development of young children.
DC Workforce Requirement
As of December 2, 2023, assistant teachers, associate home caregivers, and home caregivers working in OSSE-licensed child development facilities are required to hold a CDA credential.
120 Hours of Training
Educators complete professional coursework aligned to the Council's competency standards, covering safe learning environments, family engagement, and child development principles.
Both Center & Home Settings
SCF offers preparation pathways for both center-based and home-based early childhood educators, meeting educators where they work.
A Strong Early Childhood System Begins With Well-Prepared Educators
Many early childhood professionals face significant barriers to entering and advancing in the field. SCF's educator preparation work is designed to directly address these gaps.
Aligned with Long-Term Advancement
By investing early in preparation, SCF helps strengthen workforce stability and improve early learning quality across the District. The CDA credential serves as a foundational milestone, positioning educators for degree pathways including DC LEAD.
Instruction, Coaching & Applied Learning
SCF's CDA preparation model combines multiple approaches to support educators through credential attainment and professional growth.
Guided Instruction
CDA-aligned coursework led by experienced early childhood educators with deep knowledge of the competency standards and DC's early learning landscape.
Practice-Based Learning
Training that connects coursework to real classroom scenarios, helping educators build decision-making skills and confidence through scenario-based practice.
Admissions & Navigation Support
Assistance with enrollment, credential requirements, and next-step planning so no educator has to navigate the process alone.
Scholarship Opportunities
SCF offers scholarship support for eligible early childhood educators enrolling in the CDA training and preparation program, reducing financial barriers to credentialing.
Learn More About the CDA Pathway
Everything you need to know about earning your CDA credential with SCF's support.
To earn a CDA credential, early childhood educators must complete the following steps. SCF provides guidance and support throughout each one.
- Complete 120 hours of professional education in early childhood development
- Complete 480 hours of work experience with their specified age group
- Develop a professional development portfolio
- Schedule and complete a verification visit
- Schedule and pass the CDA exam
SCF's CDA coursework aligns with the Council for Professional Recognition's competency standards and covers eight core areas:
- Planning a safe and healthy learning environment
- Advancing children's physical and intellectual development
- Supporting children's social and emotional development
- Building productive relationships with families
- Managing an effective program
- Maintaining professionalism
- Observing and recording child behavior
- Understanding principles of child development and learning
The CDA exam is a key component of earning the credential. SCF prepares educators through scenario-based training that mirrors real classroom situations. This approach helps educators build decision-making skills and confidence by practicing how to respond to common challenges in early learning environments.
Educators renewing their CDA credential must complete continuing education requirements within established timeframes. SCF can provide guidance on renewal pathways and relevant training options.
For CDA renewal support, contact SCF directly at southeastcda@gmail.com or visit the Council for Professional Recognition.
Take the First Step Toward Your CDA Credential
SCF's CDA training and preparation program supports early childhood educators in earning a nationally recognized credential and building a strong foundation for career growth.
Start by submitting the CDA Interest Form. This helps our team understand your goals, eligibility, and preferred training pathway.
After submitting the interest form, educators are encouraged to attend an SCF CDA Information Session. You will learn why the CDA is the "best first step" in early childhood careers, steps to earn the credential, what a professional development portfolio includes, and options for face-to-face and online learning.
SCF offers scholarship opportunities for eligible early childhood educators enrolling in the CDA training and preparation program. Detailed instructions will be provided after your information session.
Need Help? We're Here.
SCF's team is here to support you throughout the process. Reach out directly or contact the OSSE ECE Help Desk.
Invest in Your Career. Start with the CDA.
SCF's CDA program offers experienced instructors, flexible learning options, alignment with long-term degree pathways, and a community-rooted approach focused on educator success.