Frances J. Rollins
Professional Development Institute
Credentialing, Scholarships & Workforce Development for D.C. Educators
Empowering early childhood educators through nationally recognized credentialing, degree pathways, and workforce development, funded by OSSE.
What is the Professional Development Institute?
At the heart of SCF's commitment to educator development is the Frances J. Rollins PDI — providing programs that improve the skills and qualifications of early childhood educators across Washington, D.C.
SCF has been conducting Child Development Associate (CDA) training continuously for over 25 years, making it one of the original partners established by the former Office of Early Childhood Development. Both signature programs — the CDA Program and the DC LEAD Program — are funded by OSSE and help position Washington, D.C. as a national leader in early childhood education.
As a licensed non-degree post-secondary institution, SCF offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and has paved the way for many educators to apply their training toward a college degree in early childhood development.
Two Pathways. One Mission.
The Frances J. Rollins PDI is built on two signature programs designed to advance the skills, credentials, and careers of D.C.'s early childhood workforce.
SCF has supported over 3,000 childcare educators in securing their CDA credential and renewal. As the only ECE organization in D.C. accredited by the HELC to offer CEUs, SCF plays a crucial role in workforce development for the District's early childhood field.
Start Your CDA JourneySince 2021, SCF's DC LEAD program offers full-tuition scholarships for associate and bachelor's degrees in ECE. This initiative positions D.C. as a national model for high-quality early childhood education by investing in the educators who shape the city's future.
Advance Your DegreeCDA Course Tracks
Flexible pathways to credentialing and renewal across all major CDA endorsements for child care professionals at every stage of their career.
- 120 Instructional Hours
- 480 Practicum Experience Hours
- 45 Instructional Hours
- 80 Practicum Experience Hours
- Infant & Toddler
- Preschool
- Family
- Infant & Toddler
- Preschool
- Family
Do You Own a Child Development Center?
SCF's PDI provides technical assistance to Child Development Home and Center owners and prospective owners. Clients receive guidance in all aspects of the child development business — from licensing laws to curriculum, learning environment issues, and staff development.
Seminars, workshops, and one-to-one consultations deliver technical assistance. Childcare facilities and organizations can also arrange for on-the-job CDA training for their staff.
Highly Trained Instructional Staff
SCF boasts a highly trained staff for both its child development programs and professional development institute, with degrees ranging from Associate's to Doctorates. The CDA instructional team has extensive experience in both early childhood and adult education, and all are certified trainers and professional development specialists.
All Levels
Expertise
Ready to Advance Your Career?
Join thousands of D.C. early childhood educators who have earned their CDA credential or advanced degree through SCF's Professional Development Institute.