Camp Fire’s Early Education Apprenticeship Program (EEAP) is the first of its kind in Texas and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. This is critical as it solidifies the program as a recognized apprenticeship. Last month, 20 early education teachers were welcomed as the inaugural class for this ground-breaking program.
The Early Education Apprenticeship Program (EEAP) is an educational and career pathway building program. The first U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program for early educators in the State of Texas, the EEAP includes paid on-the-job-learning, coupled with educational courses and one-on-one coaching in the classroom from a Camp Fire mentor.
Course work began in September for the inaugural class of apprentices. “We rapidly adjusted our course delivery and evaluated tools to ensure our apprentices are safe during this uncertain time, while still receiving ample in-person support, virtually in most instances, that is a cornerstone of the program. The current virtual tools available to us and the ease of access will make sure each apprentice finds the support to start – and eventually complete – the program successfully,” shared Eboni Kelly, director of Camp Fire’s Early Education Apprenticeship Program.
Other benefits include:
- wage increases;
- stipends that recognize milestones; and
- earning up to 21+ hours of college credit.
Completion of the EEAP requires 4,000 hours (2 years of employment) of on-the-job learning, completed at an approved place of employment, and 288 hours of coursework.
The EEAP is offered in partnership with Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, Tarrant County College, Tarleton State University and T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Texas. Funding support has been provided by the George and Faye Young Foundation, The Miles Foundation, Rainwater Charitable Foundation, Sid Richardson Foundation, and United Way of Tarrant County.
