How to Get EEC Certified in Massachusetts
By opening the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), Massachusetts became the first state to create an agency to oversee the development and education of infants and toddlers.
The EEC helps families with young children by providing funding for and organizing early-education classes and after-school programs. Three different certification levels are available in the EEC program: "Teacher," "Lead Teacher," and "Director." If you qualify, an EEC certification can fulfill your desire to help young children.
- EEC Application
1 EEC Teacher Certification
2 Be at least 21 years
Be at least 21 years of age or have a high school diploma.
3 Complete a three-credit course
Complete a three-credit course in child growth and development. This course can be taken as part of an early childhood education program at an accredited college or university.
4 Work
Work for nine months in a supervised educational setting, such as a preschool classroom. As an alternative, obtain an associate or bachelor's degree in early childhood education and work for three months in a supervised educational setting. Obtain proof of this by having your supervising teacher sign a form included with the EEC application packet.
5 Fill out the EEC application
Fill out the EEC application and provide the necessary documentation, such as official college transcripts and proof that you completed the work requirements. Send the application to Department of Early Education and Care, Professional Qualifications Unit, 51 Sleeper Street, Fourth Floor, Boston, MA 02210.
6 Lead Teacher EEC Certification
7 Be at least 21 years of age
Be at least 21 years of age, with an EEC Teacher Certification.
Complete nine more credits in early childhood education coursework.
Gain the requisite work experience. The experience varies according to the degree held by the applicant. You need 36 months of experience with a high school diploma or GED; 27 months experience if you have Montessori credentials or a Child Development Associate certification. You need 18 months experience with an associate degree in Early Childhood Education or 9 months if you have a Bachelor's degree or other advanced degree in Early Childhood Education.
Complete the EEC application and provide the necessary documentation, such as official college transcripts and proof that you completed the work requirements. Send the application to Department of Early Education and Care, Professional Qualifications Unit, 51 Sleeper Street, Fourth Floor, Boston, MA 02210.
8 EEC Director Certification
Be an EEC Lead Teacher.
Complete two more credits in day care administration classes and two more credits in early childhood education. Applicants seeking Director II certification will also need two additional credits in advanced day care administration, supervision, or a program focusing on children with disabilities.
Possess the requisite work experience. Director I and II applicants must possess the same experience as a Lead Teacher, plus an additional six months.
Fill out the EEC application and provide the necessary documentation, such as official college transcripts and proof that you completed the work requirements. Send the application to Department of Early Education and Care, Professional Qualifications Unit, 51 Sleeper Street, Fourth Floor, Boston, MA 02210.
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