CDA 2.0
Scholarships and Support
For providers in Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns Counties:
- CDA applicants may receive support from multiple scholarship programs.
- For the online course, the ELC of North Florida offers a scholarship for the class and fee to the National CDA Council.
- For in person classes, the TEACH Scholarship is available.
For additional information, please contact:
- The Children’s Forum at 877-358-3224
- Danesha Davis at 904-726-1500, ext. 229
Please note: ECS4Kids Head Start and Early Head Start employees interested in the CDA training program must contact their center manager for specific training instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding First Time CDA
Q: How much does it cost to attend CDA 2.0 classes with ECS4Kids?
A: There is no cost to attend the class for those in Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam & St. Johns Counties, however, there is a $35 application fee for those who wish to attend but work in a surrounding county.
Q: How do I apply for a scholarship for CDA 2.0?
A: You must work for a School Readiness program, complete an Early Learning Coalition Staff Credential Application or an ECS4Kids Scholarship Application, and attach a high school diploma and a DCF Transcript. Scholarships are awarded while funding lasts.
Q: What materials will I need to bring to participate in ECS4Kids CDA 2.0 training classes?
A: You will need the following:
- A one- or two-inch binder
- 9 dividers
- 30 page protectors
- 12 small mailing labels
- One black marker
- One medium-sized pack of post-it notes
- Books are provided for candidates that have been awarded a CDA Scholarship
Q: If I have an FCCP (CDAE), can I participate in ECS4Kids training class and apply for a National CDA?
A: Yes, please contact Danesha Davis at 904-726-1500, ext. 229, for more details.
Q: What items do I need in apply for a CDA scholarship with ECS4Kids or ELC of North Florida?
A: A letter from your director on the center’s letterhead stating you work for a School Readiness program and have worked at least 480 hours with children, a high school diploma, and a DCF Transcript.
Q: I earned my National CDA in Florida, but I am moving to Georgia. Can I use my CDA there?
A: Yes, the National CDA is recognizable in the United States, including Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
Q: Once I complete the CDA 2.0 training with ECS4Kids, will my instructor issue my CDA?
A: No, to earn your National CDA you must:
- Develop a professional portfolio.
- Apply for your National CDA with the Council for Professional Recognition.
- Select a PD Specialist.
- Receive a “Ready to Schedule” notice from The Council for Professional Recognition.
- Schedule your CDA Exam.
- Schedule your Verification Visit.
- Apply for a CDA Scholarship or make payment to The Council for Professional Recognition in the amount of $425.
Once all requirements have been submitted, The Council for Professional Recognition will determine if the candidate has successfully earned a National CDA. An email will be sent to the candidate explaining The Council’s decision.
Regarding CDA Renewal
Q: My CDA is expired or about to expire, does ECS4Kids pay for the cost of renewals?
A: ECS4Kids does not assume the cost for renewals and does not cover the cost of CDA if your CDA has expired. All candidates are encouraged to use the TEACH Scholarship Program to cover the cost of renewal. Candidates can apply online here.
Q: I have a CDA, but I would like to earn a second CDA credential. Will ECS4Kids Pay for my second credential?
A: ECS4Kids awards one CDA Scholarship per lifetime. All candidates are encouraged to use the TEACH Scholarship Program to cover the cost of a second CDA credential. Candidates can apply online here.
Q: When should I apply for a CDA Scholarship?
A: Candidates may apply for an ECS4Kids CDA Scholarship between July 1st to May 31st. Any applications received after the May 31st deadline will be added to next term beginning after July 1st.
Q: What are the renewal requirements for a CDA?
A: CDA Candidates should begin the renewal process at least six months prior to the credential’s expiration date. Candidates should do the following:
- View CDA Renewal guidelines here.
- Apply for the TEACH Scholarship Program here.
- Select an approved ECE Reviewer approved by the Council for Professional Recognition. Candidates must be sure to get the correct spelling of their reviewers’ name and email address.
- Apply for CDA Renewal here.
- Provide proof of at least 45 in-service training hour or 4.5 CEU’s or 1 College course in ECE within the last three years.
- Have a current First Aid CPR Card.
- Become a member of a National Early Childhood Organization. Please note: high scope issues FREE Memberships to EC Educators. You can apply here.
ECS4Kids Regional Training Institute
ECS4Kids has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). In obtaining this accreditation, ECS4Kids has demonstrated that it complies with the ANSI/IACET Standard which is recognized internationally as a standard of good practice. As a result of the Authorized Provider status, ECS4Kids is authorized to offer IACET CEUs for programs that qualify under the ANSI/IACET Standard.