In a world where education is the cornerstone of future success, Step Forward’s People as Teachers in Training program, otherwise known as PATT, is making a significant impact.
The innovative program is designed to transform passionate individuals into skilled educators who are ready to make a difference in the lives of young children. Pending a background check, participants are hired as Education Aides. They can work between 20 and 40 hours a week inside a Head Start classroom, assisting the teachers and assistant teachers to meet child development goals and curriculum implementation. This will also help fulfill the required 420 hours of classroom experience necessary to obtain a CDA. Each PATT participant will receive 120 hours of online, on-demand courses in order for the individual to obtain their Child Development Associate credential, necessary to become a full-time teacher.
Once a week, participants will meet with Step Forward’s Professional Development team to increase their knowledge of early childhood education, Step Forward’s policies and procedures, and workplace professionalism.
Once the cohort is complete and participants obtain their CDA, individuals can be promoted to assistant teacher and beyond. Individuals will help prepare and implement all classroom activities while ensuring the care and safety of children within the Head Start program.
“Participating in the PATT program has been an incredible journey,” Shadale Smith, one of the participants in Step Forward’s first PATT cohort, said. “Not only were we eligible to receive Step Forward’s sign-on bonus and get paid for the hours we worked throughout the cohort, but the agency also covered all of the costs associated with obtaining the CDA.”
Following the PATT program, if individuals decide to further their education, Step Forward provides education assistance up to a bachelor’s degree.
“It has been amazing to see how Step Forward is investing in its people and our community, ensuring we have the support and resources we need to succeed,” Smith said.
Smith found out about the PATT program because her son, 5, attended Step Forward’s Willard Early Learning Center. Before becoming an Education Aide, she was a phlebotomist.
“I like to teach my son and seeing him come here and be so excited got me excited,” Smith said. “It’s very rewarding. The children run in every morning and give you hugs. It makes you feel good about being here.”
Step Forward expects to start its next PATT cohort in Fall 2024. The upcoming cohort promises to bring together a diverse group of individuals, each with their unique experiences and aspirations.
“Here at Step Forward, we are thinking outside the box when it comes to recruitment because we know how crucial it is to have dedicated educators,” Dr. Thea Wilson, Step Forward’s Vice President of Children and Families, said. “We are committed to investing in our staff by providing professional development opportunities, health and wellness initiatives, and competitive benefits. To attract and retain top talent, we offer sign-on bonuses, referral bonuses, and we now have an exciting, new compensation package for our educators. Our goal is to create an environment where our teachers feel valued and supported, ensuring they can provide the best possible education to the children in our community.”
To apply for Step Forward’s next PATT cohort, click here.
Step Forward Head Start is hiring!
The agency is offering a sign-on bonus of $1,000 for full time employees and $500 for part-time employees.
Positions include teachers, family service workers, nutrition aides and more. Step Forward Head Start is looking for education staff passionate about preparing young students for the future and helping them develop a love for learning early. Take a step toward a new fulfilling career today! Learn more and apply for open positions here.
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