Guide Spotlights Path
To Early Childhood Education Careers
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has released “Careers in Early Childhood Education: A MARYLAND GUIDE,” providing guidance about the educational pathways available for potential and current early childhood professionals seeking the training and experience necessary to be effective.
“There are a number of different roads of education and experience that can lead to a career in early childhood education,” said Dr. Rolf Grafwallner, Assistant State Superintendent for MSDE’s Division of Early Childhood Development. “This guide is great for high school and college students interested in Early Childhood Education as well as for professionals that are already working in the field.”
The 36-page publication is customized for Maryland and provides an overview of the different career choices--working directly with children or supporting those who do--available in the field of early childhood education (ECE) and development. The guide describes specific jobs, including lists of position responsibilities, recommended or required education requirements, and potential job settings. ECE professionals also will find information about two- and four-year degrees, training, and other preparation programs and options. Finally, there is information about financial assistance that is available to support early childhood education careers.
“The guide lays out various minimum training and other requirements for positions that are required by law,” said Elizabeth Kelley, State Administrator for MSDE’s Office of Child Care. “It’s all about developing professionals to meet the needs of Maryland youngest children and students. MSDE has a variety of programs that support early childhood professionals in acquiring the training and experience they need to obtain a particular position or degree.”