Description of Program:

Formally called CDAE
(CDAE is no longer recognized by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in Florida.)

• The FCCPC credential leads to increased professional recognition, higher pay, and greater potential for career advancement.
• Participation is voluntary, but may be required to qualify for the state of Florida Staff and/or Director Credentials.
• Training is provided by SFCC and the FCCPC certificate and credential are issued by DCF.
• The FCCPC credential gives students credit for three courses (9 credit hours) toward the A.A.S. degree in Child Development and Education.

The FCCPC consists of two 60-clock hour courses (total of 120 clock hours.) Both courses are offered in spring, summer and fall terms on the Highlands (Avon Park) and/or Hardee campuses and periodically instructed in Spanish with bilingual instructors. In addition to these two courses, several other requirements complete the FCCPC credential program, including submission of specified documents and an on-site teaching observation by an SFCC staff member. Please contact Deborah (DeArce) Gutierrez for more information.

The Teacher Education and Compensation Helps Early Childhood (T.E.A.C.H.) scholarship program may help cover expenses for the FCCPC courses and A.A.S. degree in child development courses. For more information on the TEACH scholarship, contact Deborah (DeArce) Gutierrez, or visit the T.E.A.C.H. Web site.