Launch Your Career as an Early Childhood Educator with Chicago Commons!
This cohort-based program provides fully subsidized college courses at one of our Early Childhood Education centers, guidance to qualify as a teacher’s assistant, and assistance with transportation, meals, and childcare. Upon earning six college credits, participants become eligible to be hired as Teacher’s Aides in early education.
Through our partnership with the Chicago Early Learning Workforce Scholarship and City Colleges of Chicago, you’ll start with two live, online courses and transition to on-campus classes at Malcolm X College. Sessions run from April to July 2025.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
- Have a GED/High School diploma
- Be a city of Chicago resident
- Be an active parent/caregiver at one of Chicago Commons’ Early Education centers or one of our partner sites
- Be a US Citizen or DACA recipient
- Pass a background check
- Make a 3-year employment commitment
- Have not completed any prior early childhood coursework
HOW TO ENROLL:
Attend one mandatory Virtual Information Session
REGISTER BELOW
Eligible participants must commit to attending six workshops with a Post-Secondary Coordinator in preparation for returning to school. These workshops will teach essential techniques such as time management, effective study habits, money management, and more. Click here to download the 2024 Pathways for Parents Flyer.
*Support for completing applications is available upon request.