CDA Apprenticeship (High School Students)

Horizon has a unique opportunity for you! Are you interested in working with children and earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in as little as 6 months? We are able to help you achieve this. For over 46 years, Horizon has been at the forefront of providing high-quality care and education, significantly shaping the lives of children. Horizon offers programs for children 6 weeks to 14 years of age. Our Mission is to provide high-quality early childhood education, care, and youth development programs . Horizon Education Centers proudly serves a range of communities in Lorain County. These primary communities are at the heart of our commitment to early childhood education.

NEXT SESSION STARTS JUNE 15TH, 2026!

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Description:

During the summer attend a CDA training class one day a week at the Horizon Admin, 8 hours a day, and work in the classroom 4 days a week, 8 hours per day. This program may take 6 months to complete, depending on whether you are a Junior or Senior in High School. During the school year, it will be required to spend one day with the CDA Coordinator at the Horizon Admin building in North Olmsted. Details will be worked out later as far as the number of hours for that day because of school schedules. During the school year, you must work at least 2 days after school until 480 hours are met. Earn this credential while being paid for a total of 120 online training hours (if it falls during the regular school day, it will be unpaid) and 480 paid classroom hours at $12.50 per hour . Centers operate from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday. Weekends are for you! This position will quickly enhance your opportunity for advancement into higher classroom roles that come with a significant pay increase! Assistants holding a CDA credential earn $15.50, and leads with a CDA credential earn $17.50! We have 13 locations, which are in Berea, Cleveland, Elyria, Lakewood, Lorain and North Olmsted, and they are accepting applications today.

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CDA Apprenticeship Program Coordinator Benefits:

Earn while you learn model No-cost online training Books and resources to complete all classes On-site coaching and mentoring Free laptop and technology support CDA credential from the Council for Professional Recognition Minimal cost childcare

Who Can Apply:

Must be at least a junior in high school.

Commit to the following:

Completing the CDA Professional Portfolio Attend the weekly training class Complete 120 paid online training hours (unpaid if falls during the regular school day) Complete 480 paid classroom hours