Through the United Way of Greater Charlottesville’s Early Learning Career Launch (ELCL) initiative, the Pathways to Success Early Childhood Educator Training Program is designed to help participants get the skills needed to become an early childhood educator in the Charlottesville region. The program provides 80 hours of paid training, including state-required licensing, safety certifications, and workplace readiness with a child development focus. During training, participants will work with UVA Pipelines & Pathways and partnering childcare facilities to potentially obtain full-time positions upon successful completion of the program. Employer partners include Bright Horizons, Piedmont YMCA Early Learning Center, and numerous other community childcare centers.
Program schedule
Training will be held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June 1, 2026, to June 26, 2026, at the UVA Human Resources Office Building (2420 Old Ivy Road, Charlottesville). Parking is available in front of the building. The United Way will assist with parking costs if incurred. Training will include 80 hours of state-required licensing (Preservice Training), safety certifications (ASHI Pediatric CPR/First Aid), workplace readiness training (resumes, interviewing, professional image, team building, conflict resolution, and related skills), and numerous child development modules recognized by the state licensing board.
High school diploma or GED, at least 18 years of age, and no barrier crimes are required. No prior experience or licensing is required.
Program information
Selected participants are expected to attend all 80 hours of training. They will receive a stipend of $15 an hour during training, based on 20 hours a week for four weeks. If selected for employment after training with one of the employer partners, pay will be no less than $15 an hour. If offered employment, participants are expected to accept employment and begin working with one of the program’s employer partners. Those who are placed into employment will continue in the Early Learning Career Launch program, receiving mentoring and professional development to progress within the childcare industry.
All interested candidates must complete an online application using the link provided and submit required supplemental documentation. After receiving a completed application, organizers will reach out to schedule an in-person interview.
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United Way Charlottesville
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