Our Academy
EFS believes in educating caregivers to produce high-quality learning environments for the children and families they serve.
The Academy team provides an innovative and interactive curriculum to our partners.
The Educational First Steps Academy
The Academy Training Mission
The Academy Training mission is to deliver exceptional professional development opportunities and resources that empower educators to elevate their expertise in early childhood education. Our comprehensive training program equips educators with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to significantly impact the growth and development of the children they serve. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, instructional videos, and personalized coaching, participants can refine their teaching practices and foster dynamic, engaging learning environments.
We offer over 70 training sessions with various options, including in-person sessions, live webinars, and pre-recorded videos. Additionally, we provide support for obtaining and maintaining Child Development Associate credentials, as well as preservice training tailored for both new and experienced teachers.
Transforming Early Education
At no cost to educators, families, or communities, Educational First Steps partners with childcare centers to help them meet and exceed national accreditation standards. Through comprehensive training, expert mentoring, and tailored resource support, we guide centers in achieving and sustaining excellence. This collaborative approach empowers providers to deliver high-quality care and early learning environments that set children on the path to lifelong success.
To learn more and register for our upcoming Academy opportunities, explore the training sessions in the calendar below!
EFS Academy Training Schedule
Texas Core Competencies
for Practitioners
Texas Core Competencies
for Administrators
👣
Child Growth & Development
🧩
Supporting Skill Development
🚸
Families
& Community Relationships
❤️
Responsive
Interactions
& Guidance
📝
Observation
& Assessment
🌡️
Health, Safety
& Nutrition
👩🏫
Learning Environments, Planning Framework, Curriculum & Standards
🗣️
Diversity & Dual Language Learners
👤
Professionalism
& Ethics
🌐
Establishing &
Maintaining an
Effective Organization
👥
Human Resource Leadership & Development
📚
Implementing a Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum
& Environment
📊
Business &
Operations
Management
🧰
Maintaining a
Healthy & Safe Environment
🏘️
Instituting Family & Community-Centered Programming
Child Development Associate CDA
What is a CDA?
The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education. Through instructor-led courses, attendees, upon completion, will have received 120 hours of early childhood training in 8 competency standards and prepares them for success to apply and pass the CDA Credential Exam.
We support educators in maintaining and strengthening their qualifications by upholding the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Additionally, we share key elements of Educational First Steps' Four Steps to Excellence 2.0 quality-building course curriculum to further enhance their effectiveness.
Questions for the Professional Development team?
EMAIL: efsacademy@educationalfirststeps.org
Why it Matters:
EFS increases early childhood teacher retention and by providing professional development, training, and data support that empowers ECE teachers as they master skills and build credentials as development specialists.
Register for professional development courses, including the Child Development Associate via the calendar above.