We Believe That
A teacher's impact is the key step in changing the world.
Our Founding
In 2003, inspired by the legacy of a hardworking childcare educator and the struggles of working-class families, EECI was born. We saw passionate educators forced to choose between their love for teaching and financial security, and we knew change was needed. Today, our mission is simple yet powerful: to break down barriers and empower early childhood educators, ensuring their dedication lights the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
Realizing that early childhood educators, with the right training and support, could truly shine and change lives....
EECI was born.
What We Do
EECI is here to help people build strong careers in early childhood education. We offer affordable instruction and apprenticeship programs that give you the skills needed to succeed. By supporting teachers and childcare workers, we help create a brighter future for our communities.
Affordable Instructional Opportunities:
We provide low-cost, debt-free Child Development Associate (CDA) prep and Early Childhood Educator College Credit Hours bridging the academic gap from credential to college grad.
Entrepreneur Support:
In areas with few or no childcare centers, we help future childcare business owners get started.
Community Research:
We gather data to understand the challenges in the childcare field and work with partners to overcome them.
On-Site Courses:
We visit rural and tribal communities to offer courses and remove barriers to education for vulnerable children.
Nutrition Program:
We send fruits and vegetables to childcare providers facing food shortages, promoting healthy practices.
Job Connections:
As a US Department of Labor registered apprenticeship ambassador, we link job seekers with employers.
Personalized Support:
Our courses include one-on-one help so every student, including those earning their GED or with learning challenges an succeed.
Confidence Building:
We work to close the gap between basic education and higher education, helping you feel ready for the next step.
Advocacy:
We join discussions, host events, and use social media to support policy changes for better wages for childcare workers.
Community Partnerships:
We work with local and state groups to strengthen our communities and support workforce development.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Come Visit
Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm
Sat: 10am - 2pm
Sun: Closed
Online: 8 am EST - 11 pm EST Daily
Our Initiatives
As a nonprofit, 501c3 at the Early Education Career Institute we are achieving more with our initiatives for you as early care practitioners than ever before. We work on many exciting projects helping to improve your day-to-day career experience. We value the impact you have in the economical flow of our nation, as you provide childcare while fostering the development and well-being of children.
We acknowledge the important role you play as essential service providers to communities across the nation. As an institute we are very proud of the progress we continue to make in impacting practitioners lives through our career services, community partnerships and resources. Learn more about what we do, who we help, and how we work every day to promote positive change in the lives of early education practitioners.
Enroll in the number one ECE Career Institute
In The Nation!
Early Childhood Educator Programs
At the Early Education Career Institute, we are dedicated to stepping up our efforts in addressing the issues to support building the ECE workforce pipeline. Competence and qualification to promote labor readiness is by no means an easy feat, but through access and affordability we have facilitated progress in this area. We provide ongoing credential and career competence courses to support the recruitment and hiring efforts aiding employers, states and federal workforce development boards build a sustainable ECE infrastructure through new Early Care and Education labor ready talent.
EECI HERO
SCHOLARSHIP
Wage The Difference
At the Early Education Career Institute (EECI), we are dedicated to providing aspiring and new childcare workers with the support they need to succeed in their careers. We understand the importance of ongoing education and professional development in the childcare industry, which is why we offer limited scholarships to help individuals maintain employment while furthering their skills.
Our Hero scholarships provide recipients with: a one-time course opportunity for $65 to enhance their knowledge and expertise. The scholarship does not include the CDA assessment or book.
PLAYTHINGS
Play To Learn Fostering Play Initiative
The PlayThings project provides on-site make and take projects and mailed monthly activity boxes to Practitioners. The goal is to promote great opportunities for you as a practitioner to access quality play to learn materials. You may use these to implement practices with the children you serve. The Early Education Career Institute recognizes with access to the right resources, as a community of practitioners you become empowered by your abilities and gain the confidence to fulfill your potential as educational coaches to children you serve.
CONTACT US
Career Centers
2205 Decker Blvd
Columbia SC 29206
2100 Prospect St
Indianapolis, IN
Mailing Address
Early Education Career Institute #1039
4464 Devine Street, Suite M
Columbia SC 29205
(833) 467-9997