Early Childhood Initial Certificate (I-BEST)

Program Details Early Childhood Initial Certificate (I-BEST)

Here is a general overview of what your classes will look like following each quarter. This information may change. Please contact your advisor for more information regarding the courses. To see which materials are needed for your courses, click this bookstore link Links to an external site. and enter the course information.

What is I-BEST?

 General Overview

When can I start? Fall (September), Winter (January), Spring (April), or Summer (July)

How long is the program? 1 quarter (2 to 3 months) with 12 total credits

When do classes meet? Mostly online. Practicum courses require students to complete a certain number of hours in childcare setting.

Courses have English and Spanish instructions.  All assignments must be submitted in English.

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program offers a series of stackable certificates to meet Washington State requirements to work in a home daycare or child care center. The Initial Certificate introduces the skills for a Child Development Associate and serves as your first step in this career. You will be qualified to work as an assistant teacher, as long as you are 18 years old and have completed your high school diploma or GED.

What does a childcare worker do?

What is the average salary?

$38,710 annually Links to an external site. in the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma area. Most childcare workers in King County earn at least $33,010.

Who can I contact with questions?

• New students, please visit our Zoom lobby (Links to an external site.) to talk with someone by video chat, or e-mail our advising department.
• For current students, please visit RTC's advising page (Links to an external site and look for the faculty counselor assigned to Early Childhood Education.

Overall Materials Needed:

1. Access to a functioning laptop or computer (you may use computers on the RTC campus)
2. Webcam (in case some courses require Zoom classes)
3. Headset with microphone (in case some courses require Zoom classes)
4. Working internet connection
5. School supplies ($20 for notebook, pens, and highlighters)

You must pass all courses with a 2.0 GPA or higher to graduate.

 Financial Aid Eligibility Warning

This specific program is not eligible for federal financial aid because it is too short. Please talk to your adviser about different ways to pay for tuition.

Your Classes

You study different ways to guide children and build positive relationships with their families. You also learn how to prepare healthy snacks, identify illnesses, and support families with information about nutrition and health.

It's time to apply for graduation!