Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Principles of Teaching/The Teaching Academy Overview
At South Dade Senior High School, our Magnet in Education & Training provides an immersive, pathway-driven experience combining two distinct but highly complementary courses of study: Early Childhood Education and Principles of Teaching. Most students select and complete both pathways, making them versatile, workplace-ready, and college-ready. In the Early Childhood track, students earn the credentialing, training, and on-site practicum hours needed to teach ages 3-5 in Florida’s early learning environment. In the Principles of Teaching track, students deepen their knowledge of human development, instructional methods, classroom management, and mentoring in PK-12 settings. Together, the two tracks prepare graduates not only with industry credentials and practicum experience but also with a strong foundation for college and careers in education and child-care professions. This dual-track model ensures students graduate with transferable credentials, real-world experience, and a head-start on post-secondary study or immediate employment.
Early Childhood Education (ECE) Overview
South Dade’s Early Childhood Education program prepares students for real work in preschool settings while building a strong foundation in child development, safety, health, communication, lesson planning, and family engagement. Instruction is aligned to Florida’s Education & Training career cluster and approved by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Students complete a 480-hour practicum working directly with children ages 5 and under.
Industry Credentials & Training
- ECPC (Early Childhood Professional Certificate) awarded upon completion of coursework + 480 practicum hours; meets DCF Staff Credential requirements in Florida.
- DCF 45-Hour Introductory Childcare Training (meets state training requirements).
- CPR & Pediatric First Aid certifications included.
- CDA Pathway: Students compile the portfolio/practicum hours needed to pursue the national Child Development Associate (CDA) credential if desired after meeting ECPC/DCF requirements.
What You’ll Learn
- Developmentally appropriate practice (birth–age 8), health & safety, nutrition, guidance, observation/assessment, emergent literacy, inclusive practices, lesson planning, and professional conduct.
Course Sequence
9th Grade: Early Childhood Education 1
Childcare rules & regs, safe environments, child development basics, DAP, communication, nutrition; begins DCF modules.
10th Grade: Early Childhood Education 2
Professionalism, observation/recording, infant–toddler care, school-age overview, language environments, family communication.
11th Grade: Early Childhood Education 3
Full lesson planning cycle, emergent literacy, fine/gross motor, creative arts, social-emotional guidance, inclusion, family engagement.
12th Grade: Early Childhood Education 4
Classroom management, curriculum design, mentoring, First Aid/CPR AED, professional portfolio to finalize the ECPC.
Real-World Experience: Little BUCS Preschool (On-Site)
Students complete their practicum in our on-campus preschool, applying what they learn while earning required hours toward credentialing.
Little BUCS Preschool (for families):
- Ages 3–5 (must be potty trained)
- Tuition: $65/week
- Age-appropriate curriculum focusing on whole-child development
- Enroll/Info: Ms. Griselda Perez — griselda@dadeschools.net
Outcomes & Next Steps
Graduates are prepared to work as preschool teachers/childcare workers or continue in education-related college programs. Florida ECPC holders are eligible for a DCF Staff Credential; students may further pursue the national CDA using their compiled portfolio and practicum experience.
Principles of Teaching Overview
The Principles of Teaching program prepares students for careers in education and related fields by combining theory, classroom experience, and guided observation. Students learn instructional methods, classroom management, child and adolescent development, educational technology, and professional ethics while earning 200+ documented field experience hours in PK–12 classrooms.
This program provides a foundation for future educators and offers a pathway into early education, K–12 teaching, and educational support roles. Instruction aligns with Florida’s Department of Education standards for the Education & Training Career Cluster.
8909000-2526 (5)
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Students build a professional portfolio and participate in field experiences that demonstrate mastery of teaching competencies. Program completers are prepared to pursue:
- Florida Education Foundation Pre-Teacher Preparation pathways
- CPR & AED Training (as part of internship safety standards)
- 200 hours of guided observation and field experience in certified classrooms
- Capstone Professional Portfolio Presentation, a culminating demonstration of teaching knowledge and readiness
What You’ll Learn
- The foundations, ethics, and history of American education
- Child and adolescent growth and development
- Learning theories, curriculum design, and instructional strategies
- Classroom management and motivational psychology
- Diversity, inclusion, and exceptional student education
- Educational technology and digital responsibility
- Observation, assessment, and reflective practice
- Professionalism, collaboration, and leadership in education
Course Sequence
9th Grade: Introduction to the Teaching Profession
Explore the field of education—its history, purposes, ethics, and professional standards. Students engage in guided classroom observations, learn about legal and ethical considerations, and begin developing their professional teaching portfolio.
10th Grade: Human Growth and Development
Study human development from birth through adolescence, including the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. Students examine learning theories, cultural and environmental influences, and strategies for supporting exceptional learners.
11th Grade: Foundations of Curriculum and Instruction
Learn to design and deliver instruction aligned with developmental needs and state standards. Coursework includes lesson planning, classroom management, literacy strategies, and the integration of educational technology.
12th Grade: Principles of Teaching Internship
Apply knowledge in real classroom settings under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Students plan and deliver lessons, manage learning environments, and complete a comprehensive teaching portfolio and capstone presentation as their final credential.
Real-World Experience
Students complete a minimum of 200 field hours in local PK–12 classrooms, observing and assisting certified teachers across subjects and grade levels. Internship placements provide authentic opportunities to apply instructional strategies, classroom management, and professional collaboration skills in real-world environments.
8909000-2526 (5)
Portfolio & Capstone
Throughout all four levels, students build a Professional Teaching Portfolio that includes:
- Lesson plans, teaching reflections, and field experience logs
- Research on teaching strategies and educational issues
- Evidence of leadership, community service, and CTSO participation
- Final Capstone Presentation demonstrating teaching readiness and career goals
Career Outlook & Next Steps
Graduates are prepared for careers as teacher assistants, paraprofessionals, or early childhood educators, and are well-positioned to pursue postsecondary degrees in education. Skills gained in this program—leadership, communication, creativity, and professionalism—translate to all fields that involve working with people and fostering learning.