ASPIRE Teacher Training Institute
Free Professional Development for Educators
You chose this work because it matters. You shape young minds. You support families. You build foundations that last a lifetime.
You deserve a clear, affordable path to career growth. The ELC’s ASPIRE Teacher Training Institute brings together all of the Coalition’s professional development opportunities under one umbrella. It’s designed for early education professionals who want to advance, earn credentials, and build lasting careers in early childhood education.
ASPIRE provides structured training programs that combine coursework, mentoring, and workshops that cater to real classroom experiences.
Whether you are new to the field or already working in a child care setting, there is a place for you.
We believe that:
- You should not have to take on debt to grow your career.
You should not have to navigate confusing systems alone.
You deserve a pathway that makes sense.
That’s why ASPIRE is more than a training series. It’s a step-by-step system for advancing your career.
Build Your Career Through Real-World Learning
The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County is proud to offer a one-of-a-kind, state-recognized, tuition-free, comprehensive training opportunity with two structured tracks:
- Pre-Apprenticeship (for new educators)
Registered Apprenticeship (for established educators pursuing a teacher credential)
Much like a college, our pioneering program delivers a structured pathway to professional success, but with a unique twist: we do it all in-house at the ELC. You don’t have to deal with university enrollment or worry about student loans. Instead, our early childhood specialists, with their deep understanding of the field, have designed this free program to meet the unique needs of each participant, even honoring active IEPs.
Programs are structured to meet Florida training standards and requirements while strengthening real classroom practice in diverse learning environments.
Both tracks are designed to support your professional development and long-term success as you earn credentials and build upon new skills.
Pre-Apprenticeship
For Individuals Entering the Field
The Pre-Apprenticeship track is a great option for recent high-school graduates or career changers interested in child development, social work, or education. No experience is required.
The Pre-Apprenticeship track is a great option for recent high-school graduates or career changers interested in child development, social work, or education. No experience is required.
This program is designed to help you confidently step into a classroom with the foundational knowledge you need. Through Pre-Apprenticeship, you will:
- Complete Florida’s required DCF 40-hour introductory child care courses
- Work through flexible, virtual coursework at your own pace
- Receive one-on-one mentoring and guidance
- Participate in workshops on professionalism and interviewing skills
- Explore long-term career pathways in early childhood education
- Access job placement assistance
Some participants may qualify for paid on-the-job training and internship opportunities. This hands-on model helps you earn money and gain experience while completing coursework.
This program is about preparation and confidence. You’ll be prepared for future enrollment in a registered apprenticeship program or an early childhood education certificate program through a technical college. And, you won’t just meet requirements, you’ll understand the why behind the work.
Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)
For Educators Already Teaching
If you are currently working in a classroom and ready to earn your professional credential, this track is designed for you.
The Registered Apprenticeship Program allows you to earn while you learn. You’ll continue working while completing structured coursework and receiving on-site coaching. Through RAP, you will:
- Pursue the Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC)
- Complete required coursework
- Receive on-the-job training and on-site mentoring
- Earn credit for both work hours and training hours
- Strengthen classroom practice with guided support
Upon completion, participants earn college credit (9 credits) that can be applied toward a degree in early childhood education at the State College of Florida. You can also continue your education through programs that accept the Florida T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship.
This is not just training. It is career-building.
Education Pathways
Early childhood education offers more than one role. It offers a career path.
With continued education, you can progress through:
Career outcomes may include:
Your experience in early learning can also support roles in advocacy, policy, or social work. The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County can help you explore next steps and identify scholarship opportunities that align with your goals.
Year-Round Professional Development
The benefits of professional development go beyond meeting licensing requirements. When early educators strengthen their skills, children benefit from improved learning environments and stronger support in child development. Programs also see improved staff retention and higher quality ratings.
Professional development through our Provider Supports Team includes structured coaching, classroom observation feedback, credential preparation, ongoing mentoring, and career advising.
Participants build confidence while meeting state training standards and improving daily practice.
Training Calendar & CLASS Support
Professional growth should be easy to access and easy to plan. The ELC Training Calendar makes it easy to plan your learning journey.
Offerings include:
- In-person and virtual workshops with diverse topics
- Credential preparation
- CLASS® support sessions
- Specialized classroom strategy sessions
- Quality improvement seminars
Each listing clearly outlines time commitments, format, and credit eligibility so you can choose what best fits your goals and schedule.
If you are unsure which path fits you best, contact our team. We are here to help you map your professional development journey.