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.
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.
current Pre-Apprenticeship participants
Upcoming 40-Hour Testing Dates
This testing session is reserved for participants enrolled in our Pre-Apprenticeship Program. It is not open to the public or general community testing. All testing is held at the ELC Teacher Training Institute at 9:00 AM.
Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)
For Educators Already Teaching
- 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
STAR Babies
Our free STAR Babies Certification Program is a Community of Practice created for infant and toddler caregivers serving children from birth through age 3 at ELC-contracted sites in Sarasota County.
Through 10 interactive sessions, participants will deepen their understanding of early brain development and strengthen the responsive interactions measured through Infant and Toddler CLASS®. Facilitated by Barbara Papantonakis, Early Learning Career Development Specialist, the program blends in-person meetings with online sessions via Zoom.
Applicants must have at least two years of experience working with infants and toddlers. The next cohort begins Monday, September 28, with sessions held Monday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m.
Year-Round Professional Development
Professional development goes beyond meeting licensing requirements. When early educators strengthen their knowledge and skills, children benefit from more responsive teaching, stronger developmental support, and higher-quality learning environments. Programs may also see greater staff confidence, improved retention, and stronger quality outcomes.
Through our Provider Supports Team, educators can access coaching, classroom observation feedback, credential preparation, ongoing mentoring, career guidance, and a variety of professional development opportunities.
Explore our Training Calendar to find upcoming workshops, courses, and learning opportunities designed to support your professional growth and strengthen your daily practice.
If you are unsure which path fits you best, contact our team. We are here to help you map your professional development journey.