Sanford Health

Pathways to Professional Development

The South Dakota Pathways to Professional Development program is a statewide initiative promoting the recognition of individuals who work in childcare, preschool, Head Start, school-age, and other programs who serve the needs of children and families.

The goal is to support those who actively pursue ongoing educational opportunities and professional commitment to the field.  All childcare providers, educators, trainers, directors, administrators and advocates of children - regardless of educational background - can participate in the program.

The quality of care and education children receive depends on the knowledge and skills of the individuals who care for and educate them.  With this philosophy in mind, the program provides professional support and public recognition of individuals who actively pursue continuing education and demonstrate commitment to working with children and families.

 

Career Lattice:

Participants can choose to participate by meeting the requirements of Levels I through VII of the Career Lattice.  Level I consists of introductory, informal education while Level VII consists of a Master's or Doctoral degree.

 

Trainer Registry:

South Dakota Pathways to Professional Development is based on the philosophy that all children are entitled to receive nurturing care provided by well-trained adults.  The Trainer Registry is a directory designed to enhance the availability of quality adult learning experiences for early childhood and school-age practitioners.

 

Click here for the South Dakota State Website

Click here for the South Dakota Pathways to Professional Development Website

 

Articles:

 

 Forms:

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Professional Training Areas

The following 15 training areas represent the core knowledge and competencies (skills) all practitioners should have in order to provide for the unique developmental needs of the children, youth and families they serve.

Within each of these broad training areas, various class topics can be addressed and easily tracked for those enrolled in the Pathways Career Lattice.

  1. Child growth and development
  2. Child abuse and neglect
  3. Guidance and behavior management
  4. Observing children
  5. Identification and prevention of communicable diseases
  6. Program safety
  7. Nutrition for children
  8. Program management and regulation
  9. Interpersonal communication and relationships
  10. Cultural diversity
  11. Learning environments
  12. Age-appropriate planning
  13. Professionalism
  14. Partnerships with parents
  15. Inclusion of all children

9/16/2008

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