In an effort to combat North Carolina’s pressing child care staffing crisis, the state’s Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has unveiled a strategic partnership with 16 colleges and universities. This collaborative effort aims to launch “Child Care Academies,” which offer expedited training and certification for aspiring child care professionals at no cost. This initiative is financed through the Division of Child Development and Early Education, utilizing a federal Preschool Development Grant.
“North Carolina’s early learning system depends on a strong, well-prepared workforce, and the Child Care Academies are designed to meet that need head on,” stated Michael Leighs, NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Opportunity and Well-Being. “By providing free high-quality training, we’re opening doors for new educators while supporting families and ensuring children across our state have access to safe and nurturing care.”
The Child Care Academies are designed to broaden access to superior early learning programs, enhance workforce development, and fortify economic infrastructure by allowing parents to remain employed. This initiative is in alignment with the recommendations from the NC Task Force on Child Care and Early Education.
Participating Institutions
The Child Care Academy Partners include:
- Appalachian State University
- Bladen Community College
- Central Carolina Community College
- Central Piedmont Community College
- Davidson-Davie Community College
- Durham Technical Community College
- Elizabeth City State University
- Forsyth Technical Community College
- Guilford Technical Community College
- Montgomery Community College
- Nash Community College
- Pitt Community College
- Roanoke-Chowan Community College
- Sandhills Community College
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Wilson Community College
Each partner institution is expected to conduct a minimum of three academies by July 2026. The timing of programs will vary, with some schools having already commenced in October 2025, and others planning to start as early as January 2026. Prospective participants are advised to contact the admissions office of their chosen institution for more information on program availability.
Traditionally, training to become a lead teacher in early childhood education spans several weeks or even months. The Child Care Academies, however, offer a comprehensive curriculum that meets or surpasses state training standards in a potentially shorter timeframe, with program lengths varying by institution.
“Children in early childhood care and education environments need well-prepared teachers to help keep them safe, healthy and learning,” noted Candace Witherspoon, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education. “Child Care Academies quickly and fully prepare teachers to provide quality care and education to children and families in their communities.”
The academies deliver training across multiple formats and counties to ensure accessibility throughout the state, incorporating both virtual and in-person learning opportunities.
The training covers essential areas such as CPR/first aid, health and safety, infant/toddler safe sleep, sudden infant death syndrome, playground safety, and recognizing and responding to child maltreatment suspicions. Participants are also introduced to the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, Environment Rating Scales, and program standards for Pathways to the Stars, the state’s enhanced Quality Rating and Improvement System. Additionally, certification and support for completing the mandatory NCDHHS criminal background checks are provided.
For further details about the Child Care Academies, interested individuals should reach out to one of the 16 selected colleges and universities. To explore training opportunities for a career in early childhood education, contact your local North Carolina Community College.
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