Nurturing, Teaching, Growing

Impact the young minds of tomorrow with PCTI’s School of Education / Human Services / Child Development. This popular program gives students access to the world of education and puts a spotlight on developing the skills and strategies necessary for working in a safe and healthy learning environment.

Students acquire working knowledge of the growth and development of children, which empowers them to make a difference in the world. Curriculum studies for the School of Education and Human Services include the physical, social and cognitive development of young children, theories and philosophies of childcare, guidance techniques, effects of proper nutrition, as well as the NJ Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) that govern pre-schools. Students create and implement lessons for young children following the structure and guidelines mandated by the State of NJ. As part of this course of study, students prepare for the national CDA (Child Development Accreditation) certification through Passaic County Community College, which gives them the opportunity to accrue six college credits.

Community service and real-life experience abound for those interested in this influential and inspiring career area. PCTVS is proud to partner with the Passaic County Head Start, Memorial Day Nursery, Gilmore Memorial Nursery and Prospect Park Schools childcare programs. Students enjoy real world classroom experience working beside professional teachers as part of their CDA Accreditation efforts. In addition, they have the opportunity to compete in annual SkillsUSA competitions.

Proficiency is gained in childcare education for future careers as preschool teachers, teacher assistants and childcare providers. Students may also choose to further their education and expand career opportunities as teachers, program directors, child psychologists, social workers, and more. 

Career Pathway

• Elementary School Teacher

• Early Childhood Program Director

• Early Childhood Education Consultant

• Childcare & Teacher Aid

• Counseling Services Provider

• Human Service Worker

• Parent Educator

• Preschool Teacher

• Recreation Leader

• Social Worker

• Special Education Paraprofessional

Comprehensive Education in a Nurturing Environment

Instruction is provided in an educational setting by a highly qualified team of teachers. Research and resource materials – on-site and via the Internet – are available in the high school’s Media Center.

Additionally, Education & Human Services majors have access to the “Passaic County Head Start” which is housed in a comfortable and state-approved pre-school childcare setting on campus. This nurturing environment enhances instruction and compliments PCTI’s program.

“College Connection Program” Earning College Credits in High School

Want to earn college credits before graduating high school? At PCTI you have the opportunity to do just that! Nearly 2 dozen college courses—some specific to career majors and others open to all PCTI students—are offered in affiliations with area colleges and universities! At present, the School of Education & Human Services maintains an agreemen with Passaic County Community College.

College Affiliations

Some of PCTI’s higher education affiliates include: William Paterson University, Seton Hall University, Drexel University, UMDNJ (University of Medicine & Dentistry New Jersey), Berkeley College, Passaic County Community College, NJIT (New Jersey Institute of Technology), Rochester Institute of Technology, FDU and Hudson County Community College.

NOTE: The academic component is taught by highly qualified and dedicated professionals.
Expertise of Faculty: All faculty members are professional teachers and instructors with years of experience. Educators at PCTI are encouraged to continue their training and many have advanced degrees and certificates of specializations.

Certifications

Students graduate with certifications in CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid. Preparation for the national CDA (Child Development Accreditation) Certification, is also part of the course study. Students must accumulate 480 hours and pass the CPR and First Aid certification process before preparation for the CDA begins..

School to Careers Experience

PCTI maintains a very strong and supportive School to Careers program, offering 9th, 10th, and 11th graders the opportunity to “job shadow,” and 11th & 12th graders the chance to put their skills to work at a paid position in the workplace. Hundreds of students participate and hundreds of business leaders support our efforts by employing our students.

Faculty Expertise

Our highly qualified instructors are knowledgeable professionals who guide students through their coursework and training, providing encouragement in a supportive classroom environment.

Opportunities for Growth

Over 80% of all PCTI students continue their education beyond high school through colleges, universities, business schools, and other institutions of higher learning. A number of graduates have become teachers, some of whom have returned to PCTI to educate the next generation of the Bulldog family.