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Depending on the program you choose, you may find work as an in-home childcare provider, a childcare or preschool aid, preschool teacher, or childcare center administrator.

Preschool and childcare workers help supervise and care for infants and young children. Duties may include developing and implementing appropriate curriculum, nurturing social skills and emotional development, providing for the physical well-being of children, supporting and educating parents, collaborating with fellow teachers and staff, and managing the business of providing child services.

Certificate graduates usually work under the supervision of a teacher or a director. They may:

• Assist in a preschool program
• Assist in a Head Start/ECEAP program
• Work as a childcare provider in a center or home

Associate degree graduates are often employed as lead teachers or administrators in early learning programs. They may:

• Direct or teach in a preschool program
• Teach in a Head Start/ECEAP program
• Operate or work in a childcare facility
• Care for and teach children aged birth to eight years old in a variety of settings.

Average wages in Whatcom County are $15.54/hour for preschool teachers and $22.68 for preschool and childcare center administrators. (Source: Washington Employment Security Department, October 2022)

Employers

Local employers of recent program graduates include:

• A Child's Life Learning Center
• Bellingham Childcare & Learning Center
• Blaine School District
• Blossom Childcare and Learning Center
• Early Learning and Family Services
• Gabriel's Art Kids
• Gardenview Montesorri
• Hillcrest Kids
• Kids' World
• Lynden School District
• Meridian School District
• Opportunity Council
• Pauli's Playschool
• Promise Day Care
• Whatcom Center for Early Learning
• YMCA