WSCC early childhood eduction program awarded accreditation. 

From left: Chairman of the Board of Trustees Bruce Smith, Interim President Scott Ward, Professor of Early Childhood Education Lisa Morley, and Dean of Occupational Programs Christy Christmas

WSCC early childhood eduction program awarded accreditation. 

VICTORY TOWNSHIP — West Shore Community College’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program has been awarded accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

The accreditation signifies the college demonstrates it adheres to national professional standards for early childhood teacher education. West Shore is one of only seven early childhood programs in Michigan that has received the accreditation.

The accreditation certificate was presented during the September 18, WSCC Board of Trustees meeting.

“NAEYC has always been the leading authority for best practices in early childhood education, and this accreditation attests to our program’s high quality standards in helping students prepare to become competent early childhood educators,” said Professor of Early Childhood Education & Child Development Lisa Morley, who led the accreditation process, which included a comprehensive self-study and on-site evaluation by a NAEYC peer review team.

The ECE program at the college prepares students to work effectively with children and their families in the field of early childhood development and teacher preparation. The curriculum provides students with opportunities to complete observations, assignments and student teaching experiences utilizing area early childhood education centers for preschool children.       

The college’s ECE program currently offers a child development national credential (CDA), a one-year certificate in early childhood education, and an associate of applied arts and science degree.

The college also offers a “3 plus 1” program in partnership with Ferris State University which allows students to complete a bachelor of ECE degree on the WSCC campus. The degree encompasses three years of WSCC classes followed by one year of Ferris classes.

Those interested in learning more about the ECE program may contact Morley at the college. Questions about the WSCC’s application and enrollment process should contact the Student Services Office at (231) 843-5510.