NAEYC accreditation opens doors for students, faculty
This summer, the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs granted accreditation for the Early Childhood Education (ECE) associate degree program at Nashua Community College (NCC).
NCC’s ECE program has substantially met the requirements of the NAEYC Higher Education Accreditation Standards A-F, including adequate demonstration of candidate proficiency in the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators. The accreditation covers July 2026 through July 2033.
Dr. Lisa Furman, the ECE Program Coordinator at NCC, said that NAEYC Accreditation sets a standard of excellence for early childhood degree programs. “We are honored to demonstrate that our program meets this standard and to be recognized for our commitment to preparing our students with the knowledge, skills, and experience required of early childhood educators. We are dedicated to building the early childhood profession and supporting the young children, families, and the communities we serve.”
“We offer many hands-on opportunities for students to gain experience working with children, and our program includes ways for teachers to serve as advocates for children and families. The accreditation also allows us to participate in the national network for ECE resources, best practices, professional development, and advocacy.”
About Early Childhood Education at NCC
NCC offers stackable certificates that lead to the ECE associate degree, including the Associate and Lead Teacher certificates. Students can take courses in-person, online, or at our ECE satellite location at the Merrimack YMCA.
In Fall 2023, NCC partnered with the Merrimack YMCA and established an ECE satellite location offering one ECE course per semester. This has led to 19 students earning certificates and associate degrees. Students – YMCA members and non-members – are also welcome to drop their children off at the YMCA Kid Stop during class for free childcare. “The classes at the YMCA have been a great bridge to college,” said Professor Furman.
Currently, New Hampshire has a shortage of childcare teachers and childcare availability. NCC is committed to supporting our community and educating our childcare workforce.
Scholarships are available through the TEACH NH Scholarship Program. The scholarship program supports the cost of tuition and books, offers paid release time from work for scholarship recipients, and a bonus upon completing 9-12 credits within 12 months. For more information and to see if you qualify, visit TEACH NH Scholarship.
ECE Scholarships may be available to offset educational expenses as you complete your early childhood education degree and/or certificates. Visit the CCSNH Scholarship website to see if you qualify.