Norwalk High School Students Complete National Head Start Association’s Innovative Early Childhood Education Curriculum

NORWALK, Connecticut — The Academy at the National Head Start Association (NHSA) proudly celebrated the achievements of 10 Norwalk high school students who successfully completed their new CDA Pathway to Purpose curriculum. Named a 2024 Apex Award winner by Training Magazine, this coursework is designed to introduce students to early childhood education through a Head Start lens.

Earning a CDA credential demonstrates educators’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in early childhood education and is required by most states to work in the field. 

To help build a strong pipeline of early childhood professionals throughout the country, The Academy at NHSA, in partnership with Harmony Academy, created a special curriculum just for high school students with access to NHSA’s coursework at no cost. Students gain essential knowledge and hands-on experience in Head Start and Early Head Start or other early childhood classrooms, equipping them with skills that can lead directly to meaningful and impactful careers in early childhood education. It further embeds Harmony’s vision to support healthy relationships and students’ social, emotional, and academic success.

Why It Matters

CDA Pathway to Purpose addresses the critical workforce shortage in early childhood education, one of the fastest-growing fields in the nation. By offering students the opportunity to earn a nationally recognized credential while still in high school, the program helps to close the gap between workforce demand and qualified professionals. 

“Graduates not only gain a pathway to immediate employment but also discover the meaningful impact they can have on their communities by shaping the next generation,” says Dr. Deborah Bergeron, NHSA Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Innovation.

Program Highlights Include:

• Scholarships available at no cost
• Flexible, self-paced coursework with no physical classroom required
• Support with placement in Head Start and Early Head Start programs
• Free books provided to all scholarship recipients
• Accessible to all school systems, including small and rural districts
• Curriculum designed to supplement existing early childhood education courses, leading to CDA eligibility upon graduation

ABOUT HARMONY ACADEMY

Powered by National University, Harmony Academy is redefining education by fostering a holistic approach that resonates with the unique needs of both educators and students. We provide educators with professional learning and curriculum resources supporting healthy relationships both inside and outside the classroom.