Early Childhood Career Navigation - Colorado Department of Education

Where are you on your Early Childhood Professional Journey?

Just beginning...
Wondering if you are on the correct path.
Well on your way.
You need to go back because you forgot something.
You need to rest.
Just arrived! Now what?

Every career has a set of challenges and different paths to choose.
Sometimes you need assistance finding the path,
and sometimes you just need something to help you finish your journey!

Sign up today with our partners at TEACH Colorado for free access to 1:1 advising, group webinars, multilingual how-to guides, and up to $1,100 in financial aid.

We’re here to help you wherever you are on your path!
Contact us at: ececareernav@cde.state.co.us

Young girl with a backpack smiling and ready to go

Highlights

International Transcript Evaluation for Early Childhood professionals
Educator Career Navigation Office Hours
Do you offer career navigation support to your community? We'd love to have you join the Early Childhood Career Navigation Community of Practice!
Looking for a career in early childhood education? Join the Colorado Virtual Early Childhood Education Job Fair on April 29, 2026! Meet employers from across Colorado, learn about open positions, and apply on the spot. Hosted by TEACH Colorado, CDE, and ECCLA.
- Potential applicants registration
- Employer registration

Paths in Early Childhood

Since Early Childhood lives in two state departments - Colorado Department of Education and Colorado Department of Early Childhood, there can be confusion with the language and requirements to work in different positions and different environments. Here is some basic information to get you started! Download the statewide guide to become an early childhood (in six languages!).

Colorado Department of Early Childhood Qualifications

The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) qualifies professionals to work in community-based programs* and some public preschools.

There are many pathways for different roles. You will find pathways for Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) and other ECE roles on the CDEC qualifications page.

*Community-based programs include licensed childcare and preschools in homes or centers. May qualify you to work in some public preschools, depending on district requirements.