Community Services - LEAP CO-OP+ Leorain Pathways

LEAP's Pathway to Early Childhood Careers

Every LEAP course is designed to combine online coursework, hybrid hub learning in Utah community centers, and on-site practicum with childcare & early intervention.

Students don’t just sit in a classroom—they earn while they learn as assistant teachers, mentors, and childcare leaders. Each course counts toward CDA (Child Development Associate) or Early Childhood Certifications, preparing learners for long-term success.

Level A: Practicum for CDA

Who it’s for: Students preparing for the national Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™.

What it includes:

480 hours of supervised practicum in LEAP Care Children’s Centers.
Placement as an assistant teacher with mentoring from certified educators.
Observation classrooms focused on early intervention, trauma-informed practice, and multilingual learning.
Real-time competency feedback through GoReact assessments.
Completion portfolio aligned to CDA standards.

Outcome: Students graduate ready to apply for their CDA and continue into Levels 1–6 Caregiving Essentials.

Levels 1–6: Caregiving Essentials (Early Childhood Certifications)

LEAP’s Caregiving Essentials series builds knowledge and skills step by step, from foundations to advanced leadership in early education.

Level 1: Foundations of Caregiving

CPR/First Aid, OSHA Safety, Child Abuse Prevention.
Daily documentation + person-centered planning.

Level 2: Inclusive Care & Early Childhood Development

Supporting multilingual learners.
Developmental screenings + early intervention strategies.

Level 3: Trauma-Informed & Behavioral Supports

Positive behavior support plans.
Crisis prevention and intervention skills.

Level 4: Family Partnerships & Community Engagement

Working with newcomer and refugee families.
Parent leadership and co-learning.

Level 5: Business & Program Management

Staff hiring/retention, subsidy programs, pricing, and compliance.
(Aligned with S.B. 264: Child Care Center Business Management Certificate at USU.)

Level 6: Leadership in Early Education

Preparing for director roles in childcare centers.
Coaching assistant teachers and building sustainable CO-OP hubs.

Outcome: Graduates earn stackable certifications, advance toward associate or bachelor’s degrees, and qualify for director-level leadership positions.

Why Choose LEAP Courses?

Childcare Provided: Every course includes on-site early education childcare with early
intervention.
Earn While You Learn: Students are paid for assistant teaching roles while earning
certifications.
Stackable Pathways: Levels A + 1–6 connect to First Credential Program (H.B.
260) and Talent Connect co-op placements (S.B. 162).
Hybrid Flexibility: Online & in-person hybrid delivery at Utah community centers.

Schedule