General Questions

Where do I mail my package?

For Regular Grading: NAC Test and Praxis, NAC Renewal Paperwork, or CDA Fast Track Portfolio Copy and Paperwork, should be mailed to the address at the bottom of the first page of your praxis or portfolio respectively. Packages arriving after 8/31/22 are NOT to be mailed to the Arizona address only mail to the Florida address provided. Packages mailed to the Arizona address will experience extreme delays and possible additional fees. 

For Expedited Grading: Follow all expedited grading instructions provided when you registered for this service. 

Where can I find the location of the event I am attending?

All event locations are found on the Calendar.

What If I am unable to attend the event I am registered for?

Registration fees are non-refundable.  If it is more than 4 weeks before the event, you may email our offices to request to be switched to another event or Distance Learning.  If it is within 4 weeks of the event you are registered for, a $75 switch fee will apply.  You MUST call the main office to pay the switch fee.

Switches must be made before the class begins that you are currently registered for or the registration is forfeited.  

Please include the following in all emails to the office 

Name:
Phone Number:
Event you are registered for:
Your request or question:







What do I need to bring with me to class?

You will need a photocopy of your drivers license for all courses.  

For NAC Test and Praxis Lab/Tutoring, you will receive an email with a list of suggested documentation within 24-48 business hours of registereing. 

For the CDA Fast Track course, you will recieve a list of things we suggest to bring. 

Will I receive a confirmation letter?

If you register at least three weeks prior to any scheduled course, you will receive a confirmation letter in the mail within 2-3 weeks of the event. Additionally, if you are registered for the CDA Fast Track course, you will also receive a confirmation letter by email. 

Event information and schedules can be accessed anytime on the Calendar Here.

What is the dress code for the class/weekend?

There is not a dresscode for the weekend. We suggest that you dress comfortably. Also keep in mind it is normal for most meeting rooms to run cool, so we suggest dressing warm. 

How can I request a copy of my receipt?

Email our main office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Include the following in your request:

1.  Your name and the name on the credit card used (if different than yours)
2.  Last 4 digits of credit card used
3.  What was the receipt for
4. A fax number or mailing address where the copy needs to be sent to. 

All requests following the above format will be processed within 24-48 hours during regular business days.  Failure to include pertinent details needed to process the request can result in the delay of your request being completed.

What is the NAC Praxis?

The Praxis is divided up into 20 documentation, evaluation and/or related activities and 4 additional extra credit documentation, evaulation, and/or related activities.  Each unit has 2 Praxis items attached to it and each of the praxis items are rated at 1.25 hours/.125 CEUs based on the estimated and previously documented amount of time that those activities will take. The entire praxis is worth 25 hours of the 45 hour NAC course. Students have up to 6 months to complete the praxis. The praxis is open-book. 

     

Optional Praxis Tutoring Session

An optional Praxis Tutoring Session is also provided to help participants be prepared for their Praxis prior to arriving. The Tutoring Session will also help them understand and get immediate help with the activities of their praxis. Participants who sign up for this session will be given a pre-conference documentation activity list that they will be able to work on prior to coming to event. At the event, they will have an opportunity to discuss their Praxis directly with their assigned mentor (all participants are assigned a mentor but customarily do not have access to the Mentor until days or weeks after the event is over.) The session can streamline the process of completing the Praxis by allowing participants to attend the sessions with a pre-understanding of the Praxis activities. This enables them to understand the necessary components prior to the discussion during the daily sessions and allows them to work on them during breaks and in the evenings. This is a great option for participants who are under a time crunch for receiving their NAC or who are busy working adults. This Tutoring Session is modeled after seminar based accelerated college and Master’s level programs.

Register for Tutoring Here

What Is the Test and Praxis Lab/Tutoring?

Tutoring is an option that is available for the NAC course. It provides students with additional help on the test and praxis. Tutoring is offered at all of the live events on Saturday and Sunday Evenings after class. Students who pre-register for tutoring and come prepared are usually able to finish their Test and Praxis during the weekend and leave having earned your certificate. Tutoring is also offered through Distance Learning. 

Click Here To Register For Tutoring

**Distance Tutoring will not be available 8/15/23-9/06/23. Persons who register for or who are registered for Distance Tutoring will resume the process on 9/06/23. 

My deadline is coming up and I need more time, can I get an extension?

If you need additional time to completeing your paperwork you can file for an extension on the website prior to your due date. 

 

Offering the opportunity for extension is at our discretion.  It is at the discretion of the instructor whether to offer this opportunity.  The instructor may decide not to offer this opportunity if the student has been uncooperative, has been found to have lied or cheated during their course work, has not followed instructions or any other situation which causes us to believe that the individual is not going to be successful even after this opportunity is given.  The instructor may decide to require attendance at a live event to receive any of these services based on what we deem is best to enable us to help the student to be successful. 

I am watching the videos online for my course and I can't continue on to the next video. How can I advance to the next video?

This sometimes happens when your computer stops recording your progress, however there is an easy fix. First clear your cache, replay the video, then continue to the next video. 

In other words:

1. Clear your browser history. 

2. Replay the video. 

3. Continue to the next video. 

How long will it take for my NAC Test/Praxis to be graded?

Regular grading takes 2-3 weeks from when a file arrives and is checked into the office. Expedited grading is available and takes 24-48 hours for grading once a file arrives and is checked into the office.  Registration for Expedited grading

**Expedited Grading will not be available 8/15/23-9/06/23. Persons who register for or who are registered for Expedited Grading will resume the process on 9/06/23.  

 

How can I register for expedited grading?

You can register for expedited grading here

Expedited Grading Instructions:
1. Register for Expedited Grading
2. Print Receipt
3. Place Your Receipt Inside your package
4. Write "Expedited Grading" on the outside of your package. 
5. Call our office at (602) 476-1422 to find out what address to mail your package to.  (The shipping address will be given based on when you estimate it will arrive.)
6. Mail your package and get a tracking number. Keep that tracking number for your records. 
7. Be patient and allow the office to process your package. Contacting the office before the allotted amount of time will delay the process. 

 

If for some reason you mailed your package before registering for expedited grading please call to request alternative instructions. 

 **Distance Tutoring will not be available 8/15/23-9/06/23. Persons who register for or who are registered for Distance Tutoring will resume the process on 9/06/23. 

 

Can I receive college credit for completing my NICCM NAC?

Yes you can recieve college credits for completeing the NICCM NAC. Contact the office or see your NAC course binder for details. 

How do I print my UAF Transcript?

Obtaining your Unofficial Transcripts 

 Please do this from a computer

1. You must first set up an account

Below are the instructions to set up your account with University of Alaska at ELMO: Easy Login Maintenance Option. You must do this in order to login to UAONLINE to obtain your unofficialtranscript. https://elmo.alaska.edu/

a. Click on Lookup Username/ID

b.To verify your identity, fill in the requested information and then click on “Recover Username”

2. Login to UAONLINE:

Below are instructions for obtaining your unofficial transcript via UAOnline https://www.alaska.edu/uaonline/

a. Login using your UA username and password.

Once you're logged into UAOnline, you can access your unofficial transcript by:

  1. Clicking on the Student Services & Account Information tab

  2. Then, click on Student Records

  3. Next, click on Academic Transcript

  4. Click on Submit

  5. Click on the Print Icon to print off your Unofficial Transcript

Issues? Please contact:

David Puterbaugh
CTC Student Services
UAF Community & Technical College 907-455-2800

 
Megan Huerd
CTC Student Services
UAF Community & Technical College 907-455-2800

When will my UAF transcript be available?

In Florida DCF requires a credit to be issued by a university for the “Overview of Childcare Management Course” and the Florida Director Credential. We have partnered with UAF to offer credit for this class and issue transcripts. UAF issues transcripts once a month. Your paperwork and grades are submitted to UAF at the end of each session. This process takes about 1-3 weeks from the session end date.  

 
Session End Date

Submitted to UAF

If Mailing - Must Arrive Before

Expect My Certificate

12/10/23

12/11/23

11/21/23

1/05/24

1/21/24

1/22/24

1/10/24

2/16/24

1/28/24

1/29/24

1/10/24

2/23/24

2/25/24

2/26/24

1/31/24

3/22/24

3/24/24

3/25/24

2/28/24

4/19/23

4/21/24

4/22/24

4/10/24

5/17/24

4/28/24

4/29/24

4/10/24

5/24/24

5/26/24

5/27/24

5/07/24

6/21/24

6/23/24

6/24/24

6/12/24

7/19/24

6/30/24

7/01/24

6/12/24

7/26/24

7/28/24

7/29/24

7/17/24

8/23/24




NICCM will post on our Facebook page each month when UAF transcripts are available. 

* Registering for Expedited grading does not change the date that paperwork is submitted to UAF. If you are considering expedited grading, call the office to see what they suggest.

*Contacting the NICCM or UAF prior to the expected certificate/transcript date will delay your certificate/transcript. 


When I pass my course how will I be notified?

Once your paperwork is graded and a passing grade is received, certificates are processed within 24-48 business hours. Once issued, your certificate will be mailed to the business address listed on your Test/Praxis First Page or Portfolio First Page, unless otherwise requested on that form.

NOTE: If you are from a state that requires a UAF Transcript please allow extra time for your transcript to be issued. Use your Tracking number and consult your "peach sheet" to see when your certificate and transript will be available. Certificates are mailed the same day the transcript becomes available from UAF. 

 

POLICY CHANGE: Certificates will no longer be faxed only mailed. 

What if I don't pass my course?

We are sure if you work dilligently and follow instructions you will do great, However if you dont pass you can file for re-testing here. 

Re-Testing Fee

$75.00 NAC or $100 for CDA Fast Track

 

Re-testing and Reprocessing Policy: Re-testing and reprocessing of incomplete paperwork is a courtesy offered by our organization and not a right held by the student. Students are required to do their own work, follow instructions, submit complete paperwork and any additional requirements of the course including receiving a passing grade per the course description.

Offering the opportunity for re-testing or resubmission is at our discretion.  It is at the discretion of the instructor whether to offer this opportunity.  The instructor may decide not to offer this opportunity if the student has been uncooperative, has been found to have lied or cheated during their course work, has not followed instructions or any other situation which causes us to believe that the individual is not going to be successful even after this opportunity is given.  The instructor may decide to require attendance at a live event to receive any of these services based on what we deem is best to enable us to help the student to be successful. 

When a student registers for re-testing they are provided with a list of what is incorrect and a deadline to re-submit. The student can make corrections on the inccorect items and resubmit fo improve the origonal score. 

I lost my certificate. How can I get another copy?

You can order a replacement certificate here. 

***NICCM can issue replacement certificates for any certificate issued by NICCM since 2005. Certificates can take between 3-7 days to be issued, depending on the certificate circumstance. 

 

I am renewing my credential. How long will it take for my certificate to be processed?

Regular grading takes 2-3 weeks from when a file arrives and is checked into the office. 

Expedited grading is available and takes 24-48 business hours for grading once a file arrives and is checked into the office. Once a passing grade is received, renewing certificates are issued within 24-48 business hours. Registration for Expedited grading.

 

Incompete renewal paperwork received by our office will be returned by mail to be completed and returned to NICCM. 

 

 

How can I check on the status of my paperwork?

1.Track your package with your tracking number to determine the date of delivery. Your package is typically checked into the grader’s office within the next business day.

2.Wait the maximum amount of time for grading (Regular grading takes 2-3 weeks from the office check in date, and Expedited grading is 24-48 business hours.)

3.Watch the mail and fax which you included on your copy of the “First Page of the Test”.  Certificates are sent to the business address listed on the "FIrst Page of the Praxis/Test or Portfolio unless otherwise requested on the same form. 

If it has been longer than 4 weeks since your packet arrived in our office, you can email the office with your tracking number and the information that it has been more than 3 weeks since it arrived and ask for a certificate status.

When contacting the office to inquire, please email a request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Request should include:

1.     Name

2.     Phone number

3.     Course type

4.     Tracking number

Include details that it has been more than 3 weeks and a request for certificate status. 

Does NICCM allow Collaboration on the NAC Praxis?

Yes, NICCM does allow collaboration as long as it is pre-approved by the instructor and is referenced on the praxis question in which the collaboration took place.  There should be a clear and distinct difference between the each praxis project.

NICCM encourages collaboration and due to our associations with state governments and our high standards of accountability we must maintain a commitment to integrity in all of our students and participants.  Therefore cheating cannot be tolerated.


What is the definition of Collaboration?


Collaboration is working with another or receiving assistance from someone (e.g., a classmate, friend, or parent, whether in person or by electronic media) to complete course work for a grade. Collaboration can include:


Ø
  Having someone else collect your documentation, collate your praxis or do internet research to find documentation or support that will be used to answer a question.


Ø
  Jointly working on an activity or working to answer a question through brainstorming or reminding each other of specific issues discussed during one of the sessions or units. 


Ø
  Having someone else help to rewrite a specific answer through re-wording the thoughts and ideas already established by the original participant.


Ø
  Sharing resources or documentation for an activity or to answer a question.  In such a case the support should be listed in the Praxis.


Ø
  Working in a group on a Praxis assignment.


Ø
  Checking answers with others.


Ø
  Sometimes collaboration may be permitted, other times it is not. 

What are the "Rules of Collaboration"?

Under the basic and general Codes of Academic Conduct, all work submitted for a grade must be the student’s own original, independent work, unless the instructor permits collaboration, use of sources, or outside assistance.

Ø  If working with others or receiving assistance is allowed, any help or collaboration must be given credit and cited.


Ø  Students must comply with the course rules, and may only work together, or receive help, to the extent allowed by the instructor.


Ø  If unsure about the limits, students must seek the instructor’s permission before working with one another.


Ø  Even if the instructor permits collaboration, it is never ethical to copy someone’s work or let them copy yours.

Ø  If your instructor asks whether you worked with anyone on an assignment, always tell the truth.


Ø  Failure to notify the instructor in advance in the praxis and/or when initially asked by the instructor is an immediate violation of the code.


What are the specific instructions of Collaboration set by NICCM’s Code of Conduct?


In his instructions, the instructor allows collaboration within these guidelines:

Ø  They were in the tutoring session at the same time.


Ø  The instructor was available during the time the collaboration was taking place.


Ø  The participants were open and honest about who they were collaborating with and where.


Ø  Some of the answers may be similar, should be in each participant’s words and should “sound” like that participant.  This specifically relates to items of opinion.  No two people will have identical opinions on any issue.


Ø  The participants was actively involved in all the work that was taking place.

Ø  Both participants were enrolled in the course at the time that the callaboration took place.

Ø  The participants list the source of all of their help on each answer in which they received help/support.


Ø  The participant does not “COPY” word for word another participants. answers.


Ø  The answers are in the participant’s own words and should represent their opinions. 


Example: In a Tutoring session, students are allowed to discuss “general concepts,” but all work actually submitted must be “individual work.” Specifically if four students work together in a group, since each of them writes part of the answer(s). Have they broken the rule against unauthorized collaboration? No, “Individual work” means that students must write their own answers. Although portions of the answers submitted by each student were written by the other students – as long as these four wrote all their own answers as assigned it would be allowed as collaboration.  In this case the instructor gave them this permission and it was considered a part of the tutoring session.

Why limit or prohibit collaboration?


Ø Unauthorized collaboration misrepresents joint work as the work of an individual.

Ø  Unauthorized collaboration gives those who break the rules an unjust advantage and creates unfair competition.


Ø  Those who always work with others are unaware of gaps in their own knowledge and skills, and do not learn all they can or should from their assignments.


Ø  Students are held accountable for understanding and following class rules — and must ask questions if they are unsure!


Conclusion


Although new technologies and communications media make unauthorized collaboration easier than ever, it can be detected. Some students who break the rules might not get caught this time – but next time they will. Unauthorized collaboration is unfair and undermines the educational goals of the Institute. If you have questions about course rules, talk to your instructor. 

If you calaborate and do not follow ALL the Rules of Calaboration you are guilty of cheating. 

But other students do it...


Students referred for unauthorized collaboration sometimes say they didn't know they were breaking the rules (stating, for example, “I didn’t copy, I worked with a group;” “I’ve seen other students doing homework together;” or “I tried to solve the problems by myself and just checked my answers with a friend”). Remember, students must know and follow the standards set by customary rules of conduct. If others break those rules, it doesn’t justify unfair or dishonest conduct: the Code of Academic Conduct requires that students report the misconduct to their instructor or the registrars office.


Why can’t I ignore the rules...


Some students disregard rules against collaboration because they think they learn more from working with others, because they don’t like the restrictions, because they have been permitted to work in groups in other classes and are used to doing so, or because they get frustrated when they can’t figure out the answer. Students may NOT ignore the course rules for these reasons, nor can they avoid responsibility by saying they never knew there was a rule against working together – ignorance is not a defense. 

If you calaborate and do not follow ALL the "Rules of Calaboration" you are guilty of cheating.


For assistance regarding these issues, please call NICCM at 602-476-1422. 

What is NICCM’s Code of Ethics?

Code of Conduct

NICCM (The National Institute of Child Care Management) Is an institute of higher learning and as such has a basic “Code of Conduct” to maintain the integrity of the certificates, training credit and credentials rewarded by the institute.  Violating any part of this code is grounds for expulsion from any or all programs. 

Participants must follow the “Rules of Collaboration” whenever collaborating with another student.   Ignoring, being unaware of, violating or refusing/failing to follow these “Rules of Collaboration” are immediate grounds for expulsion from the program.

Participants may not cheat in any way by any definition including those listed under the “Rules of Collaboration” including plagiarism in any form.  

Participants must take responsibility for their own course and must contact NICCM on their own behalf.  It is not acceptable to have someone else contact NICCM about your course. This includes the person who might have paid for your course. The course and any credit or credentials received belong to the participant and therefore the responsibility for all communication concerning said course work or credit is the responsibility of the participant as well.   In the case of a participant needing the help of a translator, the participant must be the one leading the conversation and the translator may only assist in translating. 

Participants must follow all the rules of the course.  This includes any rules that apply including but not limited to:  rules regarding arrival and attendance of a live event including sign-in participation, course completion, test and praxis Instructions, tutoring Instructions, all rules that apply to distance learning students, rules set by any college or university with which the course is associated, rules set by any association or organization with which the course is associated, rules specific to the state or region where you are being credentialed, and rules regarding submission of your test and praxis or portfolio by mail. 

Participants must take responsability for arriving for their course prepared. It is the responsabity of the student to educate themselves about the course requirements and options of their course and to arrive prepared for class. Failure to come prepared can result in being reschedulded. A Participants refusal to take responsability for arriving unprepared will result in becoming inelligible to continue. 

Participant must be truthful.  A participant may not lie to an NICCM representative about anything related to their course, registration, or any above rules of the course. NICCM defines lying as the following but not necessarily limited to: a) Making an untrue statement with intent to deceive, b) To create a false or misleading impression, c) Intentional omission of the truth to create an alternate reality, d) An assertion of something known or believed by the speaker or writer to be untrue with intent to deceive,  e) an untrue or inaccurate statement that may or may not be believed by the speaker or writer.

Participants may not lend or give copy-written materials including printed or video materials to non-enrolled individuals or organizations. 

Participants must follow the chain of communication and workflow of NICCM organizational structure in all course work and correspondence whether verbal or written.  Refusal to follow this chain of communication/workflow or refusal to cooperate with any member of our team is cause for immediate explosion.  All team members of NICCM have the authority to make the final decision concerning any issue with which they have been tasked.  Refusal to accept the decision stated by a team member and/or administration of set rules or policies and/or requesting to speak to someone else is immediate grounds for expulsion.

Individuals must speak to NICCM Team members in a professional manner.  All conversations in which participants are slanderous, (accusations of dishonesty or lying) and/or verbally abusive toward the team member, will constitute immediate grounds for expulsion.

Whenever a participant is expelled from any program, they are ineligible for any type of refund, discount or credit for course work, registrations or any fees paid during the course of that training.  The act of violating the “Code of Conduct” is an act of deception whether pre-meditated or incidental and the participant’s actions have caused the action of expulsion which in no way is the fault of NICCM or it’s instructors or team members.

How will I be notified if I pass?

Once your Test/Praxis or Portfolio copy has been sent and arrives in our office it can then be graded. Be sure to track your package to confirm it has arrived in our office. Regular grading takes 2-3 weeks and Expedited grading takes 24-48 hours. Once your paperwork has been processed it will be entered as Pass, Incomplete, or on the rare occasion a Fail. 

PASS: When you receive a passing grade your certificate will be mailed to the business address listed on the first page of your Praxis or Portfolio, unless otherwise requested in the "side margin" of the same form. 

INCOMPLETE NAC or CDA: You will receive an email with a list of items to complete and send in for reprocessing. 

INCOMPLETE NAC RENEWAL: Your paperwork will be mailed back to you for completion. 

FAIL: You will receive a call from your instructor and details on re-testing if available. 

 

Re-testing and Reprocessing Policy: Re-testing and reprocessing of incomplete paperwork is a courtesy offered by our organization and not a right held by the student. Students are required to do their own work, follow instructions, submit complete paperwork and any additional requirements of the course including receiving a passing grade per the course description.

Offering the opportunity for re-testing or resubmission is at our discretion.  It is at the discretion of the instructor whether to offer this opportunity.  The instructor may decide not to offer this opportunity if the student has been uncooperative, has been found to have lied or cheated during their course work, has not followed instructions or any other situation which causes us to believe that the individual is not going to be successful even after this opportunity is given.  The instructor may decide to require attendance at a live event to receive any of these services based on what we deem is best to enable us to help the student to be successful. 

How do I submit a Formal Request to NICCM?

Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to submit a formal request. Please include the following information in your email and use the following format. 

Name:
Phone number:
Location/Date OR Distance of class you are CURRENTLY registered in:

Course Type:
Your request:

Example 1:
Name: John Davis
Phone number: (123) 456-7890
Location/Date or Distance of class you are CURRENTLY registered in: Distance Learning

Course Type: NAC tutoring
Your request: I would like to switch my distance Tutoring to the class in Orlando on 7/22-24/22. 


Example 2:
Name: Emily Rodriquez
Phone number: (123) 456-7890
Location/Date or Distance of class you are CURRENTLY registered in: Distance Learning

Course Type: NAC with tutoring
Your request: I would like to switch my distance registration for NAC and Tutoring to the class in Orlando on 4/18-20/20. 








Texas

How do I get my Texas Director Credential (Director Certificate)?

Once you become qualified as a Director and licensing has determined that you have met the minimum standard qualifications for a licensed primary caregiver they will issue a Licensing Child-Care Director's Certificate. 


A common way to become Director qualified in Texas is to earn a Texas Director Credential. You can earn this credential by taking an approved Texas Director Credential course

NICCM’s National Administrative Credential (NAC) is a National Director Credential and an approved Texas Director Credential. The National Administrative Credential course is offered through live two-and-a-half-day events or through a Distance Learning Program online. Live events are offered every month around the state of Texas and Nationally.

What are the Texas Director Credential Requirements?

A common way to become director qualified in Texas is to have a Texas Director Credential. In order to earn a Texas Director Credential you must take a pre-approved course.

NICCM’s National Administrative Credential is a National Director Credential and an approved Texas Director Credential. The National Administrative Credential course is offered through live 2 and a half day events or through a Distance Learning Program on DVD. Live events are offered every month around the state of Texas and Nationally.

How do I become qualified as a Child Care Director in Texas?

According to Texas Child Care Regulations the director of a child-care center licensed for 13 or more children must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and meet an approved combination of education and experience. One of these combinations is a Day-Care Administrators Credential and at least 2 years experience in a licensed child care center. NICCM offers the National Administrative Credential (NAC). This is an approved Day-Care Administrators Credential for the State of Texas as well as being a National Credential.

Minimum Standards for Child-Care Centers

§746.1017 What qualifications must the director of my child-care center licensed for 12 or fewer children meet?

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this division, the director of a child-care center licensed for 12 or fewer children must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and meet one of the following combinations of education and experience, as defined in §746.1021 of this title (relating to What constitutes experience in a licensed child-care center, or in a licensed or registered child-care home?):

Education Experience
(1) A bachelor’s degree with 12 college credit hours in child development and six college credit hours in business management, and at least one year of experience in a licensed child-care center;
(2) An associate’s of applied science degree in child development or a closely related field with six college credit hours in child development and six college credit hours in business management. A “closely related field” is any educational instruction pertaining to the growth, development, physical or mental care, or education of children ages birth through 13 years, and at least two years of experience in a licensed child- care center;
(3) Sixty college credit hours with nine college credit hours in child development and six college credit hours in business management, and at least two years of experience in a licensed child- care center;
(4) A child-care administrator’s certificate from a community college with at least 15 college credit hours in child development and three college credit hours in business management, and at least two years of experience in a licensed child- care center;
(5) A Child Development Associate credential or Certified Child-Care Professional credential with six college credit hours in business management, and at least two years of experience in a licensed child- care center;
(6) A day-care administrator’s credential issued by a professional organization or educational institution and approved by Licensing based on criteria specified in Subchapter P of Chapter 745 of this title, (relating to Day-Care Administrator’s Credential Program), and at least two years of experience in a licensed child-care center; or
(7) Nine college credit hours in child development and nine college credit hours in business management, and at least three years of experience in a licensed child-care center.

Do I have to RENEW my Texas Director Credential?

Yes, In-order remain Texas Director Certified Texas Child Care Regulations require that Director Credentials are renewed on a periodic basis. Each Director Credential Program sets it’s own requirements for renewal. Some credentials have to be renewed every year and others every 2 years.

NICCM’s Texas Director Credential renewal process is simple. The National Administrative Credential is a 2 year renewable Credential. There is no fee for renewal. A current credential holder only needs to meet the following requirements for renewal and submit their application.

  1. Notify NICCM of any changes in job position, employer or contact information.
  2. Show proof that you have met your states training requirement for each year, with at least 10 hours of training having been received from NICCM during the 2 you have been credentialed.
  3. Complete renewal paperwork included the annual survey.
or

How do I RENEW my Texas Director Credential?

A current credential holder only needs to meet the following requirements for renewal and submit their application.

  1. Notify NICCM of any changes in job position, employer or contact information.
  2.  Have completed 10 hours of training having from NICCM during the 2 years you have been credentialed.
  3. Complete renewal paperwork included the annual survey.

Florida Staff & Director Credentials

How do I become Child Care Director qualified in Florida?

To become director qualified in Florida you must earn a Florida Director Credential.

How do I earn a Florida Director Credential (Director Certificate)?

According to the Florida Director Credential Application, applicants must complete an “Overview of Child Care Management Course” or a Director Credential issued by another state, subject to approval by the Florida Child Care Director Credential Program and meets the core requirements.

NICCM’s National Administrative Credential (NAC) is approved by Florida to meets the requirement as well as also earning the participant a National Director Credential. The National Administrative Credential is offered through live 3 day local events or through the NICCM Distance Learning Program online.

State of Florida Director Credential CORE REQUIREMENTS

  1. High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  2. 30 Hour Part I Department of Children and Families’ Introductory Child Care Training SCHOOL-AGE APPLICANTS may substitute training for Child Growth and Development and 
Behavioral Observation and Screening pursuant to 65C-22.008(4)(c)5., F.A.C.)
  3. At least eight hours of in-service training regarding children with disabilities. The Department of 
Children and Families’ Special Needs Appropriate Practice course will meet this requirement.
  4. Active Staff Credential Verification (CF-FSP 5206), excluding Employment History Recognition 
Exemption.

What is required to RENEW my Florida Director Credential?

Florida Director Credential Holders must renew their Credential every 5 years in order to maintain their Florida Director Certification.

The State of Florida requires 3 things:

1. An active staff credential documented on CF-FSP Form 5206. 

2. 45 Vocational Credits, 3 College Credits or 4.5 Continuing Education Units IACET (CEUs) 

Now NAC Approved by T.E.A.C.H!

NICCM offers a course that meets the educational requirement for Florida Director Credential Renewal. The National Administrative Credential (NAC) Course will give you the 45 Vocational Credit needed to renew your Florida Director Credential and will also earn you a National Directors Credential. NICCM's NAC Course can be completed through a live 2 and a half day weekend course or through the Distance Learning Program online. 

 

3. Professional Contribution Requirement

Click Here to Dowload the Florida Director Credential Application (CF-FSP Form 5290)

 

State of Florida Regulations

Section 6 Active Staff Credential (No Ducumentation Required:

  • Staff Credential Verification Must be active at the time of renewal. 
  • Child Care Training Transcript will be used verify an active staff credential.

Section 7 Educational Requirement:

Training must be completed through one of the following:

4.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) – training certificates must clearly list the number of CEUs awarded and the date earned.

Three college credit hours from an accredited or U.S. Department of Education recognized institution – copy of college transcript documenting the semester and year the college credits were earned. If the subject area and age range is not clear on the transcript, please include a course description provided by the university or college in which you attended the training.

  • Forty-five clock hours completed at a Florida Career Education Center (public vocational or technical school), Florida Community Colleges, or an institution licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education.
  • Forty-five Department of Education district approved teacher in-service points.
  • Any combination of the above training hours. (For example: 1 college credit +1.5 CEUs+15 vocational hours).
  • Training must be completed within last five years. In-service hours, non-vocational class hours, or coursework previously submitted to earn an initial/renewal credential will not be accepted. Training must be under any of the following topic areas:
    • Overview of Child Care Management (cannot be the same course used for initial credential)
    • Child Care and Education Leadership and Management
    • Child Care and Education Financial and Legal Issues
    • Child Care and Education Programming


Section 8 Professional Contribution Requirement:

One of the following professional contribution activities must be completed within last five years:

  • Make a presentation in the field of early childhood or school-age education at a conference, association meeting, coalition meeting, or teach courses through an educational institution such as a college or career- technical center. (Documentation must include a copy of the presentation, agenda, syllabus AND sign-in sheet, class roster or conference brochure.)
  • Serve as an officer, committee member, consultant, or mentor in a professional organization related to the field of early childhood or school-age education. (Documentation must include proof of role in organization, including length of time involved and duties. Letter should be from the organization, client, or person being mentored. Membership alone does not satisfy this requirement.)
  • Publish an article related to the field of early childhood or school-age education in a professional journal, professional newsletter, newspaper article, letter to the newspaper editor, or book. (Documentation must include a copy of the published article and proof of publication such as the journal, newsletter, etc. Blog type activities do not satisfy this requirement.)
  • Participate in an educational research project related to early childhood or school-age education. (Documentation must include proof participation was at least three months in the research project.)
  • Complete initial or renewal of a Florida-recognized accreditation program. (Documentation must include proof of accreditation.) For a list of approved accreditation organizations, visit www.myflorida.com/childcare - select “Gold Seal Quality Care Program.”
  • Serve as a validator or advisor for a Florida-recognized accreditation program, as a National Child Development Associate (CDA) advisor, or as a school-age certification representative for the Florida Child Care Professional Credential School-Age Program. (Documentation must include completion of one validation or accreditation visit.)
  • Serve as an editor or reviewer for a professional journal or book. (Documentation must include proof of completion of review such as letter from publisher.)
  • Participate in a rule development workshop for a governmental agency. (Documentation must include proof of active participation at the rule workshop from agency holding workshop and include information shared. Active participation requires providing information for change, rationale for change, providing written suggestions, or sharing information or opinions on proposed rule.)


Renew your Florida Director's Credential Today!

Need more information about Credential Renewal?

Contact Us at (602) 476-1422

How do I RENEW my Florida Director Credential?

Once you have met all the requirements you submit your Florida Director Credential Renewal Application to Tallahassee for approval.

Submit application, required documentation to the address below. Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing.


Florida Department of Children and Families
Child Care Program Office - Credential Unit, DC Renewal
1
317 Winewood Blvd., Bldg. 6, Room 389A
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700 




Need more information about Credential Renewal?
Contact Us at (602) 476-1422

How do I earn a Florida Staff Credential?

According to Florida licensing regulations you must meet one of 4 educational requirements to receive a Florida Staff Credential.  One of the quickest and most cost effective ways to meet this requirement is to take NICCM’s CDA Fast Track 2.0 class and earn your National Child Development Associate (CDA). The CDA Fast Track 2.0 class can be taken through a live 3-day event or through the Distance Learning Program from home.


View our current BROCHURE to see all of our upcoming events. 

CLICK HERE for a list of our upcoming CDA FAST TRACK EVENTS.

Florida Staff Credential Application CF-FSP Form 5211

Florida Staf Credential Requirements

A staff member with one of the qualifications listed below will be issued a CF-FSP 5206, April 06, Staff Credential Verification form. A copy of this form must be kept in the employee's personnel file.   

  1. Formal Educational Qualifications 
a) B.A., B.S. or advanced degree in ONE of the following areas: Early Childhood Education/Child Development, Pre-Kindergarten or Primary Education, Preschool Education, Family and Consumer Sciences (formerly Home Economics/Child Development), Exceptional Student Education, Special Education, Mental Disabilities, Specific Learning Disabilities, Physically Impaired, Varying Exceptionalities, Emotional Disabilities, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Speech-Language Pathology or Elementary Education with certification to teach any age birth through 6th grade (certification may be inactive provided the certificate is not suspended/revoked). 
b) A.S., A.A. degree or higher in Early Childhood Education/Child Development 
c) Associate's degree or higher WITH at least six (6) college credit hours in early childhood education/child development AND at least 480 hours experience in a child care setting serving children ages birth through eight (8).
  2. National Early Childhood Certificate - Active National Child Development Associate (CDA) or other early childhood credential that meets or exceeds the requirements of the National CDA and is recognized by regulatory agencies in at least five (5) states. Recognition is determined by the Department.
  3. Active Birth through Five Child Care Credential (Formerly the Florida Child Development Associate Equivalency Credential (CDAE))
  4. Active School-Age Child Care Credential


How do I apply for the Florida T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship to get reimbursed for my NAC Course?

It takes about 15 minutes to complete the T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Application, but you have the option to save your application and come back later to finish.

You will need to create and login to your Children's Forum Portal account and gather the following materials or information in order to complete the application:

  1. Personal email address**.
  2. Proof of residency
  3. Proof of high school diploma or GED
  4. DCF transcript
  5. Copies of ECE certificates and/or college transcripts
  6. Email address for the child care program where you are employed
  7. License number (or if unlicensed, employer's Federal ID number,) of the program where you are employed
  8. NAEYC accreditation status of child care program where you are employed
  9. Number of children enrolled in program, and number for which program is licensed
  10. School or training organization you wish to attend. Check the ECE Education Directory for options available to you.
  11. Many scholarship models require your employer to sponsor you. Speak to your employer about T.E.A.C.H. before you apply.

** If you do not currently have your own email address, you can create a free email account at GmailYahooMicrosoftAOL or other email providers.

https://login.thechildrensforum.com/login

How do I apply for the Florida T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship to get reimbursed for my CDA application?

It takes about 15 minutes to complete the T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Application, but you have the option to save your application and come back later to finish.

You will need to create and login to your Children's Forum Portal account and gather the following materials or information in order to complete the application:

  1. Personal email address**.
  2. Proof of residency
  3. Proof of high school diploma or GED
  4. DCF transcript
  5. Copies of ECE certificates and/or college transcripts
  6. Email address for the child care program where you are employed
  7. License number (or if unlicensed, employer's Federal ID number,) of the program where you are employed
  8. NAEYC accreditation status of child care program where you are employed
  9. Number of children enrolled in program, and number for which program is licensed
  10. School or training organization you wish to attend. Check the ECE Education Directory for options available to you.
  11. Many scholarship models require your employer to sponsor you. Speak to your employer about T.E.A.C.H. before you apply.

** If you do not currently have your own email address, you can create a free email account at GmailYahooMicrosoftAOL or other email providers.

https://login.thechildrensforum.com/login

CDA Fast Track

How is the CDA Fast Track course only 3 days when others are a full semester?

The CDA Fast Track course takes a fresh approach to helping students become CDA qualified. Rather than using a standard cookie cutter method that other courses use we treat each student as an individual taking into account their previous experience and education. 

The CDA Fast Track Course is 20-24 during a 3-day weekend. This maximizes productivity and comprehension. In other semester long courses students attend class on average 32 hours or less. Other CDA classes are often taught in 1 hour increments therefore class time is continually interrupted.  

As an added benefit CDA Fast Track attendees have access to their instructor/mentor for up to 3 months after the course. 

I am registered for a CDA Fast Track Course coming up soon. What do I need to bring?

For all NICCM courses you must bring a photocopy of your drivers license with you. 

After registering for the CDA Fast Track Course you will be sent a confirmation letter with a list of suggested items for you to bring with you. 

Have more questions? Feel free to contact us at:

Office Phone: (602) 476-1422

Fax: (480) 264-3656 

EmailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

HandPrint Products

HandPrint Products was formed by Bradley Smith to handle his growing line of products that had been created as a support for Directors and Teachers in the Early Childhood Education field. Currently HandPrint Products has a child care training video (DVD) series consisting of 72 titles, a policy and procedure system consisting of 10 manuals, books and other products including his top selling “101 Learning and Transition Activities” book.

Consulting Services

During the past decade, Bradley Smith has led HandPrint Productions to become the leader in consulting of childcare business practices.  This includes: fiscal management, enrollment management, marketing, human resource, small business issues, and leadership.  In addition, the services include help with specific issues concerning handling sensitive issues to avoid fall-out or minimize the likelihood of litigation.  Currently, consulting services are available including: on demand, monthly access, 30 day, long distance, on-site, and extended services.  In addition, career and business coaching and mentoring services are also available.  Contact us  for more information or to schedule a consult.  We guarantee your satisfaction!