Thunderbolt Career & Technology Center

Kellie Johnson (kljohnson@colleton.k12.sc.us) is the instructor for the Early Childhood Education courses at TCTC.  Prior to making the transition to the high school level seven years ago, she worked at her Alma Mater, South Carolina State University for 13 years.  She is using her experience and education to prepare our students for a future in family life, work life, and careers in Family and Consumer Sciences by providing opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviors needed to strengthen the well–being of individuals and families across the life span.  In addition to teaching, Ms. Johnson is the Junior Class Advisor and also the Assistant Advisor of Student Council.  She is a South Carolina State University Bulldog Fan and a University of Georgia Bulldog Fan.  One of her favorite quotes by Helen Keller is “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet.  Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

This is the Early Childhood Education completer pathway available at TCTC:

Early Childhood Education (131210) (Four Units Required)

These are the Early Childhood Education courses available at TCTC and CCHS;

Child Development 1

Unit Credit: 1

GPA Weight: CP

Credit Type: CATE

Prerequisite(s):

Child Development 1 focuses on the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth and development of children. Emphasis is placed on helping students acquire knowledge and skills essential to the care and guidance of children. Students learn to create environments that promote optimal development. Factors influencing a child’s development from conception through childhood are explored. Opportunities for service and project-based learning are incorporated throughout the course.

Early Childhood Education 1

Unit Credit: 1

GPA Weight: CP

Credit Type: CATE

Prerequisite(s): Child Development 1

Early Childhood Education 1 is designed to provide students with hands-on opportunities to actively explore and observe the world of children and prepare them for educational and administrative careers in the field. This course provides an in-depth study of career paths, developmentally appropriate practices, curriculum development, safe and healthy learning environments, and collaborative relationships.

Early Childhood Education 2

Unit Credit: 1

GPA Weight: CP

Credit Type: CATE

Prerequisite(s): Child Development 1, Early Childhood Education 1

Early Childhood Education 2 is an advanced course focusing on the competencies needed to plan, guide, and care for young children in a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment. Students can acquire certification in pediatric safety, CPR, and first aid. Students interact with professionals in the field and participate in various school-to-work activities. Student laboratory/field experiences may be school based or in the community and include job shadowing and internships.

Entrepreneurship

Unit Credit: 1

GPA Weight: CP

Credit Type: CATE

Prerequisite(s):

Entrepreneurship is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to develop an effective business plan for small business ownership. An important part of the course will be the incorporation of economics, ethics, legal aspects, logistics, research, staffing, strategies for financing, and technology.

Integrated Business Applications 1

Unit Credit: 1

GPA Weight: CP

Credit Type: CATE

Prerequisite(s):

Integrated Business Applications 1 provides in-depth instruction in Microsoft (MS) Office applications that will lead to national certifications. The applications covered include MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and Microsoft (MS) Access (optional). Students will learn the features and benefits of the application program and apply their knowledge in various problem-based activities. In addition, students are engaged in applying key critical thinking skills and the practice of ethical and appropriate behavior for the responsible use of technology. This course prepares students for the Microsoft Specialist Associate certifications offered by Certiport.