Child Development Program expands to Ayers Campus

ANNISTON, AL – Gadsden State Community College has expanded its Child Development Program to the Ayers Campus in Anniston, offering more opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in early childhood education.
 
Under the guidance of program director Gwen Ford, the program is designed to prepare students to work with children from birth to third grade in a variety of settings, including pre-kindergarten programs, church daycares and community daycare centers.
 
Annually, Gadsden State’s Child Development Program attracts approximately 200 students.
 
“With the addition of classes at the Ayers Campus, the hope is that even more students will take advantage of this program,” Ford said.
 
Currently, two courses are being offered on the Ayers Campus: Children’s Creative Experiences and Introduction to Early Education of Children. Ford noted that the number of courses available on the campus in Anniston is expected to grow with additional classes planned for the spring semester.
 
“The opportunities are growing every day,” said Ford, who has been an instructor at Gadsden State since 2001 and holds degrees from the University of West Alabama and the University of Alabama. “Students can acquire better jobs with more benefits. There are also many options for students to continue their education and obtain a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree. It is a perfect option for students to work with children on many different levels.”
 
Hannah Badgett is an instructor in the Child Development Program. She has been working as a full-time instructor since August. She holds bachelor’s, master’s and educational specialist degrees from the University of Alabama.
 
“A key advantage of our program is its small class sizes, which allows students to build a close rapport with instructors,” she said. “The more personal instruction enhances the learning experience. In addition, many of our classes are offered online, so students have the flexibility to balance their studies with work.”
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The Gadsden State Child Development Program also offers students a pathway to further their education. The College has an agreement with Samford University, where students can enroll in online classes following graduation from Gadsden State to earn a bachelor’s degree.
 
“This seamless transfer option makes it easier for students to advance their careers while staying close to home and work,” Badgett said.
 
With the expansion to the Ayers Campus, Ford said she is confident the program will continue to grow.
 
“The need for qualified early childhood educators is on the rise, and Gadsden State is committed to preparing students to meet that demand,” she said.
 
For more information, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu.