Anniston, AL – Gadsden State Community College has made an exciting move by expanding its Child Development Program to the Ayers Campus in Anniston, creating new opportunities for students interested in early childhood education. Under the leadership of program director Gwen Ford, this initiative aims to prepare students for rewarding careers working with children from birth to third grade in various settings, including pre-kindergarten programs, church daycares, and community daycare centers.
Annually, Gadsden State’s Child Development Program attracts approximately 200 students, and the addition of classes at the Ayers Campus is expected to increase that number. “With the addition of classes at the Ayers Campus, the hope is that even more students will take advantage of this program,” Ford stated.
Currently, two courses are being offered at the Ayers Campus: Children’s Creative Experiences and Introduction to Early Education of Children. Ford anticipates that more courses will be added for the spring semester, further enriching the educational offerings available to students.
“The opportunities are growing every day,” said Ford, an instructor at Gadsden State since 2001, holding 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, who recently joined the program as a full-time instructor, echoed Ford’s sentiments. Badgett, who holds bachelor’s, master’s, and educational specialist degrees from the University of Alabama, emphasized the benefits of small class sizes in the Child Development Program. “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.”
The Child Development Program also provides a pathway for students to further their education, with an agreement in place between Gadsden State and Samford University. This allows graduates to enroll in online classes to pursue a bachelor’s degree, facilitating a seamless transition into advanced studies while remaining close to home.
“This seamless transfer option makes it easier for students to advance their careers while staying close to home and work,” Badgett added.
With the expansion to the Ayers Campus, Ford is optimistic about the program’s future growth. “The need for qualified early childhood educators is on the rise, and Gadsden State is committed to preparing students to meet that demand,” she stated.
For more information about the Child Development Program and its offerings, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu.
