A Cognia Accredited and "A+ School of Excellence" | Tuition-Free Public Charter School | 26-27 School Year Applications Now Open A Cognia Accredited and "A+ School of Excellence" | Tuition-Free Public Charter School | 26-27 School Year Applications Now Open A Cognia Accredited and "A+ School of Excellence" | Tuition-Free Public Charter School | 26-27 School Year Applications Now Open
Apply Now Join Our Team
toggle menu

Education Academy Overview

CIVICA SoHo is proud to partner with Somerset SoHo Elementary to provide students with an authentic, hands-on Education Academy experience. Through this partnership, students will have the unique opportunity to explore careers in education while working alongside experienced teachers and school leaders in a real classroom setting. Students will participate in classroom observations, mentorship opportunities, field experiences, lesson planning, instructional activities, and other career-focused learning experiences that prepare them for success in the field of education.

Our Education Academy is built upon the principles of leadership, integrity, professionalism, collaboration, compassion, and lifelong learning. The program is designed to provide students with a realistic understanding of the responsibilities and rewards of becoming an educator. Students and parents should understand that enrollment in this academy is a commitment to maintaining high academic, behavioral, and professional standards.

As future educators and role models, students are expected to demonstrate professionalism in their appearance, communication, attendance, conduct, and the quality of the work they produce. While participating in field experiences at Somerset SoHo Elementary, students are expected to serve as positive representatives of CIVICA SoHo by modeling appropriate behavior, maintaining confidentiality, and demonstrating respect for students, families, teachers, and staff at all times.

Field Experience & Professional Expectations

A key component of the Education Academy is participation in supervised field experiences at Somerset SoHo Elementary. These experiences allow students to apply what they learn in the classroom while developing the skills necessary to become effective educators.

Students may assist teachers with instructional activities, small-group learning, classroom organization, school events, and other age-appropriate educational experiences under the guidance of certified educators. Participation in these experiences contributes to students' overall course performance and is considered an essential part of the academy curriculum.

Students are expected to arrive on time, dress professionally as directed, actively participate, maintain confidentiality regarding students and school matters, and follow all policies and procedures of both CIVICA SoHo and Somerset SoHo Elementary. Any behavior that does not reflect the professionalism expected of future educators may result in removal from field experiences and may impact academy standing.

Through its partnership with Somerset SoHo Elementary, the Education Academy provides students with meaningful real-world experiences that foster leadership, communication, collaboration, and instructional skills while preparing them to earn industry credentials and pursue careers in education. Students will graduate with a deeper understanding of the teaching profession and the confidence to make a positive impact in the lives of future learners.

CDA: Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is a nationally recognized certification that prepares students for careers in early childhood education. Through CIVICA SoHo's partnership with Somerset SoHo Elementary, students will gain valuable hands-on experience by working alongside certified educators in authentic classroom settings while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to support the growth and development of young learners.

As part of the program, students will complete the required coursework toward the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, including the 480 hours of professional experience required for certification. Students will also complete the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) 45-Hour Introductory Child Care Training, as well as earn certifications in Pediatric First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students will be prepared to earn their Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, qualifying them to work with children ages 3–5 in early childhood education settings throughout the State of Florida. Graduates will possess foundational skills in child development, classroom management, lesson implementation, health and safety, family engagement, and creating developmentally appropriate learning environments, providing them with a strong foundation for careers in education and continued postsecondary studies.

Apply Now