The Child Development Associate (CDA) program in partnership with Cisco College includes 120 hours of Early Childhood training covering eight subject areas and six competencies. There are 80 hours of classroom training and an additional commitment to complete 40 hours of on-the-job practical application including activity documentation.

Spring 2026 Course Information

Classes will run January 22nd through May 14th on a Monday/Thursday evening schedule with a few additional Saturday classes that participants will need to attend. A distance education option will be offered for participants located 20 or more miles outside of Abilene (on-campus Saturday classes are mandatory for virtual learners). 

An informational meeting will be held on January 13th at 6:30 p.m. on the Cisco College Abilene Campus in Room 155.

Course Schedule

• Monday/Thursday
• 6:30-9:30 p.m.
• Occasional Saturdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Campus Location

• 717 Industrial Blvd.
• Abilene, Texas 79602
• Room 155

Participant Details

Providers must currently meet minimum requirements of the CDA Council to be eligible to take the CDA test, and be willing to actively participate in CDA preparation for assessment. In order to participate in the online/distance education course option, an agreement must be signed ensuring regular participation and completion. Workforce Solutions will provide a scholarship to cover costs associated with the program ($500 value) for those who qualify. A TECPDS ID will be required to apply.

The CDA scholarship application for Spring 2026 is currently closed.