Tech Goes Home Chattanooga is expanding to support early childhood educators across the state of Tennessee thanks to funding from the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) and Signal Centers.
At Thrive, we know the astronomical role technology plays in the world around us. As the next generation of learners grows up, our world will become even more digital. This is why achieving digital equity now is so important. Since 2015, our partners at The Enterprise Center have been helping do just that by providing digital literacy training and technology to Hamilton County’s residents. Through Tech Goes Home Tennessee (TGHTN), which was founded through a growing partnership with the Tennessee Child Care Resource & Referral Network, The Enterprise Center will be able to advance its footprint and provide access to new technology and training to more than just Chattanoogans.
As of now, over 100 early childhood educators representing 84 TDHS-licensed facilities across the state will participate in this 15-hour training course where they will learn tools and resources to help them succeed and grow in our digital world. They can then use those tools to help the leaders of tomorrow. What’s even more exciting is that 460 additional educators are on a waiting list to participate in the program.
“Bridging the digital divide — especially for those who are educating the next generation — is imperative. This program not only provides opportunities for these valuable employees to access training and certifications for career growth but also ensures that they are equipped with everything they need to prepare the next generation for the future.”
Program participants will also have access to 1-on-1 coaching to help them learn how to use a number of software programs like spreadsheets, word processing and slideshows. Once participants complete the 15-hour training course, they will be able to receive additional training that will allow them to dive even deeper into specific software programs.
“Our program not only empowers our Early Childhood Educators with new knowledge and skills, it also helps validate them as professionals,” Christy Finley, Tech Goes Home TN for Early Child Care Agencies & Educators Program Director, said.
To learn more about Tech Goes Home Chattanooga or Tech Goes Home TN and to find out if you qualify, visit https://techgoeshometn.org/.