It's a Rap

At the heart of the Kennedy Children’s Center (KCC) lies a deep commitment to community—a commitment that has deeply resonated with me as I continue my journey of learning about innovative, community-centered educational programs and the current challenges faced by educators. Their leadership refused to accept traditional recruitment and training methods that failed to meet the needs of their students and staff. Years before registered apprenticeships for educators were formally recognized, the KCC “Grow Your Own” (GYO) program was born. It is more than just a solution to the teacher shortage; it’s a model for how schools can provide essential support, expand access, and create growth pathways for their staff. As one of New York City’s first and largest early childhood special education providers, KCC faces immense challenges, serving over 400 children daily with a dedicated team of 240 staff.

During my conversation with Executive Director Jeanne Alter and KCC’s Chief Operating Officer Carolyn Cleveland, it became clear just how personal and transformative the GYO program is for everyone involved. By reimagining recruitment as a workforce initiative, the program addresses barriers like certification and training while equipping aspiring educators with practical skills through a six-week “bootcamp.” Hearing Jeanne describe the shift from hiring people on a Monday and placing them in classrooms on Wednesday made me reflect on how impactful quality preparation truly is. “We can’t just keep hiring people and watching them leave,” Jeanne shared. “We needed to invest in their training, their confidence, and their ability to thrive in our classrooms.” Carolyn echoed this sentiment, adding, “It’s not just about filling jobs—it’s about creating pathways for growth and opportunity.”

At this point in the conversation, I was inspired. I couldn’t help but think: Who wouldn’t want to be part of a program where leadership truly understands what it takes to be successful and actively invests in their candidates’ success?

“We needed to invest in their training, their confidence, and their ability to thrive in our classrooms.”

_{Jeanne Alter, Executive Director, Kennedy Children’s Center}

Their decision to register the GYO as an educator apprenticeship with the Department of Labor, solidifies the commitment to providing candidates with structured pathways for long-term success, ensuring these educators are not only prepared for the classroom but also have the support and recognition they need to grow their careers. Program participants are earning while they learn, and are fully supported through mentorship at the school, becoming more and more engaged in the school community through hands-on work with students, in classrooms everyday.

“It’s not just about filling jobs—it’s about creating pathways for growth and opportunity.”

_{Carolyn Cleveland, Chief Operating Officer, Kennedy Children’s Center}

What struck me most was the ripple effect of GYO, and now the apprenticeship—not just on staffing but on the lives it touches. This evolving model of workforce development has helped KCC maintain 100% staffing in a sector plagued by vacancies, and over 350 educators have been trained, with many now pursuing advanced degrees. Through their innovative thinking, KCC has built not just a pipeline for educators but a thriving community where teachers and students alike can flourish. Now, as a registered apprenticeship program, KCC has ensured that the GYO model will not only sustain but grow, supporting educators and uplifting communities. It’s a reminder that even in the face of systemic challenges, meaningful change is not just possible—it’s already happening.

Want to know more? Stay tuned for a special blog post highlighting the candidate’s experience in the GYO/Registered Apprenticeship program!