Alysha M. Ramos always knew she was meant to work with children, but it wasn’t until she became a single parent that she stepped fully into that calling. “I needed to make an important choice because I was on my own,” she recalled. That decision led her into early childhood education, first with toddlers in Colorado, and eventually to a preschool classroom in Sunland Park, New Mexico.

With encouragement from her coworkers, Alysha pursued and earned her Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in January 2025, thanks to the CDA Assessment Voucher Program. “Getting my CDA felt like a sign. I was exactly where I needed to be,” she said. “It built my confidence and affirmed that this is the work I’m meant to do.”

Now a preschool teacher assistant, Alysha loves the joyful, high-energy world of the 3- to 5-year-old classroom. “Every child is different, and every day is full of surprises,” she said. “They may not remember my name years from now, but they’ll remember how I made them feel. Safe, happy, and seen. That’s what matters.” She smiled, “I love what I do. I don’t see myself anywhere else than in a preschool classroom, with a big bow in my hair and a smile on my face.”

The CDA opened new doors for Alysha; not only did she receive a raise, but she gained a deeper sense of purpose. With continued scholarship support, she’s now pursuing her associate degree in Early Childhood Education at Santa Fe Community College. “It’s not easy balancing school, parenting, and caring for my mom,” she shared. “But the CDA is fundamental. It gives you experience, builds confidence, and helps you realize this is what you’re meant to do.”

Her advice for others? “The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is such a valuable, hands-on way to discover if early childhood is your calling. It gives you the experience and confidence to say, ‘Yes, I can do this.’”

Thinking about a career in early childhood education? Learn more about the CDA Assessment Voucher and ECECD Scholarship programs today.