Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Connecting with a Professional Development Advisor

• How can I connect with a Professional Development Advisor (PDA)?
  
  Call (866) 697-8278 or contact us via our online form. Gateways staff will work with you to find a PDA who fits your needs. Advisement may include face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or e-mail support.
  
  
• I’m already in the field of early care and education or school-age care. How can a PDA help me?
  
  If you are considering a higher-level position with your current employer, if you are considering a move to another early care and education or school-age care environment, or if you would like to explore your career options in the field and work on a career plan, a PDA can be a guide, mentor, and advisor. PDAs have extensive experience and are a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about early care and education or school-age care career opportunities.
  
  
• What is the cost to talk with a PDA?
  
  PDA services are free.
  
  
• I want to teach in a public school. Can a PDA help me?
  
  PDAs can assist those who want to earn their Type 04 Certificate or Elementary Educaion Degree, which are required to teach in Illinois Public School. They are familiar with university programs that offer certification programs. Read more about Type 04 (Early Childhood) Teacher Certification.
  
  
• Can a PDA help me open a child care business in my home?
  
  Technical assistance such as learning more about requirements and procedures to open your home care business is available through your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Agency. A PDA can help you choose coursework to assist your career development.



• I am just entering the field, how can a PDA help me?
  
  PDAs have extensive experience and knowledge within the early care and education, school-age, Head Start, and Early Head Start fields. They serve as great resources for anyone who is just getting started in the field. PDAs can serve as a mentor and advisor in developing your career path as well as a guide to any questions regarding degrees, credentials, certifications, jobs, etc.



• I would like to start working at a childcare center, how can a PDA help me?
  
  PDAs can assist you by guiding you to specific licensing regulations and other information about center staff requirements, which qualify you to work at a childcare center in Illinois.
  
  
• I want to get my CDA/Gateways credentials, how can a PDA help me?
  
  PDAs can lead you to resources that will help inform you about ·these credentials.



• I would like to get my associate’s /bachelor’s /master’s degree.  How can a PDA help me?
  
  PDAs are familiar with early care and education and school-age degree programs within their area. The majority of advisors have completed their master’s degree and are available to share their knowledge on how ·to complete a college degree.