Gateways to Opportunity Credentials

Gateways Credentials are symbols of professional achievement that validate knowledge and skills, experience, and contributions in early care and education, infants and toddlers, and/or administration. These credentials can be earned by:

• completing an approved program at a college or university through the entitled route.

OR

• completing a portfolio that documents knowledge and skills, experience, and contributions through the direct route.

OR

• completing the Gateways ECE Credential Level 1 or School-Age and Youth Development Credential Level 1.

Gateways to Opportunity credentials were signed into law, effective July 1, 2009. Gateways credentials are awarded and recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Bureau of Child Care and Development.  Gateways offers a variety of credentials to professionals in the field of early care and education, school-age, and youth development:

• ECE Credentials
  • Level 1
  • Levels 2–5
    
    
• Illinois Director Credential (IDC)
  
  
• Infant Toddler Credential (ITC)
  
  
• School-Age and Youth Development Credential (SAYD)
  • Level 1
    
    
• Other State Recognized Credentials and Certifications

Getting Started

Download the Gateways Registry Membership Form and Direct Route Credentials Supplement Application for all Gateways to Opportunity credentials, or contact us with questions or to request an application.