Articles Media
Are you a student looking to make a difference in early childhood education? The Student Placement Program (SPP) at Collaborative for Children gives you the chance to gain real-world experience while helping young children thrive. Whether you’re pursuing a career in education or simply want to give back, this program offers meaningful opportunities to grow, learn, and lead.
Apply Today!
Unlike traditional volunteer roles, the SPP places students directly into early learning environments. Volunteers work alongside certified early childhood specialists in over 250 classrooms across Greater Houston. These experiences include:
– Administering school readiness assessments
– Assisting with progress monitoring
– Supporting STEAM-themed learning activities
– Participating in family engagement events
– Facilitating mobile classroom learning with the Collab-Lab
This hands-on approach helps students build confidence, develop teaching skills, and understand what it takes to prepare children for the 21st century.
Learn More about centers of excellence
The program is offered in three seasonal sessions:
– Spring (January–May) – Applications closed
– Summer (April–August) – Applications ongoing
– Fall (September–December) – Apply by September 30
Volunteers choose from a schedule of opportunities that match their availability and academic requirements. Whether you’re fulfilling practicum hours or exploring a future in education, the SPP is designed to support your goals.
All student volunteers receive virtual training and orientation, available on Mondays and Fridays. These sessions:
– Set clear expectations
– Match students with an Early Childhood Education (ECE) lead specialist
– Provide expert guidance on school readiness tools and assessments
– Over 3,500 children assessed for social-emotional and cognitive development
– More than 65 child care centers identified as models of early learning success
– Peer mentorship and career guidance from experienced educators
– Opportunities to transform learning spaces with STEAM installations
Whether you’re studying education, child development, or simply want to give back, this program offers a powerful way to make an impact.
Learn MoreThe program is open to students interested in early childhood education, child development, or related fields. Applicants must complete an online application and attend virtual training.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in real classrooms, assist with assessments, support STEAM learning, and engage with families and educators.
Complete the below online application and get started.
Apply Today!
