Grow Your Own is a FREE, 6–7 week in-person program that covers all required screenings, workshops, and exams — helping you earn your New York State Teacher Assistant certification.
REQUIREMENTS
Based on New York State and New York City regulations, applicants must:
be legally eligible to work in the United States
be able to pass an NYC DOH background check
be English proficient and able to pass a standardized ELA exam
be at least 18 years old
be able to provide physical proof of your high school diploma, high school equivalent, or GED (but education level should not exceed an Associate’s Degree)
A love for children
This is the most important requirement for joining GYO. Applicants should genuinely enjoy being around young children and, ideally, have some prior experience working with them.
SUBMIT AN APPLICATION
Gmail account is required for both the application process and training.
Upcoming Trainings
Cohort 27: May 5th - June 18th, 2025
Cohort 28: July 8th - August 15th, 2025 ( Subject to change)
Cohort 29: September 15th - October 31st, 2025 ( Subject to change)
Cohort 30: November 6th - December 19th, 2025 ( Subject to change)
Bronx location:
1028 E. 179th St, Bronx, NY 10460
Manhattan location:
2212 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10035
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and we will consider you for our next available training. Please note, submitting an application does not guarantee you a spot in our training program. All applicants are required to undergo an interview process.
MEET OUR GYO TRAINERS
Recruitment, training, and job placement is facilitated by our talented Workforce Coordinators:
Shayquana Elliott Cordes
Workforce Coordinator
Sharifa Cohen
Workforce Coordinator
LEARN MORE ABOUT GYO BELOW:
Hear from past and current GYO participants about how the program has impacted their lives.
GYO combines hands-on experience in the classroom with professional development and exam preparation. Our intensive job-placement services help graduates find suitable positions at early childhood providers throughout the city.
Already have your Teaching Assistant certification and are interested in becoming a certified teacher?
Support GYO at KCC
Grow Your Own is made possible by the generosity of our donor community. You can make a real difference in the lives of children, families, and early childhood professionals by donating today.