The Alaska Early Childhood Administrator Credential (AK-ECAC) is a series of content-specific trainings designed to provide administrators with knowledge in the areas of fiscal management, human resources, social emotional development, family engagement, what it means to be a professional in early childhood, and how to arrange a classroom environment to support children's development. These content areas have been identified by a statewide advisory panel of early childhood professionals as foundational to any program administrator in order to help provide a quality early childhood education program.

The AK-ECAC and Learn & Grow:

While the AK-ECAC is a stand-alone credential, it is also a requirement of Learn & Grow, Alaska's Quality Recognition and Improvement System (QRIS) for early childhood education programs. For more information on Learn & Grow, visit aklearnandgrow.org.

Here are a few steps to assist with the process:

Note: If you are renewing, please do not upload any documentation. Please select the "Renewal Application" option below. 

If you are renewing your application, this will be your last renewal for this Credential. As of August 2025, the Alaska AK-ECAC is a one-time credential and does not expire. Once awarded, it remains valid and does not require renewal.

1. Gather Documentation:  Gather your training certificates and/or transcripts with the courses related to the AK-ECAC Credential and upload them to this application.

2. Review Transcripts with a Staff Member:

For applicants working in a program participating in Learn & Grow:

• Work with your program's Professional Development Specialist (PDS) from thread, who will help review your transcripts and determine what AK-ECAC content areas you have completed.  Please contact our Lead Office:  907-265-3100

For applicants working in programs NOT participating in Learn & Grow:

• Arrange a time to talk with a Statewide Systems Coordinator to review transcripts and determine what AK-ECAC content areas you have completed. Please contact 907-265-3118 or email nroman@threadalaska.org.

3. Complete Training for All Content Areas

4. Submit Application: When you have completed training/courses for all content areas, complete the following application form and submit it with any supporting documents.  Alaska SEED will respond to you within 30 days of receiving your application.

Applicants who work in centers need to be at least a level 7 in the SEED Career Ladder.  Applicants who work in home/group care need to be at least level 6 in the SEED Career Ladder.