Teen Earns Childcare Certificate Before High School Diploma

While most high school seniors are just planning their future, Gracelyn Robinson is already living hers.

This spring, Robinson became the first student in Transylvania County, North Carolina, to earn both her high school diploma and an infant/toddler care certificate from Blue Ridge Community College. She accomplished this through the College and Career Promise Program, which lets students earn college credentials while finishing high school.

Robinson knew early what she wanted. "I love kids, and want my career to be something with kids," she said, following in the footsteps of her mother, who recently graduated from Blue Ridge's early childhood program and now teaches in an NC Pre-K classroom.

She started the pathway during junior year with EDU 119, an introduction to early childhood education. The excitement from that first class fueled her through five certificate courses while juggling regular high school classes.

But Robinson didn't stop at coursework. She sought out real-world experience through internships and part-time work at local childcare centers, training as a substitute teacher through the Children and Family Resource Center and earning certifications in CPR and SIDS prevention.

"I really enjoyed learning about different ways a child acts when they are upset," Robinson shared. "I enjoyed getting to know families as well as their kids."

The Ripple Effect

Robinson's achievement signals bigger changes ahead for Transylvania County. Starting fall 2026, the collaboration between county schools and Blue Ridge Community College will expand, allowing sophomores to begin the early childhood education pathway right at their high school.

Superintendent Lisa Fletcher sees Robinson's success as planting seeds for the future. "We are growing our own future workforce, one that can support our Pre-K classrooms, a future childcare center for employees, and the needs of our community for years to come," she said.

The certificate courses stack toward additional certifications or an associate degree, giving students like Robinson a clear ladder to climb. Robinson plans to continue taking classes at Blue Ridge while working in a childcare facility.

Her advice to students considering similar pathways? "I would say go through with it, it is very worth it. Turn in your schoolwork on time, have good communication with your professors, and of course, love and care about the kids."

Robinson proved that high school doesn't have to be just preparation for life—it can be where life's work truly begins.