About Childcare

Are you looking to kickstart your future in child development? Explore our Childcare pathway, developing skills in areas such as Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Special Education, Social Work, Daycare Owners/Directors, and Paraprofessionals. Plus, earn certifications along the way!

If you are a returning student, apply online at mcusd2.org/enroll-LIFT. If you are new to LIFT, welcome! Please start the application process by speaking to your high school guidance counselor.

Available Certifications/Dual Credit Opportunities in Childcare:

  • CPR & First Aid Training

  • Shaken Baby Syndrome Training

  • SIDS Training

  • Mandated Reporter Training

  • Welcoming Each and Every Child

  • ECE Level One Credential

  • LLC Dual Credit Care and Learning Services LLC 051

  • LLC Dual Credit Creative Activities LLC 095

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Choose your Area of Emphasis (AOE)

Meet the Facilitator

I have been teaching for 9 years, 7 have been in the Mattoon District.  I am married to Ryan Ghere who also works in the District. I had the opportunity to stay home with our 4 children for 13 years.  When I was at home, I ran an in-home daycare and preschool.  It worked great for our family.  I was able to stay at home but also keep doing what I loved, teaching.  When I was in high school, I got to be a part of a preschool program as a senior.  I was in it because of a teacher, Mrs. Clark and she believed I had what it took to be a teacher and led me in that direction.  The experience I had as a high school senior in that preschool program was so enriching.  It helped me decide that I wanted to become a teacher.  A statement that I like to use is:  "Believe that you can do it and you will."

Lori Ghere  

   Childcare Facilitator

LIFT Student Success Stories & Outcomes

97% of LIFT high school graduates are enrolling in postsecondary education, advanced training, military, apprenticeships, or employed in the year following graduation.

260 Certifications & Credentials earned in just one year. LIFT students gain technical skills, earn industry credentials, and earn college credits.

137 occurrences of students participating in active leadership opportunities. LIFT students develop as leaders within their chosen fields.

305 service projects were completed in the 2022-23 school year. LIFT students make an impact in our school & throughout the region.

Meet Josie, Childcare Student at LIFT

Meet Josie, a 2022-2023 Childcare student at LIFT and Mattoon Community Unit School District 2 graduate. She recently was hired by Stevens Industries at their new childcare center in Teutopolis, IL! The center was opened in 2022 to assist their own employees who were struggling to find childcare services.

Sarah Zerrusen, HR Generalist/Recruiter from Stevens Industries in T-Town had this to say about Josie, "We were impressed by her resume, professional communication skills, and experience in childcare that she gained through LIFT. When she was touring the classrooms during her interview, she was a shining light that stepped right in to help the children and got down to their level to play with them. We are so grateful for an amazing program in our community that gives students hands on experience in the field they wish to study and the professional skills to set them apart from other applicants."

Apply Today