San Bernardino County’s Preschool Services Department turned challenge into lasting change

Six men and women in business attire and three children stand on a playground posing with one of the men holding large fake scissors to cut a red ribbon tied to two gold stanchions. Shadows of the individuals appear behind them. — *San Bernardino County Preschool Services celebrates the grand opening of the Las Terrazas Head Start Preschool site at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.*

Over the past five years, something incredible has taken shape in San Bernardino County. It didn’t happen overnight, and it didn’t happen without hard work, but thanks to the Preschool Services Department (PSD) and a powerful five-year federal grant, nearly 16,000 young children and families have received more than just early education, they’ve received opportunity, support and a stronger start.

This is the story of how PSD faced a historic moment, rose to the challenge and reimagined what preschool services can look like in communities throughout the county.

Rising to the moment, from crisis to creativity

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, schools everywhere were forced to close their doors. But for PSD, that didn’t mean learning or care had to stop. Instead, the team jumped into action.

Grab-and-go meals were quickly organized to make sure children still had access to healthy food. Take-home learning kits were created so parents had tools to keep their kids engaged and growing from home. And while everyone was adjusting to a new reality, PSD was already finding ways to connect virtually offering remote learning, parent engagement sessions and emotional support.

“The pandemic tested every part of our system,” said Arlene Molina, director of Preschool Services. “But it also revealed our strength. Our team found new ways to connect, educate and protect our children and those innovations continue to shape how we deliver services today.”

What could have been a moment of pause became a moment of progress.

Growing services and access

With strong momentum and support from a 2020–2025 federal grant, PSD didn’t just recover, they expanded key services. Here’s just some of what PSD has accomplished:

Opened new preschool sites across the county, reaching families in more communities than ever before.
Upgraded existing classrooms and playgrounds, making them safer, more engaging and better equipped for modern learning.
Improved infrastructure, including new fencing, roofing, kitchen equipment and security systems.
Updated classroom environments with fresh furniture, technology and materials to keep learning fun and effective.
Supported community partners by funding enhancements at contracted provider sites to ensure consistency in safety and quality.

However, the most visible sign of this growth will be a brand-new administrative building that will also house a cutting-edge child development center.

These upgrades are helping bring enrollment numbers back to target levels. More importantly, they ensured every child had a safe, supportive place to grow.

PSD also continued its focus on health, screening thousands of children for vision, dental and mental health needs. Collaborations with the county’s Department of Public Health and Behavioral Health further strengthened this wraparound approach to care and expanded follow up treatment based on screening results.

STEM focused, tech-smart future

As PSD looks to the future, there’s a clear vision, prepare every child not just for kindergarten, but for life.

One exciting development is the launch of a new STEM initiative that brings science, technology, engineering and math into preschool classrooms in age-appropriate, hands-on ways. Think coding games, simple engineering challenges, nature exploration and fun with numbers.

“We’re not just preparing children for kindergarten we’re preparing them for the future,” said Molina. “That means giving them the tools to be problem-solvers, innovators and compassionate community members.”

The department is also investing in technology that makes it easier for families to enroll, stay connected and access services. PSD is committed to making sure every child, no matter their background or neighborhood, gets the same strong start.

Backed by the county, built for the community

Behind every one of PSD’s accomplishments is a shared belief that investing in children today leads to a stronger tomorrow. That belief is backed by the continued support of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors.

“The board’s support for PSD especially during uncertain times, made all of this possible,” Molina emphasized. “These past five years have shown what we can achieve when we lead with compassion and work together.”

From upgraded playgrounds to brand-new classrooms, from nourishing meals to developmental screenings, from crisis response to future-focused innovation PSD’s work is making a real difference in real lives in San Bernardino County.

For more information about Preschool Services Department’s programs and services, visit psd.sbcounty.gov or call 888-543-7025.

Additional County Update News – June 12, 2025