From classroom to career: Preschool Services Department’s cohort program builds the next generation of educators

A smiling woman with long brown hair wearing a blue shirt and white sweater holds a clipboard while standing in a preschool classroom. — *San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department completes first-ever Teacher Aide Cohort program.*

The San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department (PSD) proudly celebrates the completion of its first-ever Teacher Aide Cohort program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to address the ongoing staffing shortage in early childhood education. With a focus on education, mentorship and workforce development, the program offers a pathway into the profession for individuals eager to make a lasting impact on the lives of young children.

A cohort committed to early education

Development of the Teacher Aide Cohort program began in March 2024. By June 2024, PSD officially launched the six-month pilot, combining virtual college coursework with hands-on experience at PSD sites across San Bernardino County. Designed for aspiring early childhood educators, including recent graduates, career changers, and those reentering the workforce, the program prepares participants to earn a Child Development Associate Teacher Permit and pursue careers in the field.

With guidance from experienced teachers and support from program staff, participants took college-level courses such as Child Growth and Development, Infant/Toddler Development, and Principles of Teaching Young Children. These classes were complemented by in-person experience supporting children and teachers in PSD classrooms.

The impact of the program

Of the participants who began the program, 75% successfully completed it and are now eligible to enter the early education workforce in San Bernardino County. If all of those who have applied with PSD are hired as expected, the department projects an 18% reduction in Teacher Aide vacancies—meaning more classrooms staffed and more children supported with high-quality early education.

The impact of the cohort extends beyond numbers. One participant shared how the experience helped confirm that early childhood education was her calling. With the encouragement of welcoming teachers and staff, she developed new confidence and discovered her academic potential—successfully completing college courses she never imagined she could pass. Others echoed similar sentiments, describing how the program helped them grow professionally and personally.

Supervisors across various PSD sites praised the cohort participants for their professionalism, initiative, and genuine engagement in the classroom. They shared:

“The cohort staff demonstrated extraordinary growth in their interactions with children and showed strong development in communication skills.”

“They showed noticeable improvement in their confidence and connection with children. Their collaborative approach and positive attitude made them an asset to any team.”

“They consistently demonstrated a willingness to learn, maintained excellent communication with staff, and reliably completed tasks and assignments on time. Their contributions had a noticeable, positive impact on the classroom environment.”

Building the workforce of tomorrow

What makes the Teacher Aide Cohort program so effective is its comprehensive, supportive design. Participants receive mentorship, structured training, and access to college education; all while gaining valuable real-world experience. PSD staff model the behaviors and soft skills they hope to instill in the next generation of educators, fostering a positive and nurturing learning culture.

The program is also a testament to innovation and fiscal responsibility. By reallocating salary savings from unfilled positions, PSD was able to fund the program without increasing departmental expenses.

Looking ahead

With its measurable success and strong participant feedback, the Teacher Aide Cohort program has set a new standard for workforce development in early childhood education. A second cohort began June 16, 2025, continuing the department’s efforts to expand access to early learning and build a stronger, more resilient educational workforce.

PSD is proud of its cohort participants and looks forward to seeing many of them return as permanent team members—bringing with them fresh energy, passion, and a deep commitment to serving San Bernardino County’s children and families.

To learn more about the Teacher Aide Cohort program or upcoming opportunities, visit the San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department website.

Congratulations to our graduating cohort; your dedication is planting the seeds for lifelong learning and success.

Additional County Update News – July 10, 2025