The program is designed to prepare students for teaching positions with a private school

or childcare center, or as associate teachers in subsidized preschool or childcare centers.

All students may attend the program; however, it specifically targets and assists single

parents. This is a one semester Employment readiness academy in Early Childhood

Education. It provides skills that include: how to use appropriate guidance with children,

how to plan and carry out learning activities for children, how to work as a team member

in a pre-school or child care center, and how to apply infant/child care first aid/CPR.

Students undergo enrollment procedures that include the completion of an application for

enrollment, a screening process that includes drug, alcohol, and TB testing, and a

Criminal Record Statement. Prior to any childcare work experience internship, students

must have their fingerprints and child abuse index check processed by the Department of

Justice. The college has prepared a flyer about the Academy that is widely distributed to

promote the program.

Enrollment in the academy is restricted until program enrollment requirements are

completed. Students are then enrolled in college courses, with an eight hour cohort that

runs 8am to 5pm Monday through Thursday, and 8-12 on Friday for the full semester.

When ready, students are placed with mentor teachers for hands-on experience in

regional child care centers, to acquire experience prior to completion of the program.

Student cost for participation is estimated at $750, and financial assistance is available for

low income students.

The fact that the two annual Academy offerings are continually full is evidence of the

effectiveness and success of the program.

Preparation

1801 Panorama Dr

Bakersfield, CA 93305

(661) 395-4089, jbudy@bakersfieldcollege.edu