Program Components:

Curriculum development

Internships

Financial support

Preparation

1801 Panorama Dr

Bakersfield, CA 93305

661-395-4089; jbudy@bakersfieldcollege.edu

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

childcare 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.