(Santa Ana, CA) – The Santa Ana College Early Childhood Development Educator Apprenticeship Program celebrated the completion of their inaugural cohort on August 6, recognizing 17 students for completing over 2,000 hours of on-the-job training to become early childhood educators. Several special guests attended the ceremony, including Rancho Santiago Community College School District (RSCCD) Chancellor Marvin Martinez and U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Training Representative Joy Hermsen.
“This ceremony was special because it marked a milestone — not just for the apprentices, but for the entire community," said Janet Anderson-Deusenberry, Director of Educational Apprenticeship Programs. “The ceremony was filled with joy, pride, and gratitude, and there was a strong sense of shared purpose and community support."
Joy Dalauidao-Hermsen, Apprenticeship & Training Representative from the U.S. Department of Labor
The graduating members of the cohorts received a comprehensive blend of academic coursework and hands-on training in early childhood education at the RSCCD lab schools. Students in the apprenticeship program learn core child development theory, curriculum planning, classroom management, inclusive teaching practices, and culturally responsive pedagogy. In addition, they receive lab school experience paired with on-the-job training to apply what they learned from the program to real classrooms, all while being mentored by the lab school teachers. Through this unique partnership between RSCCD lab schools and the apprenticeship program, apprentices leave with both the academic foundation and the practical, job-ready skills that make them confident, adaptable, and highly qualified early childhood educators.
“This program is critical because it addresses the urgent need for highly qualified early childhood educators, especially those who reflect the communities they serve," said Deusenberry. “It offers a supported pathway for individuals already working in the field to advance their education while continuing their jobs. Apprentices not only grow professionally, but they also elevate the quality of care and education for the children and families in their programs."
The Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship program was developed through the collaboration of the Department of Labor (DOL), Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), SAC Faculty, and the district office. Executive Director of Child Development Janneth Linnell helped develop the apprenticeship standards that were recognized by both the DOL and DAS, aligning academic programming with apprenticeship standards, building support systems, and ensuring that apprentices could balance work and school to make this program come to life.
“This apprenticeship program exemplifies how strategic collaboration across colleges, district leadership, RSSCD lab schools/Child Development Services Department and community partners can create high-impact educational opportunities," said CDES faculty Chantal Lamourelle. “By combining curriculum innovation, workforce alignment, and strong partnerships, this program not only supports early childhood educators but also strengthens the district's reputation as a leader in apprenticeship programs."
“To Cohort 1: You were the pioneers," said Deusenberry, Director of the Apprenticeship Program. “Your dedication, perseverance, and belief in the importance of early childhood education set a powerful example. I hope you carry the lessons, friendships, and accomplishments from this journey with you always. Your resilience inspired everyone around you, and you've paved the way for many future educators to follow. We are incredibly proud of all you've achieved."
Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program Cohort
- Cristal Adame Medina
- Paula Choi
- Cynthia Cruz
- Irma Esqueda
- Maribel Garcia Hernandez
- Melania Garcia
- Mia Gomez
- Kimberly Hernandez
- Robin Huerta
| - Irais Jimenez
- Grecia Pinales-Pinto
- Alondra Rangel
- Maria Toro
- Maria Torres Gutierrez
- Julisa Trejo
- Janelle Valencia
- Yanet Vega
|
The First Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program Cohort
More information on the Apprenticeship Program can be found in the link below:
About Santa Ana College:
Santa Ana College (SAC), founded in 1915, serves more than 70,000 students yearly for credit and noncredit classes. At present, SAC students can work toward completing an associate degree, university transfer, career/workforce training or a bachelor's degree in occupational studies. In 2025, the college will offer a second bachelor's degree in Paralegal Studies. As part of Santa Ana College, the School of Continuing Education located at Centennial Education Center offers free classes throughout the community for adults of all ages and academic backgrounds. Santa Ana College is an award-winning college and was recently ranked as one of the nation's top two-year colleges awarding associate degrees to Latino and Asian students and named one of the best community colleges in California by Intelligent.com for a 2nd consecutive year. The college is also recognized throughout the state for its comprehensive workforce training programs for nurses, firefighters, law enforcement and medical personnel.
