San Diego, CA — A group of 20 aspiring early childhood educators celebrated a major milestone last week as they became the first graduates of the Next Level Early Care & Education (ECE) Apprenticeship Program. The program, a collaboration between MAAC and Palomar College, was created to train and support future teachers while addressing the growing need for qualified early childhood educators in San Diego County.
The ceremony, held on March 3 at Palomar College, recognized the apprentices’ dedication to their education and their hands-on work in local classrooms. Through this two-year program, participants earned while they learned—completing coursework at Palomar College while receiving paid, on-the-job experience at MAAC early learning centers under the guidance of experienced mentors.
A First for Southern California
The Next Level ECE Apprenticeship Program is the first of its kind in Southern California and only the second in the state to earn official recognition from the U.S. Department of Labor and the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Graduates of the program are now eligible to apply for their Associate Teacher Permit and enter the workforce as early childhood educators.
“This program shows what’s possible when organizations come together with a shared commitment to education and community,” said Dr. Alexis Aviña, MAAC’s Chief Early Childhood Education Officer. “By investing in these apprentices, we are ensuring a stronger future for local children and families.”
Dr. Star Rivera-Lacey, Superintendent/President of Palomar College, emphasized the program’s role in removing barriers to education and career advancement. “We’ve made it easier for students to succeed by bringing college courses to the community, covering tuition and childcare costs, and providing paid, hands-on experience. This program is not only shaping skilled educators but also creating new career pathways for local families.”
Program Highlights
The first graduating class reflects the program’s success in developing a diverse, well-trained workforce:
- 20 apprentices completed the program, with a 92% retention rate.
- Participants include recent high school graduates, working parents, and career changers.
- 100% of graduates come from historically underrepresented communities, and 95% are English language learners.
- Apprentices collectively completed over 40,000 hours of hands-on training and attended more than 50 professional development workshops.
- 19 graduates have applied for their Associate Teacher Permit, and 11 have already secured permanent positions at MAAC early learning centers.
“This program is more than just job training—it’s about transformation,” said Arnulfo Manriquez, MAAC President & CEO. “Many of our apprentices have deep roots in MAAC programs. Now, they’re coming full circle, stepping into roles where they can support the next generation.”
Looking Ahead: Growing the Program
With the next cohort already underway and applications now open for Cohort 3, MAAC and Palomar College are expanding the program to support more future educators. Cohort 3 will welcome 32 apprentices, increasing from 23 spots in previous cohorts. Applications are open through April 30, with selections happening in May. The next group begins in July 2025.
For more information on how to apply, visit MAACproject.org/NextLevel-ECE.
About MAAC
MAAC provides life-changing services to more than 100,000 San Diego County residents each year, focusing on housing, economic development, education, health, and advocacy. MAAC’s early learning programs serve over 1,100 children across 19 early learning centers and a network of home-based childcare providers. Learn more at www.MAACproject.org.
About Palomar College
Palomar College serves approximately 29,000 students across its main campus in San Marcos and three education centers in Rancho Bernardo, Escondido, and Fallbrook. The college offers over 250 degree and certificate programs. Learn more at www.Palomar.edu.