Discover Your Future in Early Education

In early education, you can make a lasting impact and advance along many paths toward a rewarding and meaningful career. Explore resources available in San Mateo County to help you grow and succeed.

Career pathway diagram showing steps from START through CDA, AA, BA, and PK3 Credential, leading to roles like Assistant Teacher, Teacher, Lead Teacher, and TK Teacher, with alternate entries from FCC Provider and Youth Pre-Apprenticeship.

Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Explore a career in early education as a high school intern.  

More coming soon!

Assistant Teacher 

Earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. 

EarlySpark Institute

Teacher

Earn your Associate in Arts or Science degree.

Skyline College

CaƱada College

Lead Teacher

Earn your Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Studies.

EDvance College

TK-3rd Grade Teacher

Earn your PK3 credential.

PreK 3 Credential Programs

Family Childcare Provider

Learn how to become a family child care provider and explore trainings that support high-quality care.

4Cs Child Care Coordinating Council

How to Become Licensed