Dewan: Pathways to careers in early childhood education

As early learning program options continue to expand to meet the needs of families, Santa Clara County will need more child care providers, teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals and wellness staff to serve our county’s youngest learners.

Within Santa Clara County, 89% of preschool demands are being met, according to the 2024 Early Care and Education Facilities Study. Only 28% of the demand for infant and toddler care is being met in Santa Clara County as of 2023, with a need for infant and toddler care in every city. More spaces are also needed to serve children with disabilities, as only 9% of providers have self-identified as having experience serving preschool-age children with disabilities.

Early childhood educators work in a variety of settings with children from birth through age eight. The Santa Clara County Office of Education developed the Early Childhood Career Pathways website to provide career-seekers with information on requirements, advising services and scholarship opportunities for 20-plus career options in early childhood education. Careers are categorized into two sections on the website, “Careers in Childcare and Preschool Programs” and “Careers in the Public School System.” Detailed information is provided on each position’s educational requirements and Santa Clara County educational institutions that support those pathways, along with helpful contacts in the event additional questions arise. This informational hub also includes professional development opportunities and job search resources.

With more than 240,000 students in Santa Clara County, the office of education understands the need for educators is ongoing. That’s why the office of education, in partnership with local organizations, coalitions and institutions of higher education, is working together to develop supportive pathways for professionals who wish to serve and support children.

In its commitment to promote student and public-school success, the office of education has developed a pipeline through its Educator Preparation Programs to support individuals seeking or clearing a teaching credential, a public pupil service credential, or an administrative services credential. Knowing that students are more successful when they have diverse and highly skilled educators available to them, the programs continue to be a valuable resource for new and returning educators.

Join educators who are already on a path toward a fulfilling career in early childhood education.

Visit https://sccoe.to/EarlyChildhoodCareers to find your pathway.

San José Spotlight columnist Mary Ann Dewan is the superintendent of schools for Santa Clara County. She has more than 33 years of experience in the field of education. Her columns appear every third Monday of the month.