San Marcos, CA (March 25, 2026) — MAAC, in partnership with Palomar College, honored 18 Early Care and Education (ECE) apprentices at a special recognition night earlier this month,celebrating their hard work and dedication towards advancing careers in early education.
Now in its third year, the MAAC Next Level ECE Apprenticeship Program is the region’s first registered early childhood education apprenticeship to be recognized by both the U.S.Department of Labor and the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Apprentices are recognized as Early Care and Education Associate Teachers through certification awarded by the State of California Department of Industrial Relations (IACA). Sponsored by Early Care & Education Pathways to Success (ECEPTS), the two-year program blends paid, hands-on teaching at MAAC early learning centers with Palomar College coursework, guiding participants toward their Associate Teacher Permit and preparing them for full-time employment.
“This apprenticeship model strengthens the early childhood workforce by aligning education with real-world experience,” said Dr. Tina Recalde, interim superintendent/president of Palomar College. “Our collaboration with MAAC supports educators while meeting regional workforce needs.”
“The dedication of these apprentices is shaping the future of our workforce,” added Adolfo Ventura, interim president and CEO of MAAC. “We’re proud to partner with Palomar College in supporting educators who value both learning and experience.”
Apprentices from Cohorts 1 and 2 shared how the program built their confidence, advanced their
careers, and connected them with supportive mentors. The celebration concluded with formal certificates, recognizing the apprentices’ achievements and their commitment to early childhood education.
The evening reflected the power of partnership and the positive impact of investing in early educators. This collaboration creates pathways to education and meaningful careers, fuels economic mobility, and builds brighter futures for families.
Program Highlights:
• Since 2025, 33 participants have completed the program, achieving a 92% retention rate across all three cohorts—a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the apprentices.
• All Cohort 2 participants (100%) applied for the Associate Teacher Permit, reflecting a strong commitment to advancing in the early childhood education field.
• The program boasts a 90% job placement rate, providing stability and opportunities for career growth.
• Seventy-two percent of apprentices have a previous connection to MAAC, reinforcing the program’s commitment to nurturing leaders from within the community.
For more information about the MAAC Next Level ECE Apprenticeship Program, contact Barbara Garcia, Program Manager, at bcgarcia@MAACproject.org or visit MAACproject.org/NextLevel-ECE.
About MAAC
MAAC is San Diego County’s leading provider of comprehensive social services, serving over 100,000 people annually. The organization promotes self-sufficiency through resources and high-quality programs focused on Housing, Economic Development, Education, Health & Well-being, and Advocacy & Leadership Development. MAAC’s Head Start, Early Head Start, and State Preschool programs support school readiness for children from birth to age five at 19 early learning centers as well as a network of 25 home-based family childcare providers, reaching more than 1,200 children countywide. Learn more www.MAACproject.org.
About Palomar College
Palomar College is a public two-year community college, with a campus in San Marcos, education centers in Escondido, Fallbrook and Rancho Bernardo, and an education site at Camp Pendleton. Palomar enrolls approximately 29,000 full-time and part-time students. Residents of California are charged only $46 per unit. At Palomar, students may choose from more than 250 certificates, associate, and bachelor’s degrees. Students pursuing a certificate or associates degree will often transfer to a 4-year institution or train for an in-demand career. Other students enjoy personal enrichment classes as part of their passion for learning. Courses are offered onsite
and online. For more information, visit www.Palomar.edu/.
