“GROW OUR OWN” TEACHERS PATHWAY
| Lead Subaward Institution: Barstow Community College | Pathway: Education |
| Date Funded: July 2024 | Amount Awarded: $999,925 | Project Completion: June 2027 |
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Led by Barstow Community College, the “Grow Our Own” Teachers Pathway helps local students and community members prepare for careers in education. Through partnerships with school districts, adult education programs, CSU San Bernardino, CSU Dominguez Hills, and Cal State TEACH, the project connects early career exploration with college coursework, transfer opportunities, and teacher credential preparation.
High school students explore teaching through education-focused coursework, early college credit, and work-based learning in local schools. These experiences allow students to support classroom activities, learn from practicing educators, and begin developing the skills needed to work with children.
The pathway also supports community college students, paraeducators, classified school employees, and adults interested in becoming teachers. Dedicated counseling, university visits, preparation workshops, and credential information sessions help participants understand their options and plan their next steps. Collaboration with university partners expands access to degree and credential pathways within the Barstow community.
By supporting aspiring educators at multiple entry points, the project creates more accessible routes into teaching and helps develop a local educator workforce connected to the community it serves.
Recovery with Equity Strategies: Cultivate inclusive, engaging and equity-oriented learning environments; Retain students through inclusive support; Provide high-tech, high touch advising; Support college preparation and early credit
“There are future teachers already in our classrooms, on our school staff, and throughout our community. This partnership helps them see a path into teaching and find the support to take that next step.”
PROJECT IMPACT
The Grow Our Own Teachers Pathway has expanded opportunities for Barstow-area students and adults to explore and pursue careers in education. High school students gained practical experience supporting activities in local schools, while college students, paraeducators, and classified employees received counseling and guidance on degree and credential pathways. University visits helped participants explore transfer options and envision their futures as educators. In Spring 2026, participating high school students earned early childhood education certificates from Barstow Community College, and candidates were also enrolled in Cal State TEACH. Together, these efforts strengthen local routes into teaching and support the development of educators connected to their community.
Engaged Careers in Education students in work-based learning at local elementary schools.
Organized a CSU Dominguez Hills visit to explore degree programs, teaching credentials, and campus life.
Hosted a “Classified to Certificated Teacher Pathways” event for Barstow Unified employees.
KEY MILESTONES
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
Regional Education Pathway impact across the Inland Empire K–16 Education Collaborative.
Students Enrolled
Students enrolled in K–16 Collaborative Education Pathway programs across the Inland Empire.
Work-Based Learning
Students participating in work-based learning experiences through regional Education Pathway projects.
Dual Enrollment Students
Students enrolled in dual enrollment courses through regional Education Pathway initiatives.
PROJECT PARTNERS
This work is made possible thanks to the support of these and many additional regional partners.
