FROM CLASSROOM TO COMMUNITY: BUILDING EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS AND PIPELINES TO DIVERSIFY THE TEACHER WORKFORCE IN THE INLAND EMPIRE

| Lead Subaward Institution: University of California, Riverside - School of Education | Pathway: Education |

| Date Funded: July 2024 | Amount Awarded: $999,999 | Project Completion: June 2028 |

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Led by UC Riverside’s School of Education, From Classroom to Community strengthens pathways into education careers by connecting high school, community college, and university learning with practical experience and community engagement. Working with school districts, Riverside City College, and community partners, the project supports aspiring educators as they explore careers, pursue college coursework, and prepare to serve their communities.

Students benefit from early college credit, tutoring, advising, campus visits, and opportunities to learn from educators and university students. Community Engaged Learning connects academic study with internships and local organizations, helping participants apply their knowledge, explore professional interests, and build relationships beyond the classroom.

The project also supports educator development and belonging through mentorship, professional learning, and community building. Programs such as the Institute for Teachers of Color Committed to Racial Justice support the growth, well-being, and leadership of educators of color.

By linking student preparation with community experience and ongoing educator support, From Classroom to Community creates more connected pathways into education and helps strengthen a diverse educator workforce across the Inland Empire.

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

“I could make a difference and whatever I do, there are people who care for me and they can help me with whatever I do.”

-Honesty (Apple Valley Middle School Student)

PROJECT IMPACT

From Classroom to Community has expanded access to education career pathways through early college coursework, academic support, and community-based experiences. In Spring 2026, high school students enrolled in Riverside City College’s transferable Child Growth and Development course. Community Engaged Learning connected students with internships, while its CEL Fair brought together students and community partners. Advising, tutoring, campus visits, and mentorship help participants navigate their educational next steps, while professional development and community building support educators of color. Together, these efforts strengthen connections between education, career preparation, and service to the region.

  • Connected high school students with UCR campus visits and information about the RCC-to-UCR transfer pathway.

  • Conducted more than 900 outreach calls and scheduled 83 counseling appointments for RCC education students needing additional support.

  • Continued mentorship, professional development, leadership development, and well-being programming for educators of color.Strengthen RCC-to-CSU nursing progression.

KEY MILESTONES

UC Riverside School of Education

IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS

Expanding educational opportunities, hands-on learning experiences, and student support across the Inland Empire.

1,991

Students Served

Students served through UCR's K–16 education initiatives, expanding access to academic and career pathways.

381

Work-Based Learning Students

Students participating in hands-on work-based learning experiences to explore careers in education.

581

Students in Support Programs

Students receiving additional support through programs designed to strengthen academic success and educational pathways.

PROJECT PARTNERS

This work is made possible thanks to the support of these and many additional regional partners.