The program follows a cohort model, with a blend of online instruction and in-person, weekend sessions that allow for collaborative learning and hands-on experiences. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education


ROCKLIN, CA (MPG) - The Placer County Office of Education (PCOE) has been officially approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing to offer a Preliminary PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential.

This new credential places Placer County Office of Education among an elite group—one of only eleven approved programs statewide and one of just three county offices of education with this distinction. 

“This is a proud and significant moment for early education in Placer County,” said Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica. “PCOE has a longstanding commitment to providing high-quality professional learning opportunities, and with this new credential, we are equipping educators with the knowledge and tools to inspire and support our youngest learners at the most critical stage in their development.”

The Preschool through Third Grade Early Childhood Education (PK-ECE) Specialist Credential is designed in alignment with the state’s expansion of transitional kindergarten. The program follows a cohort model, with a blend of online instruction and in-person, weekend sessions that allow for collaborative learning and hands-on experiences.

Coursework is grounded in early childhood development and emphasizes inclusive practices and literacy-rich, play-based pedagogy. Interns receive structured coaching and integrated fieldwork supervision that spans a range of early grade levels. The program ensures candidates are building the skills and mindset necessary to become developmentally appropriate, access-minded educators.

This program is the latest addition to Placer County Office of Education's growing suite of offerings through the Leadership & Learning Collaborative (LLC)—a hub for high-quality educator preparation programs. Placer County Office of Education currently offers six state-accredited credential programs, including Education Specialist Mild to Moderate Support Needs Intern Program, Extensive Support Needs Intern Program, Multiple and Single Subject Teacher Induction, Education Specialist Clear Teacher Induction, Preliminary Administrative Services Credential Program (PASC), and the Clear Administrative Services Credential Program (CASC).

For more information about the Preschool through Third Grade Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential, visit: https://tinyurl.com/PCOEpk3credential.