Norco College proudly announces the successful completion of a transformative three-year collaboration through the UPLIFT project, a state-wide initiative aimed at re-imagining Early Childhood Education (ECE) preparation. This project, involving key partnerships with Cal Poly Pomona and Baldwin Park Head Start, has significantly advanced the quality of ECE preparation with a focus on dual language learners, practice-based educator preparation, and expanding the ECE workforce to better reflect the diverse student population.
Innovative Outcomes and Impact
- 1. Alignment of CAP8 Courses with New ECE Teaching Performance Expectations
Norco College, along with four other community colleges, successfully aligned their CAP8 courses with the new ECE Teaching Performance Expectations. This achievement ensures that future educators are well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of early childhood education, setting a new standard for ECE programs across the state.
- Development and Implementation of the Dual Language Learner Observation Tool
A significant accomplishment of the UPLIFT project is the creation and rigorous field-testing of the Dual Language Learner (DLL) Observation Tool. This innovative tool enhances the assessment and support of dual language learners and is being integrated into ECE programs at multiple partner institutions, thanks to the expertise and collaboration of the Cal Poly Pomona/Norco College/Baldwin Park team.
- Extensive Training and Community of Practice Sessions
Hundreds of ECE professionals and faculty from two- and four-year institutions across the state benefited from the wide range of training sessions and community of practice initiatives facilitated by the UPLIFT project. These sessions focused on high-quality instruction and curriculum development for dual language learners and their families, significantly enhancing professional development in the field.
- Creation of PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Program Design Principles
To further advance the field of early childhood education, the UPLIFT project developed PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Program Design Principles. These principles are available to any CSU campus interested in creating new credential programs, with initial support already provided to campuses designing these programs, paving the way for future advancements in ECE.
Throughout the UPLIFT project, numerous vital connections were established and strengthened across CSU campuses, between CSU and community college partners, and with advocacy organizations. These connections have deepened the collective commitment to high-quality early childhood education and expanded the network of stakeholders dedicated to achieving this vision.
"The UPLIFT project represents a significant step forward in early childhood education preparation, and we are honored to have been a part of it. The collaborative efforts of our faculty, classified professionals, and partners have resulted in meaningful advancements that will benefit future educators and the children they serve," stated Dr. Monica Green, President of Norco College.
Norco College extends special recognition to Sarah Burnett, Professor of Early Childhood Education, Ph.D, whose dedication and leadership were crucial to the success of the UPLIFT project. Cal Poly Pomona/ Norco College/ Baldwin Park team contributions were vital to the development of the DLL Observation Tool which have made a lasting impact on the project and the broader ECE community.
"Working on the UPLIFT project has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The collaboration with Cal Poly Pomona, Baldwin Park Head Start, and other partners has demonstrated the power of teamwork and shared vision in achieving transformative outcomes in early childhood education," explained Dr. Sarah Burnett, Professor of Early Childhood development.
As the UPLIFT project concludes, Norco College remains committed to advancing early childhood education. The college will continue to build on the foundations laid by the project, leveraging the tools, principles, and connections developed over the past three years to further enhance ECE preparation and support dual language learners.
Norco College, a proud member of the Riverside Community College District, is dedicated to providing high-quality education and support to its diverse student body. Suggested edit to the above: Norco College, one of the three esteemed colleges within the Riverside Community College District, is dedicated to providing high-quality education and support to its diverse student body. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, Norco College strives to empower students and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the region.