EARLY EDUCATOR PATHWAY

Early Educator Apprenticeship Program

A paid earn-and-learn pathway for current Oakland Unified employees pursuing careers in Early Childhood Education.

Complete Interest Form

2–3

Years

48

FREE UC/CSU Units

$

Paid Apprenticeship

✔

Master Teacher Permit

Earn While You Learn

The Early Educator Apprenticeship Program (EEAP) is a 2–3 year paid, earn-and-learn program for current Oakland Unified employees who are passionate about working with children and families.

Apprentices continue working in their current roles while taking evening college courses that prepare them for careers in Early Childhood Education.

Participants earn up to 48 FREE UC/CSU transferable units, work toward the Child Development Master Teacher Permit, and receive individualized mentoring and career support.

Early Educator Apprenticeship participants gathered for a cohort photo

Program Benefits

💼 Paid Apprenticeship

Continue working while completing your college coursework.

🎓 Free College

Earn up to 48 UC/CSU transferable college units at no cost.

👩🏽‍🏫 Mentorship

Receive advising, tutoring, coaching, and case management.

💚 Student Supports

Transportation stipends, free books, child care, and academic support.

EEAP apprentices attending a college class

COLLEGE COURSEWORK

Earn College Credit at No Cost

Apprentices attend evening college classes while continuing to work in Oakland Unified schools. Coursework combines child development, family engagement, culturally responsive teaching, and general education requirements.

✔ Evening college courses
✔ Up to 48 FREE UC/CSU transferable units
✔ Transcript analysis to personalize your pathway
✔ Classes offered through the Peralta Community College District.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Apply Your Learning Every Day

Apprentices continue serving students in their current school-based roles while putting new skills into practice. The program combines classroom learning with meaningful, hands-on experience supporting young children and families.

✔ Continue working in your current role
✔ Build confidence through real classroom experience
✔ Receive mentorship from experienced educators
✔ Grow professionally while earning your credential

Who Can Apply?

Current OUSD employees aged 18-24 interested in pursuing a career in Early Childhood Education who are able to commit to evening college classes.

What You'll Earn

48 FREE UC/CSU transferable units
Master Teacher Permit pathway
Paid work experience
Professional growth

Support Services

Academic Advising
Case Management
Transportation Stipends
Tutoring
Child Care Support
Career Counseling

Inside the Apprenticeship Experience

From college coursework to classroom learning, EEAP apprentices grow together every step of the way.

EEAP cohort — EEAP apprentices collaborate, build community, and learn alongside one another throughout the program.

EEAP mentors — Apprentices receive mentorship and support from experienced educators and program staff.

Professional presentation — Apprentices develop professional skills through presentations, projects, and collaborative coursework.

Working with children — Gain hands-on experience supporting young learners in real OUSD classrooms.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Join the Early Educator Apprenticeship Program and build your future while continuing to serve Oakland students.

Complete an Interest Form