Kern
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County Program Profile: Kern
Time Period: 2023–2024
QRIS :: Kern Early Stars
The purpose of Kern Early Stars (KES) is to support high-quality early childhood education programs, strengthen teaching practices, and advocate for all children. We collaborate with California State Preschool Programs, child development centers, family child care providers, and alternative child care settings. Our program also partners with community-based organizations, including libraries, family resource centers, and home visiting programs.
Since 2014, KES has continued its mission to educate programs, families, and the community about the impact of high-quality early education, with the support of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools and First 5 Kern.
Program Contact Information
Kern Early Stars
website
contact
Stacy Barnett
phone
661-861-5226
Kern Early Stars
website
contact
Yadira Mendoza
phone
661-861-5287
Funding Streams
- CSPP
- QCC
- IMPACT
Partner Agencies
- Community Connection for Child Care/Resource & Referral Community Care Licensing
- CPIN
- PITC
- Local School Districts – Arvin School District
- Bakersfield City School District
- Delano Union Elementary School District
- Edison School District
- Greenfield School District
- Panama Buena Vista School District
- Community Action Partnership of Kern First 5 Kern Bakersfield Homeless Center Kern County Superintendent of Schools – Early Childhood Education Bakersfield College
- Taft College
- Bakersfield Adult School
- California State University
- Bakersfield Children’s Center
Process to Outreach/Onboard Programs and Providers
Kern Early Stars, in collaboration with Consortium members, will identify potential participants and provide information on the benefits of joining the program. A designated Kern Early Stars staff member will schedule an initial meeting with interested participants to discuss the program’s benefits, opportunities, and participation requirements. Additionally, Kern Early Stars staff will work closely with sites to assess their needs and provide the training, coaching, and technical assistance necessary to support the development of a quality improvement plan. Interested providers can complete the KES Interest Form.
Quality Improvement Program Support Strategies
Participating educators benefit from personalized coaching and professional development opportunities, working hand-in-hand with a coach to set goals that elevate teaching practices and positively impact the early learning experiences of children across Kern County.
Local Approach to Offering Financial Incentives and Stipends
Incentives include personalized coaching, access to a wide range of community resources, networking opportunities, and high-quality training programs. Additionally, California State Preschool Programs that complete the rating process are eligible for financial stipends, with the amount determined by the tier level achieved.