Izzi Launches EarlySpark Institute to Address Early Childhood Educator Shortage
New San Mateo County teacher training program offers education, classroom training experience, and financial support for aspiring early childhood educators.
In response to a growing need for early childhood educators in San Mateo County, Izzi Early Education recently launches of EarlySpark Institute, a comprehensive teacher training program designed to build a more skilled and diverse early learning workforce.
Administered by Izzi Early Education in partnership with EDvance College and Unitedly, and funded by San Mateo County through Measure K, EarlySpark Institute provides aspiring educators with the tools, support, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in the early care and education field.
Over the next three years, the program will train more than 60 new early educators, addressing a critical shortage that has left many families without access to reliable, high-quality care for children ages 0–5.
First official EarlySpark Institute cohort during in-person program training to complete coursework together.
“The future of San Mateo County depends on a strong foundation for our youngest learners—and that starts with a thriving early education workforce,” said Angel Barrios, Executive and Program Director of Izzi Early Education. “EarlySpark Institute is about investing in people who are deeply committed to children and families, and giving them the support they need to grow into impactful educators.”
Through the EarlySpark Institute, participants will receive:
Financial support as they pursue their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and California Associate Teacher Permit
On-the-job training and classroom experience in early learning centers throughout San Mateo County
Multilingual instruction and support in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Cantonese ensuring both bilingual and monolingual participants can thrive in the program
A pathway to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Studies through EDvance College—while continuing to work in the field
This initiative is more than a workforce pipeline—it’s a commitment to economic mobility, professional advancement, and educational equity.
“At EDvance College, we believe in building clear, supported pathways into early childhood education,” said Lygia Stebbing, President & Founder of EDvance College.
“EarlySpark Institute is a strong first step on that journey. As students complete the program, EDvance supports them toward a bachelor’s degree with a flexible, affordable model designed for working professionals. Through a rigorous, competency-based, reflective curriculum integrating hands-on training and evidence-based practices, EDvance empowers educators to make a lasting impact on San Mateo County’s youngest learners. Together, we’re investing in the future of the county’s early education workforce.”
Importantly, the EarlySpark Institute is focused on recruiting educators whose lived experiences reflect the racial, cultural, and linguistic diversity of the communities they serve.
“As a provider deeply rooted in San Mateo County, Izzi understands that children thrive when they see themselves in their teachers,” Barrios added. “We’re proud to help create pathways for educators who reflect and uplift the communities they serve.”
“Unitedly is committed to ensuring Asian families and communities in San Mateo County can access the resources they need to thrive. In partnership with the EarlySpark Institute, we’re creating pathways for diverse, dedicated individuals to enter early childhood education—expanding opportunities for all and empowering a workforce that reflects the communities it serves.” Alyson Suzuki, Unitedly founder.
To learn more about the EarlySpark, visit www.earlysparksmc.org.
Deadline to apply for the next cohort is Friday, December 5. Program dates January 5 - June 19, 2026.
