Grow Within: Career Development Funding
Discover career advancement opportunities and educational pathways designed to help SBCSS employees reach their professional goals.
Watch the video to hear from employees just like you who took advantage of these opportunities to grow within and transformed their lives through education.
Opportunities with the SBCSS Logo are exclusively available to SBCSS employees.
Please keep in mind that these are a collection of federal, state, and local funding opportunities. Each opportunity has a different application method and funding agency associated with it. Follow up with each respective agency to confirm eligibility requirements and application deadlines. All students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is required to determine your eligibility for Federal and State grants, scholarships, and loans.
Choose Your Pathway
Teaching Pathways
Select the option that best describes your current education level to see funding opportunities available to you.
- If you have a high school diploma or GED
- If you have some college units (less than 60)
- If you have some college units (60+) or an associate's degree
- If you have a Bachelor's Degree or higher
- If you have a teaching credential
If you have a high school diploma or GED
Having a high school diploma or GED is the first step toward a career in education. Here are funding opportunities available to help you get started on your path:
CA College Corps Grant
Work within community-based organizations in K-12 education.
- Up to $10,000
- Must be a full-time undergraduate student
- Attend a partner college
- Can commit to the program for the full academic year
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
CA College Promise Grant
Covers tuition costs at California community colleges while you complete your lower-division courses.
- No cost tuition at community colleges for eligible students
- Complete lower-division coursework
- Prepare for transfer to four-year university
CSEA Member Career Grant
Financial assistance for CSEA members.
- Support for career advancement goals
- Available to active CSEA members
- Competitive selection process
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
QCC Workforce Pathways Stipend
Tuition support for completed college/university coursework:
- Work in San Bernardino County with children ages birth-5
- Employed in Family Child Care, Family Friend and Neighbor, school-based, or center-based program
- Paid classroom role, minimum 15 hrs/week
- Annual income must be under $85,000
- Individuals serving in substitute roles are ineligible to participate
- Participants must maintain continuous classroom employment with the same agency from October 1, 2025 until funds are issued through agency payroll
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
Tailored for Confidential employees, California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members, and Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
- Up to 50% of tuition, fees, and parking costs
- Up to 100% of book costs
- $10,000 annual fund available
You can check the Bargaining Agreements page to stay up to date with SBCSS employee opportunities.
Teachers for Tomorrow Program
Financial support for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials:
- Up to $3,000 per year for tuition assistance
- Payments made directly to college/university
- Application and interview process required
- Up to 16 participants selected annually
Additional Funding Opportunities
Explore additional funding opportunities below:
Next Steps
Start by enrolling at a local community college to begin building your college units. Connect with a counselor to explore transfer pathways and teacher preparation programs that align with your goals.
If you have some college units (less than 60)
If you have fewer than 60 college units, you'll need to complete additional coursework to qualify for most teaching credential programs. Here are options to help you on your path:
CA College Corps Grant
Work within community-based organizations in K-12 education.
- Up to $10,000
- Must be a full-time undergraduate student
- Attend a partner college
- Can commit to the program for the full academic year
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
CA College Promise Grant
Covers tuition costs at California community colleges while you complete your lower-division courses.
- No cost tuition at community colleges for eligible students
- Complete lower-division coursework
- Prepare for transfer to four-year university
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
Early Ed. Teacher Dev. Grant
Specialized grant for aspiring early education teachers:
- For paraprofessionals without credentials
- Preparation for teaching in a TK classroom
- Enrolled in an integrated bachelor's/credential program in multiple subject or pk-3
Golden State Teacher Grant
If you're in a dual bachelor's/credential program, you could qualify for this state-wide grant opportunity for future teachers.
- Up to $10,000 available
- For those pursuing teaching credentials
- Priority to high-need fields and schools
- Requires commitment to teach in high-need subject or school
QCC Workforce Pathways Stipend
Tuition support for completed college/university coursework:
- Work in San Bernardino County with children ages birth-5
- Employed in Family Child Care, Family Friend and Neighbor, school-based, or center-based program
- Paid classroom role, minimum 15 hrs/week
- Annual income must be under $85,000
- Individuals serving in substitute roles are ineligible to participate
- Participants must maintain continuous classroom employment with the same agency from October 1, 2025 until funds are issued through agency payroll
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
Tailored for Confidential employees, California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members, and Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
- Up to 50% of tuition, fees, and parking costs
- Up to 100% of book costs
- $10,000 annual fund available
You can check the Bargaining Agreements page to stay up to date with SBCSS employee opportunities.
Teachers for Tomorrow Program
Financial support for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials:
- Up to $3,000 per year for tuition assistance
- Payments made directly to college/university
- Application and interview process required
- Up to 16 participants selected annually
Additional Funding Opportunities
Explore additional funding opportunities below:
Next Steps
Focus on completing at least 60 transferable college units to qualify for other programs. Meet with an academic counselor to ensure your coursework aligns with teacher preparation requirements.
If you have some college units (60+) or an associate's degree
With 60+ semester units, you qualify for additional funding options while you complete your bachelor's degree:
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
CA College Promise Grant
Covers tuition costs at California community colleges while you complete your lower-division courses.
- No cost tuition at community colleges for eligible students
- Complete lower-division coursework
- Prepare for transfer to four-year university
Classified Employee Grant
Financial assistance for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials.
- Up to $4,320 living stipend per fiscal year
- Must have 60+ college units
- Must be pursuing a preliminary teaching credential
CSEA Member Career Grant
Financial assistance for CSEA members.
- Support for career advancement goals
- Available to active CSEA members
- Competitive selection process
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
Early Ed. Teacher Dev. Grant
Specialized grant for aspiring early education teachers:
- For paraprofessionals without credentials
- Preparation for teaching in a TK classroom
- Enrolled in an integrated bachelor's credential program in multiple subject or pk-3
Golden State Teacher Grant
If you're in a dual bachelor's/credential program, you could qualify for this state-wide grant opportunity for future teachers.
- Up to $10,000 available
- For those pursuing teaching credentials
- Priority to high-need fields and schools
- Requires commitment to teach in high-need subject or school
LES Foundation Scholarship
Financial support for future teachers in junior, senior or graduate years of accredited teaching programs at UC and CSU campuses.
- $4,000 scholarships to 30 colleges annually
- Additional $1,000 grants from Mabel Outler Scholarship Fund for elementary education
- Administered through financial aid offices at participating UC and CSU campuses
QCC Workforce Pathways Stipend
Tuition support for completed college/university coursework:
- Work in San Bernardino County with children ages birth-5
- Employed in Family Child Care, Family Friend and Neighbor, school-based, or center-based program
- Paid classroom role, minimum 15 hrs/week
- Annual income must be under $85,000
- Individuals serving in substitute roles are ineligible to participate
- Participants must maintain continuous classroom employment with the same agency from October 1, 2025 until funds are issued through agency payroll
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
Tailored for Confidential employees, California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members, and Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
- Up to 50% of tuition, fees, and parking costs
- Up to 100% of book costs
- $10,000 annual fund available
You can check the Bargaining Agreements page to stay up to date with SBCSS employee opportunities.
Teachers for Tomorrow Program
Financial support for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials.
- Up to $3,000 per year for tuition assistance
- Payments made directly to college/university
- Application and interview process required
- Up to 16 participants selected annually
Additional Funding Opportunities
Keep in Mind
You'll need to complete your bachelor's degree before entering a teacher credential program. Consider programs that offer an integrated bachelor's and credential pathway to streamline your journey.
If you have a Bachelor's Degree or higher
With a bachelor's degree, you're ready to pursue a teaching credential or an integrated master's. These programs can help fund your credential program:
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
Classified Employee Grant
Financial assistance for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials.
- Up to $4,320 living stipend per fiscal year
- Must have 60+ college units
- Must be pursuing a preliminary teaching credential
CSEA Member Career Grant
Financial assistance for CSEA members.
- Support for career advancement goals
- Available to active CSEA members
- Competitive selection process
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
Early Ed. Teacher Dev. Grant
Specialized grant for aspiring early education teachers:
- For paraprofessionals without credentials
- Preparation for teaching in a TK classroom
- Enrolled in a credential program for multiple subject or pk-3
Golden State Teacher Grant
If you're in a dual bachelor's/credential program, you could qualify for this state-wide grant opportunity for future teachers.
- Up to $10,000 available
- For those pursuing teaching credentials
- Priority to high-need fields and schools
- Requires commitment to teach in high-need subject or school
SBCSS Teacher Residency Grant
Prepare for a career in special education through a residency program with Claremont Graduate University.
- $31,700 grant-funded living stipend
- Approximately 80% paraeducator salary and generous benefits
- Limited to paraeducators who have passed probation
- Integrated master's degree and extensive support needs credential in 18 months
- Requires 4-year service commitment to SBCSS
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
Tailored for Confidential employees, California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members, and Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
- Up to 50% of tuition, fees, and parking costs
- Up to 100% of book costs
- $10,000 annual fund available
You can check the Bargaining Agreements page to stay up to date with SBCSS employee opportunities.
Teachers for Tomorrow Program
Financial support for classified employees pursuing teaching credentials.
- Up to $3,000 per year for tuition assistance
- Payments made directly to college/university
- Application and interview process required
- Up to 16 participants selected annually
Additional Funding Opportunities
Keep in Mind
You'll need to complete your bachelor's degree before entering a teacher credential program. Consider programs that offer an integrated bachelor's and credential pathway to streamline your journey.
If you have a teaching credential
Having a teaching credential opens the door to additional opportunities for professional growth and financial support. Here are programs available to credentialed educators:
Become a Mentor Teacher
Become a mentor teacher to provide and receive support from a resident teacher:
- Job-embedded professional development
- Convert experience into professional credit units
- $3,150 Stipend
- Dedicate 1–2 hrs for Residents per week
Early Ed. Teacher Development Grant
Specialized grant for early education teachers:
- For prekindergarten teachers and paraprofessionals with credentials
- Preparation for teaching in a TK classroom
- Eligible if credentialed and completing 24 Child Development/Early Childhood Education units
SBCSS Bilingual Authorization Support
Designed for credentialed teachers holding a single subject, multiple subject, pk-3, or education specialist credential:
- Pathway to earning a Bilingual Authorization
- Tuition assistance
- Guidance to connect with partner programs
- Professional development to meet the needs of multilingual learners
- Submit your interest here
Additional Funding Opportunities
Explore additional funding opportunities below:
Next Steps
As a credentialed educator, you have unique opportunities to grow professionally and support the next generation of teachers. Explore mentorship, bilingual authorization, and specialized grant programs to continue advancing your career.
Four Pathways to Teaching
Earn While You Learn Pathway
1
Earn While You Learn
Pathway most economical option and gets you in the classroom in 4 years!
Step 1
Community College
or
Step 2
CSU/UC - Bachelor's Degree
or
Step 3
Intern Credential
Apply for a full-time paid teaching job and internship program.
Example:
Single Subject Credential Program
or
or
Teacher Internship Program
Apply for a full-time paid teaching job and internship program.
Example:
Single Subject Credential Program
or
Traditional Route: 4 Years
Traditional Route: 5 Years
3
Traditional Route:
5 Years
Step 1
Community College
or
Step 2
CSU/UC - Bachelor's Degree
or
Step 3
Intern Credential
or
or
Teacher Internship Program
Apply for a full-time paid teaching job and internship program.
Example:
Single Subject Credential Program
or
Already have your Bachelor's?
4
Already Have Your
Degree? Get Your
Credential Through A:
Credentialing Program
or
or
Teacher Internship Program
Apply for a full-time paid teaching job and internship program.
Example:
Single Subject Credential Program
or
Become a substitute teacher today via an emergency substitute license.
Career Advancement Pathways
Explore the career advancement opportunities available to you.
Become a Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist Tuition Program
Substantial tuition reimbursement for professionals pursuing a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, with increasing reimbursement rates as you progress through your program.
Reimbursement Rates:
- 70% for units 1-20 (up to $10,500)
- 85% for units 21-40 (up to $12,750)
- 100% for units 41+ (up to $15,000)
Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree in communicative disorders or related field
- Acceptance into SLP Master's program
- Pass SBCSS pre-employment requirements
Commitment
- Five-year service commitment with SBCSS after program completion
- Submit proof of completion each semester
- Student responsible for non-tuition expenses
These opportunities are subject to change. Please click learn more to find the most up-to-date information.
Additional Funding Opportunities
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
CSEA Member Career Grant
Financial assistance for CSEA members.
- Support for career advancement goals
- Available to active CSEA members
- Competitive selection process
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
SLP Hiring Incentive
One-time hiring bonus for qualified Speech-Language Pathologists joining SBCSS.
- $2,000 hiring incentive paid within 90 days of employment start
- Must possess CA SLP License or Clear SLP Credential
- Requires one-year service commitment to SBCSS
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
Tailored for Confidential employees, California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members, and Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
- Up to 50% of tuition, fees, and parking costs
- Up to 100% of book costs
- $10,000 annual fund available
You can check the Bargaining Agreements page to stay up to date with SBCSS employee opportunities.
SLP Supervision Compensation
Additional compensation for Speech-Language Pathologists who supervise CFY students or waiver SLP employees.
- Compensation for up to 12 hours per trimester (36 hours annually) of CFY supervision
- Stipend for supervising waiver SLP employees
- Pre-authorization from Principal required
Additional Scholarships & Resources
Explore additional scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs that may support your path to becoming an SLP.
General Funding Opportunities
Advance Your Career
Discover financial assistance opportunities for professional growth no matter your career goals.
SBCSS Tuition Reimbursement
This program aims to facilitate and financially support these employees in their pursuit of higher education:
- Confidential employees
- California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 633 members
- Teamsters Local 1932-unit members who are permanent employees of SBCSS.
CA College Fee Waiver Program
For dependents of deceased or disabled veterans.
- Waives tuition and fees at CA public colleges
- Offered by San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs
- Multiple plans available based on eligibility
- Only available for California Community Colleges, CSUs and UCs
CSEA Member Career Grant
Financial assistance for CSEA members.
- Support for career advancement goals
- Available to active CSEA members
- Competitive selection process
CSEA Union Plus Scholarship
Scholarships for CSEA members and their families.
- Ranges from $500 to $4,000
- For continuing education or college
- Based on academic achievement and financial need
Additional Scholarships & Resources
Explore additional scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs to support your professional growth.
Institution-Specific Tuition Discounts
Supriya Barrows
Human Resources Special Projects Manager
For additional information, please call 909.388.5778.
760 East Brier Drive
San Bernardino, CA 92408