California Code § 101216.1(c)(1): Teacher Qualifications

❌ Common Mistakes

• Counting related but non-qualifying coursework toward the 12-unit requirement. Courses in general psychology, sociology, or family studies often don't meet CCLD's definition of early childhood education, even if your college lists them under the same department. Inspectors reject these units on the spot.
• Assuming experience at an unlicensed program counts toward the six-month requirement. CCLD specifies licensed child care centers or comparable group programs. Babysitting, nannying, or working at a co-op preschool without a license typically doesn't qualify.
• Hiring a teacher who meets qualifications on paper but hasn't transferred transcripts yet. Inspectors need to see official documentation during the visit, not a promise that records are "on the way." Without paperwork in hand, the teacher is unqualified on paper.
• Letting a qualified teacher's file go stale after initial hire. If a teacher earned units at one college and later took courses elsewhere, both transcripts need to be on file. Inspectors check total qualifying units, and gaps raise questions.