91 is one of only eight of the over 750 universities in California to offer the PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction credential. The School of Education received official accreditation from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing last year, making it the first private university statewide to offer the credential.

“Earning this accreditation not only reflects the quality and rigor of Biola's School of Education, but also our commitment to excellence and mission,” said Dr. Christi Min, chair of the Early Childhood program in the School of Education. “The program development process was an intensive effort requiring the faculty and staff to meet all state requirements — including common standards, preconditions and program standards — with integrity and distinction. As a result, Biola became the first private university in California to receive this accreditation and remains one of only eight universities in the state offering the PK-3 ECE Specialist Credential.”

To support the successful implementation of this program, the School of Education was also awarded a $250,000 Integrated Undergraduate Teacher Preparation Grant from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

“Fifty percent of the funding is being allocated directly to current and incoming students through scholarships, helping to reduce financial barriers as they pursue their degree and credential through our teacher preparation program,” said Min. “The remaining funds are being used to support program development, including the creation of new courses, revision of existing coursework, administrative costs, program promotion and related implementation needs.”