Project Impact

What is Project Impact

Project Impact is a transformative initiative dedicated to diversifying the teacher workforce by intentionally recruiting and preparing underrepresented minorities, with a special emphasis on African American males, for impactful careers in K-12 education across the Inland Empire and beyond. Through the support of the Watson College of Education, this program equips scholars to become highly skilled, collaborative, and inclusive educators who serve as restorative agents for educational equity and social justice.

Our program is built on The Four Pillars—Recruitment, Training, Deployment, and Mentorship—which guide teacher candidates through every stage of their journey, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive experience.

Recruitment – Building the Pathway to Success

We actively connect with underrepresented communities through strategic outreach initiatives, district partnerships, and engagement with local organizations. By breaking down barriers, we ensure a diverse pool of aspiring educators ready to impact the classroom.

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Training – Elevating Educators Beyond Standards

Project Impact provides cutting-edge preparation through rigorous Credentialing Programs, Pre-Internship Educational Experiences, and our signature Master Your Craft Professional Development series. These components go beyond foundational teaching skills, equipping candidates with experiential and culturally relevant pedagogy tailored to today’s classrooms.

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Deployment – Empowering Classrooms Nationwide

With strategic school district placements and immersive teaching internships, Project Impact ensures its candidates are deployed where they’re needed most—ready to make an immediate difference in the lives of students and communities.

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Mentorship – Sustaining Success in Education

Through a robust five-year mentorship program, we support our educators beyond the credentialing process. Candidates benefit from cohort-based peer networks, individualized guidance, and connections with seasoned professionals, fostering long-term success and retention.

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Project Impact is more than a program—it’s a commitment to creating equitable and inclusive classrooms, transforming education, and empowering the next generation of learners. Our intentional focus ensures teacher candidates enter the profession as change agents, ready to make a lasting impact in schools and communities.

Possible Pathways

Project Impact supports participants pursuing a career in education and seeking a teaching credential through the various pathways CSUSB offers.

Dennis Bayless

Single Subject Credential Program

For those aiming to teach specific subjects at the middle or high school levels. Learn more about the Single Subject Credential Program.

Multiple Subject Credential Program

Designed for aspiring educators teaching in elementary school classrooms. Learn more about the Multiple Subject Credential Program.

Special Education Credential Program

Tailored for individuals who want to work with students with special needs. Learn more about the Special Education Credential Program.

Bachelor’s Degree Pathways

Liberal Studies Integrated Track or STEM disciplines for undergraduate students preparing to enter the teaching profession. Learn more about our STEM Program.

Transfer Student Opportunities

Transfer students from community colleges can join as juniors to pursue education-related degrees.