**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
December 15, 2025
Barstow, CA – Barstow Community College (BCC) is proud to announce the graduation of its first Nursing Assistant Training (CNA) Program cohort—marking a historic milestone more than 50 years in the making. The cohort of 10 students completed their program on November 23, 2025, and were honored at a celebratory Pinning Ceremony held December 6 at the Barstow Community College Performing Arts Center. Joined by family members, BCC leadership, Board of Trustees, the Barstow College Foundation, and industry partners, the ceremony commemorated not only the accomplishments of the students but the revival of nursing education at BCC.
“The Nursing Assistant pathway is a place where passion and purpose come to life. It is where unwavering compassion shines—helping to heal, restore, and uplift every life touched,” said CNA Director Yvonne Briones.
A Revival Built on Collaboration
BCC’s last nursing program was discontinued in the 1970s. Though discussions periodically surfaced over the years, meaningful progress did not begin until the 2022–2023 academic year. Support from BCC pathway and healthcare advisory committees, the College’s CTE Strategic Plan, the hiring of a regional healthcare consultant, and the High Road Training Partnerships Grant all played critical roles in advancing the development of a new CNA program and its curriculum.
The Barstow College Foundation also provided generous support through funding for skills lab equipment, ensuring students had access to high-quality training resources.
“The Barstow College Foundation is proud to support the CNA program through funding for essential skills lab equipment that ensures students have access to high-quality, hands-on training. These investments help remove barriers to student success, strengthen the local healthcare workforce pipeline, and prepare students to enter in-demand careers with confidence while serving the needs of our community”-Foundation Executive Director, Elizabeth Hulsey
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) approved BCC’s CNA program in December 2023. Out of caution and a commitment to sustainability and living-wage employment opportunities, BCC launched its first cohort as a not-for-credit model to allow flexibility and adjustments during the initial stages.
Even though the not-for-credit structure made the program ineligible for traditional financial aid, grant funding enabled BCC to fully cover student books, supplies, materials, and the State licensing exam fee. Students also completed all required theory and clinical hours to qualify to sit for the CNA exam.
Student Dorothy Espinoza shared how meaningful the experience was to her: “The CNA experience at Barstow for me was an amazing experience and opportunity. I'm so glad that I was given the opportunity to be a part of this program with such amazing instructors. They really all care and show so much support to everyone and help in any way they can.”
(L-R: CNA Instructor Anitra Gonzalez, CNA student Dorothy Espinoza)
Building Strong Healthcare Partnerships
The program began with a student orientation on July 24, 2025, and launched July 30 with 15 enrolled students. Over 18 weeks, students attended Wednesday evening Theory courses and weekend Skills Lab and Clinical sessions. Instruction took place on campus in the Science Building, with Clinicals hosted off-site at Mountain View Post Acute, a skilled nursing facility located in Barstow.
These clinical experiences are essential to preparing confident, compassionate Certified Nursing Assistants who are ready to serve our community.
Looking Ahead: Second Cohort and Future Growth
Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, Barstow Community College is pleased to share that recruitment is underway for the second not-for-credit CNA cohort, set to launch in January 2026, coinciding with the spring semester. This second cohort was made possible through a state grant allocation, and BCC’s eligibility for that funding was secured only through a critical letter of support from Barstow Community Hospital (BCH). This endorsement underscores the community’s shared commitment to strengthening the local healthcare workforce and ensuring sustainable training pathways for future Certified Nursing Assistants.
In addition, BCC is moving toward transitioning the CNA program to a noncredit model for the Fall 2026 semester, with curriculum currently progressing through the approval process. This transition will increase accessibility, affordability, and long-term program sustainability.
This program is more than coursework—it’s a promise to our region,” added Dr. Laura Alvarado, Executive Dean over Strategic Partnerships and Workforce at BCC. “We are building a pathway that supports students, strengthens local healthcare providers, and creates long-term workforce opportunities for Barstow residents.”
About Barstow Community College
Barstow Community College is dedicated to expanding access to high-quality, career-focused education that meets the needs of the region’s workforce. Through partnerships, innovation, and commitment to student success, BCC continues its mission to uplift the community and support the next generation of healthcare professionals.
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For more information about the CNA Program please contact:
Barstow Community College – Public Information Office
Email: asimpson@barstow.edu
Website: Barstow.edu/CTE
