Early Childhood Student-Alumni Network (ESAN)

Join the ESAN Network

We are a student-run organization with the purpose of creating an interdisciplinary network of current San Jose State University students and alumni working in the field of early childhood.

The group is intended to respond to the needs of students, with activities based on student interest. This hub of student activity may engage in a variety of professional development activities under the guidance of a faculty advisor. For example, students may be interested in learning more about professional practices across the field to inform their knowledge and interaction with young children. This group may also engage in career exploration, with alumni returning to share insights from their own professional paths. The possibilities are endless!

We invite you to connect with us:

• Sign up for the ESAN mailing list to stay up-to-date on news, special events, and opportunities.
• Now accepting current SJSU student applications for ESAN club officer positions. Interested applicants can sign up HERE.
• Follow us on Instagram.
• Questions? Email us at esansjsu@gmail.com.

Interested in Working in Early Childhood?

Watch one of these "Day in the life" videos!

Overview of a day as an early childhood educator:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DJzMTQjsOA

Day in the life of an early childhood educator:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8FY1i69j-k

The role of an early childhood educator:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiPt6T0EvwQ

More information on the Early Childhood Profession:
https://www.preschoolteacher.org/california/

California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) Guidelines:
https://www.ctc.ca.gov/docs/default-source/educator-prep/early-care-files/ece-cred-types.pdf?sfvrsn=4f4fed04_0

Events

SJSU: Watch an engaging conversation with Abbigail Ramirez HERE.
Abbigail is a fellow ESAN member and current graduate student in the Special Education Master's program and in the Early Childhood Special Education Credential program. She currently works as a teacher assistant at an inclusive preschool, serving both general and special education students. 

Current California Preschool Instructional Network (CPIN) Trainings can be found HERE.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recorded webinars of interest can be found HERE.

Meet the Team 

Erin Maxwell, President
SJSU Early Childhood Special Education Masters and Credential Student

Erin Maxwell is enrolled in her last semester of SJSU's Masters and Credential Early Childhood Special Education program. She has worked with young children in a variety of settings including infant-toddler/preschool programs to early intervention positions. She is currently working as a substitute paraeducator for Santa Clara County Office of Education. She aspires to be an early childhood special education teacher after she graduates.

Abbigail Ramirez
SJSU Early Childhood Special Education Masters Student

Abbigail Ramirez is an early childhood special education major and currently taking up Masters in Special Education at San Jose State University. She works as an ABA therapist and a substitute paraeducator. Some of her passions are spending time with dogs, enjoying desserts, and STEAM activities, in addition to her love of working and playing with children. Previously to her work with ESAN, she was volunteer in a non-profit Catholic organization which helped her broaden her skills with working with children and other people.