The California Preschool Instructional Network (CPIN) provides high-quality professional learning, technical assistance, and support to California’s preschool program administrators and teachers through its statewide network. Organized into 11 state regions, CPIN instructors provide research-based teaching and learning strategies that are developmentally and age- appropriate and highlight inclusive practices and support for all children. Instruction incorporates adult learning theories and is intentional, reflective, and interactive with hands-on learning and time for planning.
Trainers may be authorized by the CPIN Lead in their region or by WestEd. Please find your county's Region Lead and contact them to begin the process. The CPIN trainer authorization process has three steps. The following is a brief description:
Phase 1: Candidate must complete California Early Childhood Online (CECO) coursework of the Preschool Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF). Candidates must observe or attend a CPIN PTKLF professional development presentation for which they want to use for their observation (minimum of two different instructors).
Phase 2: Candidates must co-present with an authorized CPIN trainer on one presentation for which they have attended the TOT.
Phase 3: Candidates demonstrate competency as a CPIN trainer through an observation process on one PTKLF presentation (which they have observed and co-presented) and receive feedback using the CPIN Observation Rubric. Region Leads/authorizing instructor may elect to combine Steps 2 and 3.
Upon successful completion of all three steps, candidates will receive training on using the CPIN Conference Center and will earn their CPIN Authorization. To access specific CPIN Conference Center presentations and deliver CPIN presentations, all trainers must attend an in-person or virtual Trainer of Trainers (ToT) for the specific CPIN presentation.
View the 2026-27 CPIN Trainer Authorization Process Flow.
Following authorization, instructors are required to—
- Use CPIN presentations and materials with fidelity.
- Post all training on the Region's registration system and ensure the Regional Lead has posted all professional learning sessions on the CPIN website.
- Attend Quarterly CPIN virtual meetings.
CPIN trainers must complete a CPIN Authorization Agreement and adhere to all conditions. CPIN trainers are authorized to provide CPIN Professional Learning sessions for their own agency/employer only. It is permitted for an Instructor to provide CPIN sessions on behalf of the CPIN Region if entering into an agreement as a paid instructor as well. Instructor and the Instructor’s employer may not accept payment (aside from the regular salary provided by the employer) to provide training. The partnering agency is responsible for travel costs associated with TOT Institutes unless funding is available through CPIN Region, CPIN State, or WestEd.
For additional questions, please contact cpinadmin@scoe.net.