SAN MARCOS, CA (February 21, 2025) – By way of a unanimous vote of the California Community College Board of Governors, the Palomar College Education Center in Rancho Bernardo has received ‘center status’ approval. This designation positions the District to receive an estimated minimum of $2.2 million in future funding once the Center enrolls 1,000 Full-time Equivalent Students.  This annual funding provides a substantial opportunity to address the diverse needs of students in the most southern portion of the Palomar Community College District.

“Approval of the Education Center reinforces our commitment to providing comprehensive educational opportunities that support student success,” said Michelle Barton, Senior Director of Planning, Research, Institutional Effectiveness, and Grants at Palomar College. “The additional funding will further our efforts to enhance the Rancho Bernardo Education Center and expand its academic programs and student services.”

“This is a significant achievement for Palomar College. This is a result of our extensive focus on enrollment growth and a strategic initiative to offer programs in Rancho Bernardo that are responsive to the needs of significant industries in our region,” said Superintendent/President Dr. Star Rivera-Lacey.

The Rancho Bernardo Education Center located at 11111 Rancho Bernardo Road, joins the Palomar College Education Center in Escondido as a state-approved center. Palomar College also has education centers in Fallbrook and at Camp Pendleton.

Prior to its opening in 2018, the multi-level Rancho Bernardo Education Center was remodeled using funds from the Proposition M bond measure passed by voters in 2006. Its programs are guided by STEM – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The center also houses programs in architecture, architectural drafting, fashion merchandise and design, interior design, mathematics, and pre-allied health.

It also offers a wide range of courses for students to pursue an associate degree, general education requirements for transfer, occupational skills, or personal development courses. The center offers student services that include enrollment services, assessment, counseling, financial aid, health services, library services, student activities, campus police and a teaching and learning center.