Inspired to study child development by her little brother, new Child Development Center (CDC) Associate Teacher Vanessa Palacios finds the innocence and free spirit of young children fun.

One of six children, Palacios’ family is originally from El Salvador. Born in the U.S., she moved to Ridgecrest at the age of 11, and graduated from Burroughs High School. She set out on the path to an AA Degree in Child Development at Cerro Coso and will graduate next spring.

In addition to her part-time work at the college CDC, and college studies, she also works part-time with special needs children. Her passion for children and education sparks her constant search for new ideas and knowledge. Her goal is to make parents feel happy and secure, knowing that their children are well taken care of, and in the best educational setting.

Palacios’ future plans are to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in child development or psychology and travel the world.

WELCOME Vanessa – The best education is one of experience.