Briya Graduates 110 Students Ready to Shape the Future of Early Learning
When 45-year-old Rafael Raymundo walked into his first early childhood education class at Briya Public Charter School, he immediately noticed something: he was one of the only men in the room.
For a moment, he questioned whether he belonged.
"The first week, I thought all the time about that," Rafael recalled. "I saw only women in the class. I thought maybe this was not for me."
But encouragement from his classmates helped him stay the course. On June 16, Rafael joined 109 fellow graduates as they crossed the stage to receive their Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials, a nationally recognized certification that prepares educators to work with children from birth to age five.
For Rafael, the milestone represents more than a certificate. It is an opportunity to challenge stereotypes and inspire others.
"I want to inspire other men to change their minds," said Rafael. "People think this is only for women, but men can do it too. We can teach children. We can make a difference."
His goal is to work with young children and serve as a positive role model. As a bilingual educator, he hopes to share his experiences and connect with students and families in both English and Spanish.
Rafael's story reflects the power of Briya's workforce development programs, which open doors to careers in early childhood education while strengthening the District's educator pipeline.
"We definitely need more men as teachers," said Christie McKay, Briya's founder and executive director. "Children want to see themselves in the people who are educating them. It is very important to have more men in early childhood education."
McKay noted that graduates leave with credentials that can be used immediately in classrooms, home-based child care programs, and early learning centers across the country. Many also continue their education at local colleges and universities, often entering with academic credit already earned.
As the 110 graduates celebrated with family and friends, Rafael stood proudly among them, proof that passion and perseverance can overcome doubt.
His message to other men considering a career in early childhood education is simple:
"We can do it. All the time, we can do it."
And thanks to his determination, the next generation of children will benefit from seeing exactly that.
