My name is Barbara Best and I am currently the Infant/Toddler Specialist Coordinator for Partners for Quality, Region IX. The counties I work in include Kern, Kings, Tulare, Santa Barbara and Ventura. In my capacity as Infant/Toddler Specialist Coordinator, I provide training, coaching, mentoring and reflective action planning to a variety of programs that serve children from birth to three years old. I also work collaboratively with agencies within the region such as Community Colleges, Local Planning Councils, and First Five projects.

I recieved my Associate Degree in Family Studies at Bakersfield College and completed both my BA and Master's Degree at Pacific Oaks College, in Human Development.

I have worked in various capacities with young children for over 25 years. I have worked as a Family Child Care Provider, Teacher in infant/toddler programs, Supervisor of infant/toddler programs and Manager of Early Head Start in Kern County. I have also taught as adjunct faculty for Bakersfield College.

I am passionate about working to improve the lives of infants and toddlers and continue to advocate for our youngest members of society.