Teaching Careers
One of the fastest growing careers in California is teaching. Many California public schools are experiencing an immediate demand for teachers. Over the next decade, it is projected that California public schools will need to hire 195,000 new teachers. Rising student enrollment, an increase in the number of teachers retiring, and class size reduction have all contributed to the growing demand for teachers.
School districts throughout the state are experiencing a high demand for teachers of the following subject areas: math, sciences, special education and bilingual education. Large urban school districts and rural school districts are experiencing a high demand for new teachers at all grade levels and subject areas. To address this demand, UC and CSU have both created plans to increase the number of teachers that graduate from their campuses:
In 2005, the median (half are above and half are below) annual salary for elementary school teachers in California was $52,912 and $57,051 for high school teachers. New legislation supports a new minimum beginning salary of $34,000. The average starting salary in the state is $33,121. Because teacher salaries are established by each school district, contact a school district directly for more specific information regarding teacher salary schedules and benefits.
California teachers also enjoy special incentives including bonuses, mortgage assistance and tax breaks. CSU also offers 
scholarships and student loan cancellation programs for students planning to become teachers.
To become a credentialed teacher, you will need to have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), demonstrate competence in academic subjects, complete coursework and have classroom experience.
Learn more about becoming a teacher in California at the TEACH California website.
