Assembly bill would create grant program to diversify teacher workforce

Assembly Bill 520, which would create the California Diversifying the Teacher Workforce Grant Program, passed the Assembly Education Committee Monday. The bill would award $15 million to school districts to develop and implement programs to diversify teaching staffs.

The bill must pass both houses of the state Legislature and be signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom before it becomes law.

The legislation is needed to correct a demographic mismatch between teachers and students, said Assemblyman Mike Gipson, D-Watts, at a press conference hosted by Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond Tuesday. According to the bill’s analysis, 77 percent of the state’s students are Black, Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander or mixed race, compared to 40 percent of its teachers.

Research shows that students of color do better academically when they have a teacher who looks like them, said Gipson, who authored the bill.

“When students can identify with their teachers and see them as role models they are ultimately more successful in school,” he said. “They show great confidence and it propels them to pursue and achieve their dreams and aspirations.”

The bill would give school districts resources to recruit, support and mentor teachers of color. The funds could also be used to create career pathways so that teachers can pursue administrative positions, as well as to help districts implement practices that improve school climates.

If passed, the bill would sunset on Jan. 1, 2027.