News Update

New partnership with service volunteers aims to boost teacher workforce

California will pair its service volunteer groups with the state Department of Education in an effort to lure more young people to teaching careers, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced last week.

The partnership includes the California Climate Action Corps, AmeriCorps, #CaliforniansForAll Youth Jobs and #CaliforniansForAll College Corps.

More than 10,000 volunteers enrolled in those programs will get access to career fairs and information about scholarships and grants such as the CSAC Golden State Teacher GrantExternal link opens in new window or tab., which provides up to $20,000 for prospective teachers and counselors who agree to work at high-needs schools in California for four years. The first career fair, which will be virtual, is scheduled for Feb. 21.

“Our teachers do incredible work in and out of the classroom every day, but this remains a difficult time,” Thurmond said. “Teacher shortages are a long-term national issue exacerbated by COVID-19, and California is no exception—they are retiring or leaving the profession for other options. We are stepping in to support districts and schools on the issue of teacher recruitment.”

For more information on how to become a teacher in California, call a newly announced hotline at (916) 322-3051 or email TeachInCA@cde.ca.gov.