Teacher Training Pathway

California is projecting a significant shortage of qualified teachers in the next five years—particularly in areas such as math and science. One solution is to expand the pool of candidates through training disadvantaged youth and adults, as well as veterans and dislocated workers to become teachers in their communities. Growth Sector is working with community organizations, community colleges, workforce agencies and state universities to create a pathway to teaching. The accelerated 4.5 year pathway incorporates community college and state university training leading to a teaching certificate and employment. Students will work as tutors, counselors and assistants in after-school programs throughout their pathway experience, receiving a package of $15,000 to $20,000 per year to support college attendance, while providing valuable work experience.

Growth Sector Role: Growth Sector helped develop the vision for the after-school-teacher pathway, and is helping to form partnerships, develop program models and secure resources and support for program expansion.

Partners: Partners include the Packard Foundation, community colleges and California State University campuses in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and San Diego, as well as workforce agencies in these regions. The South Bay Center for Community Development in Los Angeles is helping Growth Sector develop a statewide replication strategy.

Funder: The David and Lucile Packard Foundation.

Funders: The City of Oakland and the State of California.

Flowchart: Click here