California's Teacher Shortage: Current Data and Statistics in 2025

Is there a teacher shortage in California? The answer is yes, but there is more to it than that. High demand and low supply of certified educators have affected nearly all fifty states in the U.S. Nearly 90% of schools say they have trouble filling vacant teaching positions, over 50% of schools struggle to find substitute teachers, and 70% of educators say their schools are understaffed. Nearly 407,000 teaching positions are either unfilled or filled by instructors who aren't fully certified for their positions. Moreover, only 16% of current teachers would recommend the teaching profession to others, which means that, unless current circumstances change, the current teacher shortage will likely be a long-term problem.

While California's teacher shortage problem may not be as acute as that in other states, it is still critical. School districts throughout the state are finding it difficult, or in some cases even impossible, to find qualified instructors.

Deep-Diving Into California's Teacher Shortage Statistics

• There are over 10,000 teacher vacancies in California.
• Fields where California's teacher shortage is felt most acutely include elementary educators, English language arts teachers, math teachers, science teachers, and special education teachers.
• The number of new teaching credentials the state of California issues new teachers is declining. The decline is most acute in multiple-subject credentials, special education credentials, and single-subject credentials typically needed by instructors teaching higher grades.‍
• Fewer than 79% of public high school teachers in the state of California have a major in their main assignment area.‍
• Over 32,200 teachers in California aren't qualified for their teaching positions.
• California has one of the highest student-to-teacher ratios in the country, with nearly 46 learners for every teacher.‍
• In June 2024, California passed a law stating that aspiring teachers only need a bachelor's degree or a higher degree in any subject to become teachers. This means that student teachers no longer need to sign up for teacher preparation programs to verify competence in basic skills such as math, reading, and writing. While the law is designed to address teacher shortages, there is concern that it will lead to a greater number of underprepared teachers who don't have the training or expertise needed to work in the state's public education industry.
• A whopping 40% of California teachers are considering leaving their jobs. About half of the teachers in this group say they will definitely or almost certainly leave their jobs in the next one to three years. This means that, unfortunately, California's teacher shortage will worsen in the coming years.

Why is There a Teacher Shortage?

The California Teacher's Association highlights some of the main reasons why qualified teachers want to leave the profession. These reasons include:

• Financial pressures. Over 80% of California teachers say they can't afford to live near their schools or keep up with the rising cost of essential expenses such as groceries and childcare. High healthcare costs are also a concern, as some instructors pay as much as $1,500 per month for healthcare even though they have health insurance.
• Rising housing costs. Affordable housing isn't easy to find in the Golden State. Over 90% of teachers who pay rent say they can't afford to buy a home. This isn't surprising considering the fact California real estate is the second most expensive in the nation. The average value of a home is an eye-popping $786,938.
• Inadequate resources. Over 90% of teachers in California say they routinely spend their own money to help students. Over 80% of teachers say the state and/or school districts don't provide adequate resources.
• Staffing Shortages. Nearly 70% of California teachers say there isn't enough support for their students' mental health issues. Over 75% say that classes are overcrowded. The lack of support staff is both a symptom of the current teacher shortage and one of its main causes.‍
• The CTA also points out that student teachers need compensation in order to finish training. Over 70% of aspiring teachers say that financial costs make it difficult to finish teacher preparation programs.‍
• Lack of support for minority teachers. Over half of African American, Asian American, and Pacific Islander teachers state they have experienced racial discrimination in California's public school system.

What is the Solution to the Current Teacher Shortage?

School districts can't solve all the root problems causing the current teacher shortage. However, there is something that can be done to ensure that California students receive a top-tier education. Switching in-person classes to a virtual synchronous learning model gives learners access to certified, qualified teachers from around the United States. Instead of struggling to fill teaching positions with local candidates, school districts can access a huge array of classes led by credentialed teachers who have the experience and passion needed to make learning fun and effective.

What is Virtual Synchronous Learning?

Virtual synchronous learning typically takes place in a school classroom. Children come to school as usual; however, instead of an in-person teacher, there is a livestream class that includes games, pop quizzes, and other strategies to keep learners engaged and gauge their comprehension of the material being taught. Learners can ask questions in real time and get immediate answers. They can work with fellow learners either in the classroom or online in breakout rooms. Students with special needs can receive special education accommodations either during regular classes or in a separate virtual classroom. All classes take place on the school's bell schedule.

Virtual synchronous learning is a great option for schools struggling to find qualified teachers for core subjects. However, many platforms offer a host of other classes that aren't part of a core curriculum but are still beneficial to students. These include world language classes, elective courses, CTEs, and AP prep classes for high school students. California school districts can add these classes to any year's curriculum as needed and then remove or replace them if student interest wanes.

School districts that work with a virtual synchronous education platform receive regular updates on student progress, teacher performance, and more. There are open channels of communication so problems or challenges can be resolved as they arise. Furthermore, tech support is always available to troubleshoot problems with IT equipment or the internet connection.

Why Work with Proximity Learning?

Are you looking for credentialed teachers who can offer learners a top-tier education? Do you need special education classes and services? Are you looking for specific classes that will help aspiring college students prepare for a future career? If so, Proximity Learning can be an ideal partner for your school district.

We have more than fifteen years of experience providing livestream classes to public elementary schools, secondary schools, and high schools. All our teachers are certified and experienced. We offer core classes and many other classes, all on your school's bell schedule. We also provide a clear onboarding process, communicate regularly with your district administration staff, and provide virtual case management services for special education students.

Don't let the lack of new teachers limit your learner's ability to reach their full potential. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to start the onboarding process for your school.

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