Teaching in Northern California: A Quick Guide

Foreign teachers with 5 or more years of teaching experience who wish to work in Northern California must meet specific eligibility criteria:

Requirements for Foreign Teachers

Foreign teachers with 5 or more years of teaching experience who wish to work in Northern California must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. Exchange Visitor Program for Teachers:

   • Apply in your home country and receive initial screening from the Ministry or Secretary of Public Education.

   • Meet the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) requirements.

   • Visiting teachers can stay in a school district or charter school for up to three years, with possible extensions¹.

2. Credentialing:

   • Obtain the Education Specialist Instruction Credential to teach special education.

   • Credential programs are available through colleges, universities, and intern programs.

   • California has a 5-year vesting period for teachers².

Benefits and Pay Range

• Salary:

  • First-year teacher: May start at $45,000 and above (varies by district).

  • Teacher with 5 years of experience: May start at $46,900 and above (varies by district).

  • Teacher with 5 years of experience and a Master’s Degree: May start at $49,600 and above (varies by district)¹.

• Pensions and Compensation Plans:

  • California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS) manages teacher pensions.

  • Vesting period: 5 years.

  • Retirement eligibility: Full benefits at age 62 with 5 years of service or early retirement at age 55 with reduced benefits³.

Licensing and Credentialing Resources

• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC):

  • Official CCTC Website

• Prepare to be a Special Educator:

  • TEACH California - Special Education

Top 5 Cities in Northern California

1. San Francisco:

   • Pros: Vibrant culture, job opportunities, scenic beauty.

   • Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion.

2. Sacramento:

   • Pros: Affordable (for California standards), growing job market.

   • Cons: Hot summers, limited public transportation⁴.

3. San Jose:

   • Pros: Tech hub, high salaries.

   • Cons: Expensive housing, traffic.

4. Los Angeles:

   • Pros: Entertainment industry, diverse culture.

   • Cons: Traffic, pollution.

5. San Diego:

   • Pros: Beautiful beaches, mild climate.

   • Cons: Housing costs, crowded areas⁵.

Remember to explore official resources for detailed information and make informed decisions about your teaching career in Northern California!