Los Angeles [CALIFORNIA] Unified School District (LAUSD): A Guide for Foreign Teachers
LAUSD is the 2nd largest school district in the USA with over 600,000 students currently enrolled! Foreign teachers with 5 or more years of teaching experience can find rewarding opportunities here!
Teaching Requirements and Credentialing
Foreign educators can become teachers in California by earning a teaching credential prior to entering the classroom. Here are the steps:
Transcript Evaluation: If you completed teacher training outside the United States, you must have your transcripts evaluated by a Commission-approved foreign transcript evaluation agency. The evaluation should show a bachelor’s degree and a teacher preparation program that includes student teaching1.
Credential Types:
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential: For elementary school teachers.
Single Subject Teaching Credential: For middle and secondary school teachers.
Education Specialist Instruction Credential: For special education teachers.
Renewal Requirements:
Most foreign educators receive an initial or “Preliminary” credential, which is valid for 5 years. They must complete renewal requirements during this period to obtain a Clear credential.
Once a Clear credential is issued, it can be renewed online every 5 years.
English Learner Authorization:
Teachers serving English learners may need an English Learner Authorization.
Emergency CLAD Permit:
In some cases, an Emergency CLAD Permit may be granted.
For official information, visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) website2.
Compensation and Pay Range
LAUSD’s salary structure varies based on experience and credentials.
As of 2024, the salary range for teachers with regular credentials (bachelor’s degree) is as follows:
First-year teacher: May start at $60,000 and above.
Teacher with 5 years of experience: May start at $70,000 and above.
Teacher with 5 years of experience and a Master of Arts Degree: May start at $80,000 and above.
Career increments are available for longevity of service.
*** LAUSD uses a “Points System” to determine advancement on their pay scale:
A salary point is a unit of measure used by the District to determine placement or advancement on the salary table. A salary point is equivalent to one semester unit or 1.5 quarter units. A semester unit, as determined by the University of California, requires a minimum of 15 contact hours with an instructor and 30 hours of outside preparation.
Pensions and Retirement
LAUSD teachers contribute to the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS).
The average monthly pension from CalSTRS is around $3,300, equivalent to $39,600 annually.
CalSTRS provides retirement benefits to educators and is the largest educator-only public pension fund globally.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of Teaching in Los Angeles:
Diverse Student Population: Exposure to a rich cultural mix.
Professional Development Opportunities: Access to conferences, workshops, and networking.
Career Growth: Opportunities for leadership roles.
Urban Amenities: Entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions.
Disadvantages of Teaching in Los Angeles:
Cost of Living: High housing costs and overall expenses.
Traffic Congestion: Frequent traffic jams.
Class Sizes: Large class sizes in some schools.
Challenges in High-Needs Schools: Some schools face resource shortages and student behavioral issues.
Comparing Los Angeles with Riverside and San Bernardino:
Riverside:
Lower cost of living compared to LA.
Smaller community feel.
Proximity to natural attractions (e.g., mountains, lakes).
San Bernardino:
Similar advantages to Riverside.
Some areas face economic challenges.
Considerably lower cost of living than LA.
In summary, teaching in LA offers diverse experiences but comes with higher costs.
*** Riverside and San Bernardino provide a more affordable lifestyle but with few urban amenities.