Supporting California’s Charter Public School Teachers
New CCSA report examines the charter public school educator workforce, their challenges, and the solutions
By Myrna Castrejón, President & CEO, California Charter Schools Association
As I visit charter schools across the state, without question, the best experience of every school visit is to be able to walk into classrooms and see the bright faces of students that are engaged in their education. The joy and inspiration that I see in the eyes of students are a direct reflection of the valiant teachers leading those classrooms.
And in my recent visits to Larchmont Charter School and Granada High School to attend their graduation festivities, the reason for the classroom joy is evident when meeting the teachers that have made every graduation success journey possible. I’m in awe of their passion for their students, the deep and intentional way in which they connect with their students authentically, the pride with which they embrace each student as if they were their own children, and the spirit of belonging they create with fellow teachers that builds a positive school culture. That’s what classroom joy is made of.
Recognizing the significance of educators, it becomes crucial to emphasize the importance of supporting and empowering teachers once they are in the classroom. The promise of California’s charter public school system was to center equity and allow teachers to bring an entrepreneurial mindset to public education. Teachers are drawn to charters because of the ability to innovate and develop new methods to reach students and have a positive effect on those who might have otherwise fallen through the cracks in a traditional environment.
That’s why CCSA’s latest report, The Face of California’s Charter Public School Teachers 2023, is a critical piece of research for the public and policymakers because it not only looks at who makes up the Golden State’s charter teacher workforce but delves into the pressures they face and what can be done to better support them in the classroom.
First, let’s break down the numbers:
There are approximately 30,000 charter public school teachers in California — 10 percent of the overall public teacher workforce — who educate approximately 685,000 students every day.
California’s charter public school teachers are racially and ethnically diverse. Twenty-one percent of charter public school teachers are Latino, 6 percent are Asian, and 5 percent are Black. In terms of educational attainment, Asian and Black charter public school teachers are more likely to have advanced degrees than their peers. Native American/Indigenous, Asian, and Filipino charter public school teachers are most likely to be tenured, at 27 percent.
Now, let’s focus on the challenges and, more importantly, the solutions.
Based on teacher interviews that were conducted for CCSA’s report, the largest challenges teachers say they face include limited resources, large class sizes, and heavy administrative burdens. The report found that to create a conducive learning environment and enhance educational outcomes, it is imperative to empower teachers.
The report’s findings highlighted six key strategies that can make a substantial difference for teachers:
Professional Development: Providing regular professional development opportunities allows teachers to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies, educational technologies, and pedagogical research. This empowers them to incorporate innovative techniques into their classrooms, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Adequate Resources and Technology: Equipping teachers with the necessary resources, including up-to-date textbooks, teaching aids, and technology tools, enables them to create enriching learning experiences. Investments in digital infrastructure can promote interactive and collaborative learning, preparing students for the demands of the 21st-century workforce.
Reducing Administrative Burdens: Streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles can free up teachers’ time, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: teaching. Embracing technology to automate administrative tasks can alleviate the burden and enable educators to dedicate more energy to student-centered instruction.
Smaller Class Sizes and Support: Reducing class sizes and providing adequate support staff, such as teaching assistants, counselors, and special education professionals can ensure that every student receives the attention and support they need. Smaller classes enable teachers to personalize instruction, address individual learning needs, and foster stronger student-teacher relationships.
Creating collaborative learning communities: As the charter model fosters a culture of collaboration, teachers are more empowered to share best practices, exchange ideas, and collectively address challenges. Professional learning communities, mentorship programs, and peer observation initiatives offer platforms for teachers to engage in reflective practices and continuous improvement.
Recognition: Celebrating the invaluable contributions of teachers is paramount in empowering them. It is essential to acknowledge their dedication, provide fair compensation, and establish supportive working conditions to keep teachers motivated. Offering mentorship programs, counseling services, and avenues for professional growth demonstrates the commitment to teachers’ holistic well-being.
Empowering teachers by providing them with the necessary resources, professional development opportunities, and support systems is critical to ensuring quality education. By valuing and empowering teachers, we can create an educational ecosystem that nurtures the potential of every student and prepares them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Let us work together to champion the cause of teachers, for their success is intertwined with the success of generations to come in California.
— — —
To read “The Face of California’s Charter Public School Teachers 2023,” click here.
CCSA hosted a live-streamed discussion with one of the authors of the report and two charter public school teachers who were interviewed as part of the research. The video of the event can be found on CCSA’s YouTube channel here.
