To participate in CalTeach, you simply need to be interested in teaching -- either teaching at the elementary school level or teaching mathematics or science at the secondary school level.
Enroll in one of our courses or contact Karin Lohwasser.
To begin the CalTeach program, you typically start with a CaT 1 (ED 128 or ED 129) or a CaT 2 (Ed 130 or ED 131) course. These courses serve as introductions to mathematics or science education and include a field placement at a local school. You can take one or several of these courses. They can be taken in any order.
If you enjoy these courses, you may want to consider pursuing the Minor in Science and Mathematics Education.
Yes, you are welcome to enroll in the introductory courses, CaT 1 or CaT 2, to learn more about science and mathematics education and explore the idea of a teaching career.
You will need to complete a teacher credential program in order to get a teaching credential. There are many different options available, including the Teacher Education Program here at UCSB.
YES. California and other states across the country have shortages of credentialed teachers, particularly teachers of science and mathematics in grades 7-12. Many of California's teachers are expected to retire in the next decade. As a result, newly credentialed science and mathematics teachers are sought after by districts across California.
Salaries vary between school districts and generally are based on experience and college or professional development units completed beyond the bachelor's degree. Some districts pay bonuses for advanced degrees or extra duty. The 2023-24 National Education Association figures show that the average starting salary for a teacher in California was $55,283.
Dr. Karin Lohwasser at loh2o@ucsb.edu or Dr. Julie Bianchini at julie.bianchini@ucsb.edu
The CalTeach students are not enrolled in a graduate teacher education program. While they have expressed an interest in teaching, they have not necessarily made a commitment to pursue a teaching career. They will spend approximately 2 hours per week in your room observing your classroom practice, working with individuals or small groups of students, and possibly leading an activity or portion of a lesson.
Because of the popularity of our program, there may be a need to place more than one CalTeach student in a classroom. If this would be helpful for you and your students, please contact Katie Blackwell at kblackwell@ucsb.edu.