California releases long-awaited teacher data, revealing demographic shifts

Juniors attend a U.S. History class at Oakland Technical High School in Oakland, Calif., May 1, 2017. Credit: Alison Yin / EdSource

California’s Department of Education has released new statewide data through the 2023–24 school year via DataQuest, providing valuable insights into teacher counts, demographics, staff experience, and student–staff ratios. The data reveal modest overall growth in the teacher workforce, with notable gains in places like Fresno and declines in counties such as Napa. Demographic shifts show a significant increase in Hispanic teachers and decreases among white and Black teachers, with modest growth among Asian, Filipino, American Indian, and Pacific Islander educators. Administrator and pupil services staff numbers have also risen considerably over the past five years.

Natalie Wheatfall‑Lum, Director of TK‑12 Policy at The Education Trust–West, emphasized that access to this type of disaggregated data is crucial for recruiting and retaining a diverse teaching workforce, noting the powerful impact teachers of color have on student success. We are especially proud to highlight that Natalie is a Class of 2024 African American Women LeadStrong alum, part of LeaderSpring Center’s fellowship for women of color advancing equity and justice in leadership. Her contributions underscore how intentional leadership development and policy advocacy can work hand in hand to drive meaningful change in California’s education system.

Learn more about Education Trust–West, Inc: https://west.edtrust.org/