Job market for secondary teachers in Los Angeles?

Question

I keep reading mixed reviews of the LA teaching job market. Some sources say that they are desperate for teachers- especially math, science and special ed. So much so that they have intern and alternative credential programs to get people in. I've also read that California as a whole is desperate for teachers and the state is recruiting potential educators from other states.

Then, I've found articles saying that it is tough for new teachers to find jobs right now in California because of budget cuts. I've read that a lot of positions are being closed and that there is a hiring freeze on certain jobs.

The government-both federal and CA- web sites say that the job outlook for teachers is favorable and the number of open positions is growing.

Which is true?

I'm about to finish an MA in English, and I want to earn secondary credentials to work in L.A. Do I stand a chance at getting a job teaching English anywhere in that area in two years?

Answer 1

Here is Los Angeles Unified recruitment web page - they specifically mention needs for math, science, special ed, physical ed and speech pathologists.

http://www.teachinla.com/

I know that Villaraigosa's partnership is recruiting teachers to work at their schools.

The reason that you are hearing negative things about the market is that we are especially vulnerable to state budget fluctuations in California. With the current uncertainty about the budget, my district has closed many administration office jobs, and out of the classroom coaching jobs - All those people will be taking teaching positions.

We do have a 50 percent new teacher turnover rate - so I think you will have no trouble finding a job -- *unless* you are not willing to work anywhere.

When I first started - I wanted to work in a near suburban city - that wouldnt even look at me because of how new I was. Most of the teachers there had been in the district for 20 years or more - the only way to get in was retirement. I chose an urban school - and am so happy I did - Ive been in downtown LA for 16 years - and plan to be here until I retire.