A Case for Investing in the Golden State Teacher Grant Program

The Golden State Teacher Grant (GSTG) Program is a financial incentive program for newly credentialed educators who commit to teaching in high-needs schools for multiple years.

​

Since its launch, the GSTG Program has helped influence more than 22,000 qualified teachers to serve in high-needs schools—providing hundreds of thousands of students with greater access to qualified teachers.

​

The Governor’s proposed 2026 California State Budget of $348.9 billion includes just $14.4 million in previously committed funds—far short of what’s needed to meet demand.

​

Historically, the GSTG Program has been funded with an annual budget of nearly $100 million. At the proposed funding level, it would reach fewer than 1,500 teachers, significantly reducing the program’s impact on high-needs schools.

​

​