Teacher Track
Growing the Next Generation of Educators
California continues to face a critical shortage of qualified teachers. While many solutions are being discussed statewide, one urgent challenge remains clear: the pipeline of future educators is shrinking.
Above & Beyond Teaching’s Teacher Leadership Academy was created to support and retain exceptional educators once they enter the profession. By providing meaningful mentorship, professional community, and active expertise, the Academy strengthens teacher confidence and measurably increases classroom retention. But retention alone is not enough. We must also inspire the next generation to step forward
That is where Teacher Track begins.
Building the Pipeline Early
Teacher Track is a new initiative designed to increase the number of future educators by engaging students while they are still in high school. Through a learn-by-doing model, students gain real insight into the skills, pathways, and deep personal fulfillment involved in a career in education.
Many California public schools once had strong “future teacher” clubs. Today, as education budgets continue to tighten, those programs have largely disappeared. Yet there are bright, capable students in every community who could become extraordinary teachers. What they often lack is encouragement, exposure, and structured support. Teacher Track provides exactly that.
Inspired by Great Teachers
The Carlston Award–winning Honorees of Above & Beyond represent some of California’s most extraordinary educators. They are deeply dedicated professionals who connect with students in meaningful and lasting ways. They model selflessness, intellectual curiosity, and an unwavering belief in young people.
Every excellent teacher was once a student inspired by a role model. Teacher Track intentionally strengthens that student–teacher connection by creating structured opportunities for mentorship, visibility, and encouragement.
What Teacher Track Clubs Provide
Teacher Track supports the establishment of high school clubs focused on informing, encouraging, and recruiting promising students to explore careers in public education.
Through participation, students will have opportunities to:
Gain practical classroom-related experience
Explore college and credentialing pathways
Earn concurrent college credit where available
Become eligible for scholarships supporting first-year college materials and books
These clubs are designed to be both invitational and inclusive.
Led by Educators Who Model Excellence
Above & Beyond Honorees and Teacher Leadership Academy Early Career Teachers are invited to serve as club sponsors at their school sites. Sponsors will lead club meetings, coordinate activities in alignment with school or district procedures, and help cultivate a strong and welcoming community.
Teachers across each campus will also be encouraged to nominate two or three students who demonstrate the potential to become outstanding educators. These students will receive a personal invitation to join Teacher Track, while the club remains open to all interested students.
Teacher Track is more than a club. It is an investment in the long-term health of public education in California. By nurturing future teachers early, strengthening mentorship, and building community across generations of educators, we ensure that the profession continues to attract the talent, heart, and leadership our students deserve.
