California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP)

The California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP) are a set of professional standards that guide the practice and development of teachers in California. These standards provide a framework for effective teaching and serve as a foundation for teacher preparation, evaluation, and professional development.

Key points about the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP) include:

  • Development: The CSTP was developed by the California Department of Education (CDE) in collaboration with educators, teacher preparation programs, and stakeholders.
  • Framework: The CSTP consists of five interrelated standards that describe the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that effective teachers should possess. These standards are organized into the following domains:
    1. Domain 1: Engaging and Supporting All Students in Learning
    2. Domain 2: Creating and Maintaining Effective Environments for Student Learning
    3. Domain 3: Understanding and Organizing Subject Matter for Student Learning
    4. Domain 4: Planning Instruction and Designing Learning Experiences for All Students
    5. Domain 5: Assessing Student Learning
  • Teacher Evaluation: The CSTP serves as the basis for teacher evaluation and professional growth in California. They guide the assessment of teacher performance in the classroom.
  • Professional Development: The CSTP informs the design of professional development programs and opportunities for teachers to enhance their instructional practices.
  • Alignment with California Content Standards: The CSTP are aligned with the California content standards and curriculum frameworks, ensuring that teachers are prepared to help students meet state academic standards.
  • Reflection and Improvement: Teachers use the CSTP as a tool for self-reflection and continuous improvement in their teaching practice.
  • Alignment with Teacher Preparation: The CSTP influences teacher preparation programs in California by providing a framework for the development of future educators.
  • Equity and Inclusivity: The CSTP emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and equitable learning environments where all students have the opportunity to succeed.
The CSTP plays a central role in the professional development and evaluation of teachers in California, contributing to the ongoing improvement of education in the state.

Related terms

Professional development is the ongoing process of acquiring skills and knowledge to enhance career growth and job performance.

Content standards are guidelines that define what students should know and be able to do at various grade levels across subjects.

Curriculum Frameworks are structured documents that guide educators in implementing educational standards effectively in their teaching practices.

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