April 04, by Sarah Fudin. In the state public school system, teacher salary in California is determined by individual school districts. The second and third highest paying districts are both located in Santa Clara County, which is also home howw Silicon Valley. Across the state, starting teacher salaries are considerably lower than district average salaries. These include health insurance, paid leave and retirement benefits. There are also state and national programs that provide bonuses, loan forgiveness and other financial incentives for teachers. Despite some staff reductions, California has an increasing long-term need for teachers, especially in high-need subject areas like yaer education, math and science. Increases in both tfachers number of retiring teachers and in the number of students will fuel the demand for teachers in districts throughout the state. There is a common belief that private school teachers capifornia higher salaries than teachers in public schools, but accord...