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calTPA

The California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA) is a state mandated assessment for all credential candidates (single subject, multiple subject, education specialists, and PK-3), requiring you to understand and demonstrate aspects of all the adopted California Teacher Performance Expectations (TPE’s), a set of standards that clearly outline what beginning teachers should know and be able to do before receiving a Preliminary credential.  It is considered by many to be the highest standard of teaching performance ever expected by teachers for credentialing.    

Watch a by Dr. Devin Beasley, CalTPA Coordinator.

The CalTPA is designed to measure a candidates knowledge, skills and ability with relation to California's Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs), structured around two full instructional cycles based on the pedagogical sequence of plan, teach and assess, reflect, and apply, each conducted within a classroom environment.  

The CalTPA is administered by Evaluation Systems Group of Pearson. Registration for the CalTPA Cycles and submission of the CalTPA cycles is done through the Candidates can find the submission and reporting dates and further information on the CalTPA at this website. 

CalTPA Credential Program Information

Candidates in the multiple subject, single subject, education specialists and PK3 credential programs receive support for the completion of the CalTPA Cycles through their Student Teaching Seminar course.

Workshops are also offered annually to provide additional support for candidates currently enrolled in student teaching and are still working to pass the CalTPA cycles.

Candidates will receive access to the assessment materials and other supporting documents during their Student Teaching Seminar course.

Dr. Beasley hosts a bi-monthly CalTPA Cafe on Wednesdays, 3:30-4:40pm () where he provides support through answering general questions related to the CalTPA. All CSUDH candidates are welcome to login and learn more about the expectations of the CalTPA. 

Coaching & Support for Non-Passing

Candidates that attempt and do not pass one or more of the CalTPA cycles may reach out to their program for support and assistance in resubmitting their CalTPA cycle(s).

Candidates that submit and do not pass one or more cycles are required to consult with the CalTPA Coordinator to determine the most effective approach in revising and resubmitting their CalTPA cycle(s).

Candidates that submit and do not pass are encouraged to register for the CalTPA Support course offered through the College of Continuing and Professional Education to receive ongoing support and access to all resources.

Candidates that submit and do not pass are also encouraged to participate in the CalTPA Workshop conducted by the CalTPA Coordinator once a year to receive additional instruction and support towards completing their CalTPA cycle(s).

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing offers weekly CalTPA Candidate Office Hours via Zoom where candidates may ask questions directly from the CTC. Office hours are held each Wednesday from 4:15pm - 5:00pm. 

Helpful Resources

 - This is where you can find all the information related to the CalTPA including how much it costs, how to register as well as policies and some preparation materials to help in completing the assessment.

Assessment Guides and specific templates will be provided by your program at the beginning of the student teaching semester. 

 – All versions of the CalTPA require candidates to video record teaching lessons. For students to legally appear on camera, they must have a release on file with the school. Check with your school or district to verify that appropriate permissions are on file from the parents/guardians/families of students and from adults who appear in any video recording, including video captured in an online setting.

If the appropriate permissions are not on file with your school or district, you may use/adapt the sample consent forms provided for your reference on the California Educator Credentialing Assessments website.

CalTPA FAQs

What is the CalTPA?

CalTPA stands for the California Teaching Performance Assessment. The California Teaching Performance Assessment is a state-mandated assessment required for all candidates for a Multiple Subject, Single Subject or Ed Specialist Credential. The TPA is similar to other state-required assessments, such as CBEST, CSET and RICA.  The TPA is designed to assess candidate performance on the Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs).  There are 2 cycles (or 2 parts) of the CalTPA that must be passed before a teacher candidate is recommended for a preliminary teaching credential.

Who is required to complete the CalTPA?

All teacher candidates who wish to receive a Preliminary Teaching Credential must successfully pass both of the TPA Cycles.  

When should the CalTPA be completed?

All Teacher Candidates will need to complete Cycles 1 and 2 of the CalTPA during their supervised teaching whether it be Student Teaching or Internship.

Where do I go for support of help with my CalTPA?

Support, instruction, and assistance in completing your CalTPA’s will be provided during Phase III of your program, when you enroll in student teaching - TED 435/455 and TED 448/488. If you are in need of additional support, you may contact the CalTPA Coordinator.   

When do I need to submit or complete my CalTPA?

You are expected to submit and complete your CalTPA's (Cycles 1 and 2) during Phase III of your credential program.  Materials are expected to be completed during TED 435/455 and TED 448/488.

I didn't pass my CalTPA. What do I do now?

All failing scores and condition code scores require the candidate to resubmit their TPA. You must review your content, revise and record new lesson videos if required, register through the Pearson site again, pay any applicable fees, and submit your next attempt on that Cycle. 

Can I be recommended for a preliminary credential in other ways instead of completing the CalTPA?

No. All teacher candidates must pass both CalTPA cycles to be recommended for a preliminary teaching credential, regardless of coursework or teaching experience.