Due to the high costs associated with obtaining the desired results, only 2500 of the state's 10,000 new teachers each year are able to participate in the program. The Mentor Teacher Program, which gives mentors a stipend to develop mentor designed projects, is one way that districts support their new teachers. The program also provides an indirect professional development opportunity for the mentors, and can be a source of capacity building for all involved. CSLA programs focus on developing instructional leadership congruent with state reform activities and has served 8000 to 9000 administrators, mostly principals. The CSLA also works with other state initiatives.
Teacher credentialing is another component of California's systemic reform.
While the legislature is responsible for many of the changes in the credentialing system, they are highly influenced by recommendations from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Composed entirely of teachers, it has several areas of responsibility. Commission staff handle applications for credentials, prepare studies and reports for use by the Commission, handle misconduct and other disciplinary matters. The Commission is also involved in national efforts to develop teaching standards and professionalize the teaching force. The Commission has undertaken a comprehensive review of the basic teaching credential requirements and standards.