Two Systems, One Sector
California public education employees are generally covered by one of two major public pension systems: CalSTRS or CalPERS. Which one applies to you depends on your specific position and employer, not simply on the fact that you work in a school.
CalSTRS: Certificated Teaching Service
CalSTRS is commonly associated with certificated teaching positions - classroom teachers, and in many cases other certificated staff. See our CalSTRS pension formula guide for how that system's benefit is calculated.
CalPERS: A Broader Public Agency System
CalPERS may apply to many public agency and education employees depending on position and employer, including classified staff, many administrators, and other public education personnel. See our CalPERS education employees guide for a general overview.
Why the Distinction Matters
The specific formulas, benefit rules, and planning considerations can differ meaningfully between the two systems. Assuming the wrong system applies to you - or not confirming which one does - can lead to inaccurate expectations about your eventual pension income.
The Shared Question
Regardless of which system covers you, the core question is identical: what will your pension actually provide, and will it be enough to cover your retirement needs? A public education retirement review addresses this question using your own numbers and your own system.