Assemblymember Alvarez’s AB 833 to address teacher shortages in CA unanimously passes Senate

Sacramento, CA – Today, Assembly Bill (AB) 833, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego), passed the Senate with unanimous support and heads to Governor Newsom. AB 833 seeks to address California’s pressing teacher shortage by expanding binational teacher exchange programs, specifically aiming to recruit bilingual educators from Mexico to meet the state’s growing educational demands.

“California’s students deserve access to high-quality, culturally responsive educators—especially in bilingual classrooms where demand far outpaces supply,” said Assemblymember Alvarez. “AB 833 will help bridge this gap by strengthening partnerships with Mexico to allow school districts to bring qualified teachers into our schools as they work to prepare and hire more teachers for the classroom. This is a win for students, families, and our state’s future workforce.”

Amid a growing teacher shortage across California—particularly in STEM and bilingual education—AB 833 presents a timely and sustainable response. By tapping into international talent, this legislation not only helps fill critical vacancies but also enriches classrooms through cross-cultural educational workforce exchange. All teachers in this program must be approved by the Department of Homeland Security.  

“We’re thrilled to see AB 833 moving forward because it not only tackles California’s teacher shortage but also deepens the cultural exchange between the United States and Mexico,” said Jason D. Hammond, CEO of the International Alliance Group (IAG). “Mexican teachers bring so much more than bilingual skills — they bring their stories, traditions, and perspectives that truly enrich classrooms and help students and families feel seen and connected.

AB 833 is sponsored by International Alliance Group. If signed by the Governor, AB 833 would expand California’s acceptance of qualified international temporary teachers from Mexico, allowing them not only to teach bilingual and other subject-area classes, but also to gain valuable cultural experience during their time in the state.

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The 80th Assembly District includes the communities of Barrio Logan, Logan Heights, Sherman Heights, Lincoln Acres, Bonita, Otay Mesa and San Ysidro, along with the cities of Chula Vista, National City and Imperial Beach.