Master the fundamentals of CalSTRS to support accurate reporting and compliance.

Navigating retirement systems doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This workshop will break down the essentials of the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS), giving you a clear and practical understanding of how the defined benefit plan works and what it means for you as an employer.

We’ll walk through key administrative responsibilities, highlight the laws and regulations that guide compliance, and simplify employer reporting requirements so you can approach them with confidence. Along the way, you’ll gain helpful insights and real-world context to make these concepts easier to apply in your day-to-day work.

Participants will also receive a useful reference handout outlining key differences between California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and CalSTRS—perfect for keeping at your fingertips long after the session ends.

Whether you’re new to retirement reporting or looking for a clearer, more streamlined understanding, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate with confidence.

Live Virtual Workshop
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

3.0 CEUs

Who Should Attend

Payroll, Accounting, and Human Resources staff.

What You Will Learn

Participants will learn how to:

• Explain the basic federal and state laws and regulations related to the California State Teachers’ Retirement System and how they impact employer responsibilities.
• Access and use key resources, including relevant Education Codes and tools available on the CalSTRS website, to support compliance and informed decision-making.
• Identify and interpret important Education Code provisions related to membership eligibility, contribution limits, elections, reduced workload programs, Social Security requirements, special compensation, dual membership, excess sick leave, and the requirements for hiring retired annuitants.
• Determine which employees qualify for CalSTRS membership, including identifying employees who do not qualify at the time of hire.
• Describe key administrative responsibilities and employer reporting requirements, and apply best practices to ensure accurate and compliant reporting.
• Recognize the key differences between California Public Employees’ Retirement System and CalSTRS, using provided reference materials to support day-to-day work.

Featured Presenter

Brenda Boothe, Payroll/Retirement Consultant

Brenda Boothe retired in 2018 after a 33-year career in school business, specializing in payroll and retirement while serving two fiscally independent school districts and the Contra Costa County Office of Education. She has also consulted as a Payroll Adviser for two software companies and has been presenting payroll and retirement workshops for CASBO since 1996.

Registration

Registration & Access

Early Bird Deadline: September 2, 2026
Cancellation Deadline: September 18, 2026
Registration Closes: September 23, 2026
Cancellation Fee: $45

Participants will receive a Zoom link upon registration and again in a reminder email approximately four business days before the workshop.