Because California lacks a statewide teacher data system, serious gaps in the collection, use, and availability of teacher workforce data compromise efforts to plan and monitor the workforce at both the state and local levels, leaving policymakers and education officials with little in-depth understanding of the current shortage of qualified teachers, the inequitable distribution of fully qualified teachers, or a clear picture of future workforce needs. This policy brief is based on the experience and insight gained by The Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning and SRI International in their joint efforts to document the status of the teaching profession in California and related public policy issues. The intent of this policy brief is to call attention to simple, straightforward ways in which the current system of data collection can be improved to provide answers to policymakers' most pressing questions about the teacher workforce. The brief illustrates how the existing data system can be made more efficient and effective, and it proposes how high-quality data required to answer relevant questions from policymakers and the public can be made available in a way that protects individual privacy. (Contains 2 exhibits.)