Overview

California's gubernatorial candidates are urged to prioritize the education deficits within the state's public school system. Recent polling indicates that public education remains a significant concern for voters, with a vast majority believing changes are necessary.

Despite the urgency of the issue, education was scarcely addressed during a recent televised debate among the leading candidates. The candidates' plans for the education sector are critical, especially with the impending changes in leadership and responsibilities regarding education policy.

Key details

  • Public schools have consistently been a concern for California voters, according to years of polling.
  • A recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California revealed that 89% of respondents believe the public school system needs change.
  • California students perform poorly on national academic tests compared to peers in other states.
  • During a recent debate, education was mentioned only once, prompted by a viewer's question directed at candidate Steve Hilton.
  • Hilton suggested learning from successful educational practices in other states as a way to improve California schools.
  • California's education budget for the current year is $81.3 billion, making it the largest item in the state's budget.
  • Outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed downgrading the state school superintendent's role to an advisory position.
  • Future governors will have primary responsibility for education starting next January.
  • California has adopted phonics as an effective method for teaching reading, though it is not yet mandatory.
  • The Senate Education Committee is advancing legislation to address California's low math proficiency rankings.
  • Only 37% of California students meet grade-level expectations in math, placing the state 43rd nationally for fourth-grade math proficiency.
  • There are noticeable achievement gaps between students from low-income families and their more affluent peers.

Context

The ongoing challenges in California's education system highlight the need for candidates to articulate clear strategies for addressing the deficiencies that affect student performance and equity in education.

What happens next

Future debates are expected to focus more on education, allowing candidates to outline their plans for improving academic outcomes and addressing disparities in the school system.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding specific proposals from each candidate on education and the outcomes of the legislation being advanced by the Senate Education Committee are not confirmed.