California voters are heading to the polls to decide the future of the state’s education system and its funding. Among the key decisions are the races for governor and superintendent of public instruction, as well as two propositions that could bring in billions of dollars for schools.
A new structure for overseeing schools
Starting January 1, California will implement a new structure for overseeing its schools. The incoming governor, either Democrat Xavier Becerra or Republican Steve Hilton, will appoint an education commissioner to manage the California Department of Education. This responsibility has traditionally been held by the elected state superintendent of public instruction.
The change, approved in July as part of budget negotiations, aims to better align education policy with the implementation of state programs and oversight of schools. However, critics argue that it is a power grab by the governor, stripping authority from the state’s top education official.
The candidates for governor have differing views on education. Becerra supports tuition-free community colleges, investments in early childhood education, and increased support for teachers. Hilton, on the other hand, advocates for expanding school choice, making it easier to remove underperforming teachers, and halting funding for community schools.
Contrasting views among superintendent candidates
The race for state superintendent of public instruction also features contrasting candidates. Sonja Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified school board, and Richard Barrera, president of the San Diego Unified school board, have opposing views on how to improve California’s education system.
Barrera campaigns for increased school funding and supports Proposition 3, which extends a tax on the state’s top earners. Shaw, however, aims to reduce state bureaucracy and direct more funds to classrooms without increasing overall funding. She also opposes policies that allow transgender students to participate in girls’ sports and prohibit teachers from informing parents about a student’s gender identity.
For families and educators, the outcome of these races could mean significant changes in how schools are funded and managed. While Barrera’s focus on increased funding and inclusivity aligns with broader calls for equity, Shaw’s emphasis on reducing bureaucracy may appeal to those seeking more direct classroom support.
California voters are also considering two propositions that could bring in substantial funding for schools. Proposition 3 would continue a state income tax on the top 2% of earners, adding $5 billion to $15 billion to the general fund annually, with 40% allocated to schools and community colleges. Proposition 40 proposes a one-time 5% tax on the assets of billionaires, primarily funding healthcare but allocating 10% to education.
Additionally, school districts across the state are seeking funding through bond measures to modernize and repair schools. These bonds would be added to homeowners’ property taxes.
Due to the large number of mailed ballots, final results may not be known on election night. Counties will continue counting ballots in the days following the election.
Education Policies and Stances of Gubernatorial Candidates
He also backs protections for students under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Becerra has not yet released a detailed education plan.
He also supports holding back third graders who cannot read at grade level and halting funding for community schools.
The Role of the Superintendent in the New Structure
Instead, they will serve as a statewide advocate for students, families, and educators, with a voice in education policy from transitional kindergarten to higher education.
The superintendent will also become a voting member of the State Board of Education, which sets policy for TK-12 schools, and a member of the Community College System Board of Governors. This shift in responsibilities reflects a broader change in the state’s approach to education governance.
Propositions and Their Impact on Education Funding
Of this, 40%—or $2 billion to $6 billion—will be allocated to schools and community colleges each year.
While the majority of the revenue will go to healthcare, 10% will be allocated to education. This proposition has sparked debate, with critics arguing it could lead to a loss of tax revenue if high earners leave the state.
These bonds will be added to homeowners’ property taxes, providing a direct investment in local school infrastructure.
