The research evidence suggests that state leaders should focus on:

Building on current reforms

During the past decade, California’s education system has undergone major reforms that have resulted in improvements, but the system is still in need of capacity building.

Addressing achievement gaps

Large achievement gaps by race, ethnicity, income and English learner status persist in California and need a continued focus through multiple approaches, including enhanced early childhood education.

Increasing funding and fixing systems

Funding for schools in California has improved but remains short of adequate levels given the goals of state policies. Moreover, funding reforms left critical issues unresolved.

Across 36 studies, our researchers found: