Ed Equity Issues

An Education Equity Agenda for California

California faces persistent education challenges that impact students of color, low-income students, English learners, and other underserved groups. The following briefs outline key problems and evidence-based solutions to help inform public dialogue and policy decisions.

Ed Equity Issues

Implementing Early Education Rate Reform: Fully Funding the Mixed-Delivery System of Early Learning and Care

Affordable, high-quality early learning is out of reach for many families. Reforming provider reimbursement rates is key to expanding access and improving quality.

Key Insights:

Most eligible children are not enrolled due to limited funding and access.
Reimbursement rates don’t reflect the true cost of providing quality care.
Low wages and unstable funding threaten the early learning workforce and system quality.

Ed Equity Issues

Ensuring Adequate & Stable Funding for Public Education: Restoring California’s Leadership in Funding Public Education

Ensure schools have the necessary resources to serve all students equitably.

Key Insights:

California ranks low in per-pupil spending despite its economic strength.
Existing funding formulas improve equity but don’t guarantee adequacy.
Long-term investment and new revenue strategies are needed to meet student needs.

Ed Equity Issues

Diversifying California’s Educator Workforce: State Policy Solutions to Advance Equity and Excellence

Support policies that recruit and retain diverse, well-prepared educators.

Key Insights:

California’s teacher workforce lacks diversity, with systemic barriers limiting entry and retention for educators of color.
Policy solutions include raising teacher pay, expanding affordable credentialing pathways, and supporting mentorship and inclusive school climates.
Statewide coordination and data systems must be strengthened to track progress and guide investments in diversifying the educator pipeline.

Ed Equity Issues

Improving Higher Education Affordability

Reduce financial barriers to college completion, especially for low-income students.

Key Insights:

California’s financial aid system needs modernization to prioritize low-income students and cover full college costs, including housing, food, and transportation.
Policy solutions include expanding Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship programs, increasing emergency aid, and investing in basic needs resources.
Statewide coordination and outreach are essential to ensure equitable access to financial aid and student support services.

Ed Equity Issues

Diversifying California’s Educator Workforce: State Policy Solutions to Advance Equity and Excellence

Support policies that recruit and retain diverse, well-prepared educators.

Key Insights:

California lacks a statewide coordinating body to align TK–12, higher education, and workforce systems, limiting progress toward shared goals and student success.
Policy solutions include establishing a higher education coordinating entity with authority to advise state leaders, set strategic goals, and oversee funding, data, and accountability across systems.
Coordinated governance would improve transfer pathways, close equity gaps, and ensure investments support college access, workforce preparation, and economic mobility for all Californians.