California’s Nov. 3 election delivered significant victories for public education and priorities championed by ACSA. Voters approved a major school funding measure, elected ACSA-endorsed candidates to two statewide offices, and are poised to send the overwhelming majority of ACSA-endorsed legislative candidates to Sacramento.

Voters protect billions in ongoing school funding Among the most consequential results was the passage of Proposition 3, a top organizational priority for ACSA.

The measure makes permanent existing voter-approved income tax rates on California’s highest earners, which were scheduled to expire after 2030. These taxes are estimated to generate up to $15 billion annually, a substantial portion of which supports public education through Proposition 98.

“These results demonstrate why ACSA engages in the political process,” said Iván Carrillo, ACSA senior director of Policy and Governmental Relations. “Elections have significant ramifications for the resources available to serve students. Protecting billions in ongoing school funding is a meaningful victory that will benefit students for years to come.”

ACSA also opposed Proposition 40, a proposed one-time tax on billionaires. Although it would have generated temporary revenues, the measure was structured to bypass Proposition 98’s school funding guarantee. ACSA also raised concerns that it was expected to reduce ongoing state revenues available for schools. California voters rejected this measure, according to the Associated Press, which called the race on Nov. 9.

ACSA-endorsed candidates win key statewide offices ACSA also celebrated victories by its endorsed candidates Xavier Becerra for governor and Richard Barrera for state superintendent of public instruction (SPI).

Becerra, who previously served as California attorney general and U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services, defeated Steve Hilton. As governor, he will play a leading role in shaping education investments, appointing the newly created education commissioner, and determining policy priorities.

Barrera, a longtime San Diego Unified School District board member, prevailed over Sonja Shaw. While significant changes to the SPI role take effect in January, Barrera will continue to have a leading statewide voice for public education and become a voting member of the State Board of Education.

The election of both leaders presents an important opportunity to advance ACSA’s priorities. ACSA intends to work closely with both to turn shared priorities into meaningful policy outcomes that strengthen our schools and better serve students.

Strong showing for legislative candidates ACSA endorsed 18 legislative candidates representing communities throughout California. While vote counting continues and some races have yet to be called, current returns show ACSA-endorsed candidates leading in a majority of those contests.

One notable victory is that of ACSA member Dr. Ayanna Davis, elected to represent Assembly District 65 in Los Angeles County. Davis is a principal in Los Angeles Unified and former Compton Unified School District board member. It is rare for an ACSA member to be elected to the state Legislature. She will bring the much-needed perspective of a practicing school leader and a deep understanding of students’ needs to Sacramento.

Building on election results With new statewide leadership and a new legislative session ahead, ACSA will continue advocating for robust and stable funding, reduced administrative burdens, and policies informed by school leaders.

ACSA’s political engagement is an extension of its advocacy mission: supporting candidates and measures that advance the interests of California’s schools and students. The election results create important opportunities to build on that work.

Members can find ACSA’s full list of endorsements and ballot measure positions at acsa.org/endorsements.