California is widely recognized as the innovation capital of the world, yet fewer than half of K-12 schools in the state offer computer science courses. My top priority as Superintendent will be to modernize our curriculum so our schools are equipped to educate well-rounded students ready to compete in the global workforce. As Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Education, I authored legislation to expand courses in computer science and STEM education, particularly in low-income and rural school districts. My bill, AB 2186, proposes a $200 million STEM education grant program that will allow school districts to apply for funds that would go toward professional development for STEM educators, computer science education, and the development of public-private partnerships aimed at increasing STEM opportunities for students. I am proactively working to bring together tech companies and school districts across the state to build partnerships that will infuse technology into curriculum and create pathways to the internships and jobs of tomorrow. In addition to STEM, we must prioritize and invest in arts and civics education, enabling students to foster creativity and critical thinking skills. Research shows that including arts in our education curriculum improves student outcomes in many subjects. That’s why I worked to secure an additional $27 million in last year’s budget to fund the California Arts Council – a 130% increase since 2014. I am proud to be the only candidate for Superintendent who has committed to prioritizing increased funding for the arts and civics in our public schools. As Superintendent, I will: ● Secure additional funding for STEM education to ensure students in every school district have access to a 21st Century curriculum ● Prioritize funding for arts and civics education to ensure our students have a well-rounded curriculum that fosters critical thinking and creativity