By the California State PTA Education Commission and the California State PTA Legislative Advocacy Team
The California State Board of Education (SBE) serves as the policy-making body for the nation’s largest public school system, establishing the educational framework that guides nearly six million public school students. Appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, this 11-member board makes decisions directly impacting every California family with school-age children.
The Board works closely with the elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), who serves as the chief executive implementing Board policies through the California Department of Education (CDE). This partnership separates governance from management. The Board sets direction while the Superintendent handles day-to-day operations.
- The SBE sets academic standards determining what students learn from kindergarten through high school. When your child studies specific math concepts in fourth grade or takes particular science courses in high school, those requirements stem from SBE decisions. These standards ensure educational consistency statewide, so families moving from San Diego to Sacramento find similar academic expectations.
- The SBE adopts instructional materials and textbooks for grades K-8, which are then recommended for voluntary use by school districts throughout California. These adoptions affect the books students read and how subjects are presented.
- The Board also establishes minimum graduation requirements, determining the number of years of English, math, science, and other subjects students must complete in order to earn a diploma.
- The SBE plays a crucial role in educational equity by setting policies for special education services, English learner programs, and support for disadvantaged students. The Board establishes eligibility criteria and program standards that guide how school districts serve these populations. While individual accommodation decisions are made at the local level, SBE policies shape the overall approach to ensuring all students receive appropriate support.
- Assessment and accountability fall under Board oversight. The SBE determines which standardized tests students take, how often they’re administered, and how results are evaluated to determine school performance. These decisions impact the class time devoted to testing and the information parents receive about their children’s progress. The board also approves the formulas and formats used to present student progress in districts’ Local Control and Accountability Plans, School Accountability Report Cards, and the California School Dashboard.
- The Board shapes the teaching profession by establishing educator preparation and certification requirements. These policies determine teacher training needs and ongoing professional development, which directly impact the quality of student learning.
- School funding represents another critical responsibility. While the Legislature appropriates funds, the SBE helps establish funding formulas and determines how certain funds are distributed, influencing class sizes, available programs, and local school resources.
- The SBE hears appeals from local school districts for waivers from state laws, changes in school district boundaries, and many issues related to charter schools.
- During emergencies, the Board can waive requirements or modify policies to ensure educational continuity while maintaining standards and student safety.
- The SBE provides multiple opportunities for public input through meetings, hearings, and comment periods. Parents and community members can address the Board directly, submit written comments, and participate in policy development processes. Many significant educational changes begin with parent concerns brought to the Board’s attention.
The California State Board of Education functions as the educational compass for millions of students. Through policy development and standards-setting, Board members shape learning experiences, set expectations, and create the framework within which teachers teach and students learn throughout California.
Parents, guardians, and PTAs can influence Board decisions by staying informed about upcoming policy discussions, attending meetings, and communicating with their representatives. Since Board members are gubernatorial appointments, families can also engage with the Governor’s office about education priorities and Board composition.
This article is part of a series on California’s state-elected officials, offices, and agencies, as well as how they impact the education of children and the lives of families throughout California. PTA/PTSAs in California are encouraged to reprint/share this information with all members as we head into the June 2026 California primary and November 2026 election.
– Read “The California State Superintendent: Shaping Education for Millions,” first published in the October 2025 PTA Connects