Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick joined State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Senator Susan Rubio, and education leaders from across California for an informational hearing of the Statewide Literacy Task Force at the California Department of Education.
The discussion centered on Superintendent Thurmond’s major proposals for the 2026 legislative and budget cycles, including:
- The future of the California Community Schools initiative.
- Expanding kindergarten access for all students.
- A five-year plan to ensure students reach literacy by third grade.
- Targeted efforts to close learning gaps for Black and Native American students.
For the first time in the history of the California School Dashboard, every TK–12 accountability indicator shows statewide progress. These proposals aim to build on that momentum and deepen investments in student achievement.
Assemblywoman Hadwick shared the unique needs of rural schools, emphasizing that small districts face very different challenges than their urban counterparts. She highlighted the importance of ensuring any future policy or funding proposals work for rural educators, families, and students.
“Our rural schools deserve solutions that reflect their realities,” Hadwick said. “I’ll continue advocating to make sure these statewide initiatives support, strengthen, and sustain the small communities I represent.”
A recording of the hearing is available on the California Department of Education’s Facebook page by clicking the link here: https://fb.watch/DJVcr3Xt0u/
source- Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick
