The Battle for California Superintendent of Education Intensifies: Former Speaker Joins the Race

Former California Assembly Speaker Rendón Officially Announces Campaign for California Superintendent of Education

[News Brief] Agency Comprehensive Report

Former California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendón officially announced his campaign for the position of California Superintendent of Education on Monday (28th), pledging to address the "youth mental health crisis" and develop policies for the use of generative AI tools in schools if elected.

Rendón stated in a statement: "We cannot ignore the reality: phones and social media have already harmed learning and student well-being. Now, AI tools are causing students to neglect the critical thinking skills they need for life. We need thoughtful, proactive leadership to ensure that AI enhances education rather than undermines it, and we also need trained, well-resourced teachers who can help students reach their full potential."

Rendón also promised to create an "from cradle to career" educational approach in the education sector, "breaking down educational silos and building a cohesive educational system."

"When systems don't communicate, children get left behind," Rendón said.

At 57 years old, Rendón served in the California State Assembly for 12 years, representing communities in the southeast of Los Angeles County, with his term ending last year. He served as the Assembly Speaker for over seven years, making him the second-longest-serving speaker in California history.

Current Superintendent of Education Tony Thurmond will step down after eight years in office in 2026, and Thurmond has already announced his campaign for California Governor.

Several high-profile candidates have joined this nonpartisan race, including Nichelle Henderson, a Democrat and member of the Los Angeles Community College District Board from Gardena; Andra Hoffman, a Democrat and member of the Los Angeles Community College District Board; Al Muratsuchi, a Democrat and current chair of the California Assembly Education Committee from Torrance; former California Senator Josh Newman; and Sonja Shaw, chair of the Chino Valley Unified School District Board, who is currently the only Republican.

The primary election will be held on June 2nd. If no candidate receives a majority as expected, a runoff will be held on November 3rd between the top two vote-getters.

The annual salary for the California Superintendent of Education is $194,587.

Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1838963216504839/

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