This section includes information about recent ideas and efforts to strengthen and improve California's K-12 education system. The impetus for change can come from many quarters and be directed to a multitude of issues given the size and complexity of a system in which local, state, and federal governments all share responsibility and control.

In recent years in California, the school finance and student data systems have been particular focal points for reform efforts at the local and state levels.

Beginning in 2009, the Obama Administration has emphasized a national reform agenda focused on educator effectiveness, turning around under-performing schools, stronger education data systems, and college- and career-ready standards. All of those have had an effect here in the Golden State.