There is little doubt that California’s current budget woes have dampened hopes that 2008 would be the "Year of Education."

But the budget situation does not automatically prevent California's Legislature and governor from tackling reforms in state policy that would better support local schools' efforts to improve student achievement. Even without new funding, they can address issues that revolve around the systems by which schools are funded and governed; the abilities and accountability of educators; and ways to improve the data available for evaluating what reforms are most effective.

Perhaps progress on these difficult and complex challenges would bring some satisfaction in a year where so much looks bleak. This section includes ideas and proposals to reform California's complex education system.

In this section:

• Recommendations from the Governor's Committee on Education Excellence
• California Education Policy Convening
• Recommendations from the California P-16 Council