California


U.S.
Rank
#34 D
Overall PPI Score: 64%

California, mired at 34th with a D-, dims hopes for widespread innovation. Though alternative models spark some optimism, limited charter growth and scarce options keep families tethered to rigid systems.

Charter Schools

Score
72%
Grade: C
Rank: #35

Once upon a time, California was a leader in innovation and charter schooling, providing multiple pathways to open schools, allowing lots of flexibility and autonomy and funding closer to equity than it is in many states. But today despite charter successes...

Transformational Learning

Score
80%
Grade: B
Rank: #32

Dual enrollment and CTE programs are available statewide, offering career preparation through coursework, internships, and industry certifications. While the state has officially acknowledged personalized learning, there are concerns about inequitable funding...

Leadership

A focus on more money for schools, pensions, child care, after school programs, mental health services, and even making a modest effort to support dyslexia programs might sound great to some. However, it also means placing more control in the hands of the...

Choice Programs (Scholarships, Vouchers, Tax Credits, etc.)

Score
50%
Grade: F
Rank: #47

California has no private school choice programs.

DID YOU KNOW?

States like Wyoming (+30), North Dakota (+18), and Texas (+15) made the largest leaps in offering Parent Power in the 2025 Index—proving that bold policy change drives real progress for families!

Transparency

California is transparent with its school and accountability data. School report cards are easily found on the California Department of Education website under the Testing and Accountability subheading, by clicking California School Dashboard. This takes you...

Teacher Quality

One of many data points to assess whether a state has the right policies in place to ensure teacher quality is the "use of student achievement data in teacher preparation accountability." How empty or full the fuel tank above is will give you the answer for your state.

Fast Facts:

4th Grade Math Proficiency: 35%
8th Grade Math Proficiency: 25%
4th Grade Reading Proficiency: 29%
8th Grade Reading Proficiency: 28%
Average SAT Score: 1086 / 1600
Average ACT Score: 26.5 / 36
Graduation Rate: 86.2%

Constitutional Issues

California has a very strict interpretation of its Blaine Amendments. "That interpretation prevents any public body from the state down to the local school board from allowing any public money from any source whatsoever to go to a religious or private school....