California debate over standardized testing and education leadership intensifies

UC’s post-SAT experience shows improved retention and GPAs, but faculty report persistent weaknesses in students’ math and writing preparation. The Academic Senate and Regents may consider whether and how testing could return, while the state superintendent campaign pits Shaw’s basic-skills and parental-rights emphasis against Barrera’s coalition-building and student-support approach. Equity, preparation, and the practical value of testing remain unresolved.