CCSA Advocates Endorses Richard Barrera for State Superintendent of Public Instruction

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, Monday 18, 2026

Media Contact:

Ana Tintocalis 
atintocalis@ccsaadvocates.org 

CCSA Advocates Endorses Richard Barrera for State Superintendent of Public Instruction

SACRAMENTO, CA — Today, California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) Advocates announced its endorsement of Richard Barrera for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, citing his long record of collaborative leadership, support for students and educators, and commitment to strengthening public education for all California families.

As a longtime leader on the San Diego Unified School District Board of Education, Barrera helped lead efforts that transformed the district into one of the nation’s highest-performing urban school systems through investments in teachers, college and career pathways, student wellness, and academic opportunity. Additionally, he spearheaded a first-in-the-nation affordable housing initiative for educators that is providing housing opportunities for teachers and school staff.

“Richard Barrera has shown that supporting educators and supporting high-quality charter public schools are not mutually exclusive,” said Gregory McGinity, CCSA Advocates Executive Director. “He understands that students benefit when public education leaders work together instead of against each other.”

During his tenure in San Diego, Barrera helped secure voter approval for four major school bond measures totaling $11.5 billion to modernize school facilities, expand arts and music programs, and improve learning environments for students across the region — including dedicated funding that supported charter public schools.

Barrera has also championed policies supporting educators, including higher teacher compensation, lower class sizes, expanded preparation time, and workforce housing initiatives aimed at retaining quality teachers in California communities. He has supported connecting education leaders to help spread best practices in education, especially on the critical issue of chronic absenteeism.

Barrera has built a reputation as a pragmatic and collaborative leader who recognizes the important role high-quality charter public schools play in California’s broader public education system. His ability to build bridges across traditional public schools, charter schools, labor organizations, and community stakeholders has earned him broad respect statewide.

“California students deserve leaders who are willing to work across differences to improve outcomes for kids,” said McGinity. “Richard Barrera has consistently shown that student-centered leadership and collaboration can move public education forward.”

CCSA Advocates is the advocacy and political engagement arm of the California Charter Schools Association, supporting leaders and policies that strengthen public education and expand opportunities for California students. Its political action committee is also sponsoring a television advertisement supporting Barrera that began airing today.

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About CCSA Advocates

CCSA Advocates advances policies and supports leaders committed to strengthening California’s public education system and expanding opportunities for students and families. Learn more.