WHEREAS, Each year, as summer fades and autumn approaches, students across the State of California return to school, bringing with them hopes, questions, and the limitless potential that defines our future; and

WHEREAS, The beginning of the 2025–26 school year marks not only a change in the season, but a recommitment to California’s core promise—that every child, regardless of race, income, immigration status, or background, has the right to a high-quality public education; and

WHEREAS, California’s public education system serves over 6,000,000 students across more than 10,000 schools, and in the County of San Diego alone, over 500,000 students begin the school year in transitional kindergarten through community college, including in school districts like the San Diego Unified School District, Sweetwater Union High School District, and Chula Vista Elementary School District; and

WHEREAS, Teachers, school staff, counselors, and administrators play an essential role in shaping the lives of students, often going above and beyond to ensure academic success, emotional well-being, and equitable support for every learner; and

WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing mental health challenges, and economic disparities have underscored the need for robust support systems and targeted investment in school infrastructure, curriculum, and student wellness; and

WHEREAS, The start of a new school year provides an opportunity for families, communities, and lawmakers to come together in support of students and teachers alike, recognizing that the strength of our public schools reflects the strength of our democracy; now, therefore, be it