California Constitution Article IX - Education [Sections 1 - 16]
Article IX of the California Constitution addresses the state’s public education system, outlining its structure, governance, funding, and obligations. It consists of Sections 1 through 16, each detailing a different aspect of California's educational policy.
📘 California Constitution – Article IX: Education
[Sections 1 – 16]
Section 1 – A General Diffusion of Knowledge
The Legislature shall encourage by all suitable means the promotion of intellectual, scientific, moral, and agricultural improvement.
Purpose: Mandates state support for widespread education and intellectual development.
Section 2 – Superintendent of Public Instruction
Establishes the elected position of Superintendent of Public Instruction, responsible for public education oversight.
Serves as the executive officer of the Department of Education.
Section 3 – State Board of Education
A State Board of Education is created, its members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.
Sets statewide educational policies and standards.
Section 4 – Textbook Adoption
The State Board of Education adopts textbooks for use in grades 1 through 8 in public schools.
Section 5 – Free Schools
The Legislature shall provide for a system of common schools by which a free school shall be kept up and supported in each district...
Guarantees free public education for California children.
Prohibits tuition in public schools supported by the state.
Section 6 – University of California
Declares the University of California (UC) a public trust.
UC is governed by the Board of Regents and has constitutional autonomy from the Legislature in many matters.
Section 7 – No Religious Instruction
Public schools may not offer religious instruction or require religious observance.
Maintains separation of church and state in public education.
Section 8 – Permanent School Fund
Establishes a Permanent School Fund made up of proceeds from land granted to the state by the federal government, to support public education.
Section 9 – Use of State School Fund
Dictates how the State School Fund is distributed to support school districts.
Emphasizes equitable funding.
Section 10 – School Officers' Compensation
The compensation of public school officers is determined by law.
Section 11 – School District Debts
School districts may incur bonded indebtedness with voter approval for building schools or acquiring property.
Section 12 – Prohibition on Racial Segregation
Prohibits segregation by race in public schools.
Section 13 – Education for the Deaf, Blind, and Mentally Disabled
Requires the state to provide for specialized institutions for students with disabilities.
Section 14 – Attendance Requirements
Legislature may set compulsory school attendance laws.
Section 15 – State Teachers’ Retirement System
Provides for the Teachers’ Retirement System, offering pensions and benefits for educators.
Section 16 – Public Funds; Use Restrictions
Public funds may only be used for public schools, unless otherwise provided by the Constitution.
✅ Summary:
Article IX firmly establishes California’s commitment to public education by:
Guaranteeing free education for children,
Protecting the autonomy of the University of California,
Prohibiting discrimination and religious instruction in public schools,
Ensuring funding mechanisms and oversight bodies are in place.
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