By Katrin Lobach, 8th Grade, The Preuss School UCSD
I am honored to have participated in the California Civics Contest: Building a Better Future, organized by the California State Assembly. This competition encouraged students to propose solutions to pressing societal issues, and I was proud to earn 2nd place out of 150 submissions. My video addressed California’s urgent need for education reform, a cause I am deeply passionate about.
Education is the foundation of a thriving society. It shapes the minds of future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Yet, despite California’s reputation as a leader in progress and opportunity, our education system faces significant challenges. Many students across the state struggle with overcrowded classrooms, underfunded programs, and unequal access to resources. These issues create barriers to success and limit opportunities for students, particularly those from underprivileged communities. If we want to build a better future, we must take action now to reform and improve our schools.
The Problem of Funding Disparities
One of the biggest challenges in California’s education system is the funding gap between schools. Not all students receive the same quality of education because school funding is often tied to local property taxes. This means that schools in wealthier districts receive more money while those in lower-income areas struggle to afford essential supplies, updated textbooks, and even basic infrastructure repairs.
This inequality creates an unfair playing field where some students have access to state-of-the-art technology while others lack working computers or even sufficient classroom space. A student’s zip code should not determine their educational experience. Every child deserves access to high-quality education, no matter where they live.
A fair solution would be to increase state and federal funding for schools in lower-income areas to ensure that all students have the same opportunities. The government must prioritize equitable funding and resource distribution so that every school has the support it needs to help students succeed.
The Issue of Overcrowded Classrooms
Another major challenge is overcrowding in classrooms. Many schools lack teachers or space to accommodate growing student populations. When too many students are packed into a single classroom, it becomes difficult for teachers to provide personalized attention. This leads to a lower quality of education, as students who need extra help may not receive the support they require.
Smaller class sizes allow teachers to focus more on individual students, helping them understand complex concepts and stay engaged. Studies have shown that students in smaller classes perform better academically, build stronger relationships with their teachers, and feel more confident in their learning abilities.
California must hire more teachers and invest in expanding school facilities to fix this issue. Reducing class sizes can create a more effective learning environment where students feel supported and encouraged to succeed.
The Need to Support Our Teachers
Teachers are the backbone of the education system, yet many face low wages, overwhelming workloads, and a lack of resources. Without proper support, many passionate and talented educators leave the profession, leading to a shortage of experienced teachers in our schools.
If we want to improve education, we must invest in our teachers. This means:
• Increasing salaries to attract and retain skilled educators.
• Providing more professional development opportunities to enhance teaching methods.
• Ensuring teachers have necessary resources such as updated textbooks, technology, and classroom materials.
Additionally, we need to recognize the emotional and mental strain that teaching can bring. Teachers often work long hours, spending extra time grading papers, preparing lessons, and helping students outside of class. Providing mental health support and reducing unnecessary administrative burdens can make teaching a more sustainable and rewarding profession.
Why Change is Necessary
Education is not just about academics — it is about preparing students for life. Schools should be places that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. They should provide students with the tools they need to succeed in college, careers, and beyond.
When students receive a high-quality education, they are more likely to graduate, find good jobs, and contribute positively to society. However, if the system remains broken, many talented and hardworking students will be left behind simply because they do not have access to the same opportunities as others.
Taking Action for a Better Future
Reforming California’s education system is not just a dream but a necessity. We need better funding, smaller class sizes, and stronger support for teachers to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive. These changes will require action from policymakers, educators, and the community.
As students, we also have a role to play. We can use our voices to advocate for change, raise awareness about educational issues, and push for policies that prioritize students. Together, we can create a future where every child, regardless of their background, has access to the education they deserve.
I am grateful that my work was recognized in the California Civics Contest: Building a Better Future, and I hope my message inspires others to join the conversation.
