Shaw and Barrera Make Final Case in California Superintendent RaceBarrera Offers Proven District Leadership as Shaw Pushes Culture-War AgendaShaw Puts Academic Basics and Accountability at Center of Race
California voters will choose between school board presidents Sonja Shaw and Richard Barrera for state superintendent on November 3, 2026. Shaw is emphasizing academic results and fairness for girls, while Barrera has highlighted San Diego schools’ performance.On November 3, 2026, California voters will choose between Richard Barrera and Sonja Shaw for state superintendent. Barrera points to San Diego’s academic gains, while Shaw’s record and campaign focus include policies affecting transgender students.Sonja Shaw is making academic standards and fiscal transparency central to her bid for California superintendent, ahead of the November 3, 2026, election against Richard Barrera. She also says she would challenge the state’s reduction of the office’s authority.