Veteran educator and community college trustee Nichelle Henderson is bringing a lifetime of hands-on classroom experience to her campaign for California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, a position she believes demands true educational expertise—not just political ambition.
“This is one of the few statewide positions where you should have some level of expertise or background to really make a difference,” Henderson said.
“My background as a K–12 teacher, community college district trustee, and university teacher educator all align perfectly with this role.”
Henderson, who currently serves on the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Board of Trustees and previously worked nearly 30 years in education, emphasizes that the Superintendent’s role is not legislative.
“The governor sets policy,” Henderson explained.
“The superintendent needs to understand what teachers need in the classroom and how to support students to provide the best outcomes.”
A cornerstone of her campaign is a deep commitment to addressing the diverse needs of California’s sprawling education system, from urban hubs to rural communities.
“Diversity isn’t just ethnicity or culture; it’s how you live, it’s your economic and educational background,” she said. Henderson believes that real change requires listening to communities directly to tailor solutions to their unique challenges.
When it comes to standardized testing, Henderson is clear-eyed about its flaws.
“We test too much and place too much emphasis on the outcome,” she said. Henderson advocates for assessments that support instruction rather than punish students.
“Right now, we assess third-grade students on third-grade standards even if they’re struggling with second-grade material. That’s ridiculous,” Henderson said.
“Testing should identify how best to help students, not label them as failures.”
Teacher burnout is another major concern for Henderson. She calls for increased classroom support, including the return of teacher aides and mandatory mentorship programs for new educators.
“The average lifespan of a new teacher is only about four years. They love what they do, but without proper support, they burn out quickly,” Henderson said. Henderson believes that formal mentorships would not only ease the transition for new teachers but also boost long-term retention.
A passionate advocate for career and technical education (CTE), Henderson also sees tremendous opportunity in dual enrollment programs that allow high school students to earn college credits at no cost.
“Students as early as ninth grade can start taking community college classes for free,” Henderson noted.
“A student could graduate high school with an associate degree and be ready to transfer to a four-year university—or step directly into a career pathway.”
Henderson insists that equity must be more than just a buzzword.
“It’s about intentionality. It’s making sure opportunities are created and that people know they exist,” she said. She emphasizes the importance of measurable goals around diversity, inclusion, and student success.
As California faces increasing political turbulence nationally, Henderson believes her background—not just her passion—makes her the right candidate.
“This isn’t a safe landing spot for termed-out politicians,” she said. “You need someone who understands education deeply, someone who knows what they’re implementing and why.”
The 2026 race for California State Superintendent will test the state’s priorities—and Henderson is betting that voters want a leader who has spent decades in the classroom, not just the Capitol.
For more information, visit hendersonforcasuperintendent.org.
