The California Department of Education (CDE) is a state agency responsible for overseeing public education in California, United States. It is headquartered in Sacramento, California, and is led by the appointed State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond. The department’s primary function is to implement and oversee education policy and programs for the state’s K-12 public schools. The department administers various programs and initiatives, such as the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), the state’s accountability and improvement system for K-12 schools. It also provides funding to schools and districts through the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), a funding mechanism that allocates resources based on student need. The CDE also provides guidance on a range of education topics, from curriculum and instructional materials to teacher professional development and parent engagement. It works closely with local education agencies, educators, and stakeholders to ensure that California’s public schools provide high-quality education and prepare students for college and careers. Overall, the California Department of Education plays a critical role in guiding and supporting the state’s public education system. Its mission is to empower and inspire students to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy and society.