California controller candidate highlights education spending and accountability issues

Herb Morgan, a candidate for California state controller, has raised concerns regarding the state's education spending and its impact on student outcomes. He noted that California's K-12 education funding increased from $97 billion in 2019 to $151 billion in the current budget cycle, with per-student spending rising from $16,300 to $27,400. Despite this increase, Morgan argues that educational results have not improved, attributing the issue to a lack of financial accountability at the state level. He cited several instances of alleged financial mismanagement and fraud in educational institutions, including the diversion of $400 million from the A3 Education Charter Network and embezzlement cases in the Magnolia School District. Incumbent State Controller Malia Cohen has recently supported legislation aimed at enhancing financial oversight of local educational agencies. Morgan also suggested that advancements in artificial intelligence could improve oversight and reduce fraud in state spending.