Nichelle Henderson has spent more than two decades in education, from classroom teacher to union organizer to board member of California’s largest community college district. EDSOURCE ELECTION 2026 COVERAGE The June 2 California Primary Election promises to be a big one for Californians and public education, and EdSource will be your guide to where candidates stand on key education issues. Check out our election coverage here. On April 21 and 22, EdSource will host virtual forums with candidates for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Register here. Now, she’s looking to become the state’s next superintendent of public instruction. Henderson, whose top priorities as superintendent include reforming standardized testing and expanding dual enrollment, started her career as a middle school teacher in the Compton Unified School District, where she taught mathematics for seven years. She is a faculty adviser in the California State University system and has worked as a union leader, participating in bargaining for the California Faculty Association, which represents faculty and staff. She also serves as a trustee for the Los Angeles Community College District, which has nine campuses across Los Angeles County. Henderson was first elected in 2020 and reelected in 2024. “I’m the only candidate with K-12, community college and university experience,” she said. “That’s important because you have students that are graduating high school, that are going into the workforce, going to higher education, and having a deep understanding of what that transition looks like and what preparation looks like is pivotal.” Henderson said her…
