California, the Golden State: land of Hollywood, Silicon Valley, and Wine Country. But for all our state's wealth, our most precious treasure will always be our children.

Every parent desires not only what is best for their children, but also to witness their dreams and the power of their visions come alive. Our public schools help to ensure that their potential is fully realized. How this realization unfolds, however, will depend on how we navigate through current deficits totaling in the billions of dollars. Faced with this devastating setback, the biggest challenge we have is to stay the course without compromising the quality of learning.

Bringing California's educational system back to its exemplary status in academics-- while increasing graduation rates--are equally formidable objectives. But in the face of these overwhelming odds, the greatest minds in academics and business can combine their wisdom and talent to produce results not necessarily aligned with organizational status quo. Every obstacle is an opportunity; every step a move in the direction of progress. I am convinced that single-minded collaboration among the best in the field of education and business can produce creative, efficient, and profitable outcomes for the benefit of all students.

I am Henry Williams, and I am running for California State Superintendent of Public Instruction 2010.