Stockton voters display concerns over job prospects for those lacking college degrees, and nearly 70% of parents believe local public schools require change.
San Joaquin A+ partnered with the esteemed research firm Public Opinion Strategies to conduct a telephone poll in Stockton, CA, between January 8-11, 2023. The survey included 200 registered Stockton voters, with an emphasis on parents. The margin of error for this sample size is ±6.93%.
Don Shalvey, CEO of San Joaquin A+, highlighted the poll's most striking result: "A resounding 92% of voters support the establishment of an early college high school program in Stockton, spanning across party affiliations and educational backgrounds."
He noted that this support stems from the appeal of students obtaining college credits in high school and the belief that Early College and Career Oriented High Schools would provide more career opportunities for Stockton's youth. "These findings bolster San Joaquin A+'s central mission: to collaborate with local schools in preparing young individuals to pursue their passions and secure a stable income for their families by age 26," Shalvey added.
Key findings from the poll include:
- Stockton voters exhibit pessimism regarding job prospects for individuals without college degrees.
- 51% rated job opportunities for those lacking a degree as not good/poor.
- 63% of voters think local public schools need change, with nearly 70% of parents concurring.
- Suggested changes encompass school discipline, student focus, school administration, and safety.
- 85% agree that enhancing local schools would improve their feelings about their community.
- 69% believe that increasing public charter school accessibility would benefit local schools.
- 28% of voters have developed a more unfavorable view of local public schools over the past year.
- Those with a negative opinion frequently mention a social agenda in schools and safety concerns (including violence and school shootings).
- Only 40% of voters think the city's education is on the right path.
- 34% feel public education is on the wrong track, while 25% are unsure.
- Voters of color display a more positive perspective (49% right direction).
- The school board and superintendent/district officials are seen as responsible for local schools' quality.
- Parents prioritize location, safety, and academic programs when selecting a public school.
To learn more about the survey, visit the San Joaquin A+.