Six years ago, California set out to adopt an ambitious set of reforms aimed at redefining the operation of its schools, districts, and the education system as a whole. The goal was to achieve greater equity and excellence across the system. At this time, we can conclude that the foundational levers in play are sound. There is broad agreement about the nature of the reform called the California Way. Despite some progress the main question remains: will the reform translate into substantively improved learning for all children and youth across the State? For this report we conducted interviews and focus groups with some 90 leaders and staff from key education agencies in California, 5 County Offices of Education, and 13 Districts. We collected and reviewed key documents and studies on the status of education in California.