The GENIUS (Genuine, Empathy & Nurturing Intellect for Underserved Students) Initiative, also known as the Equity Lead Grant, was established in 2023 under Senate Bill 114 as a part of the California Statewide System of Support.  At its heart, GENIUS is about giving every child a chance to thrive —no matter their zip code. The Equity Multiplier funding has allocated approximately $300 million across 57 of California’s 58 counties to 1,008 schools to support qualifying schools in closing opportunity gaps for our most marginalized students. This funding aims to ensure that every student receives the necessary support and resources for success. As part of California’s education funding, the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) Equity Multiplier provides additional resources to school sites with high non-stability rates and a significant percentage of socioeconomically disadvantaged pupils, directing funds to schools with the greatest needs.

A couple of critical components of the GENIUS Initiative are the collaboration between Kings, Los Angeles and Sonoma County Offices of Education and their research partnership with UCLA’s Center for the Transformation of Schools. This collaboration will provide continuous evaluation and impact measurement, ensuring that the initiative’s goals are met and that best practices are refined over time. By listening to the data and centering equity, we’re investing where it counts most—our kids.

Together, we’re not just changing outcomes—we’re changing lives.
—GENIUS Initiative Website