A 10-month immersive fellowship connecting UC Merced graduates with statewide K–12 education policy leadership in Sacramento. Fellows contribute directly to equity-centered initiatives while building the skills and networks to become the next generation of public education leaders.
Duration: 10 months | Location: Sacramento, CA
Position-Type: Full Time | Annual Budget: $85,000
About the Fellowship
The fellowship is open to recent UC Merced graduates who have demonstrated a commitment to public service, education equity, and policy research. Selected fellows are placed within the California County Superintendents' Sacramento office, where they work alongside experienced education leaders on statewide K–12 initiatives. Fellows are employed by UC Merced on a 10-month contract and supervised by both CAPE and CCS leadership.
What do Fellows do?
- Conduct education policy research and analysis
- Draft memos, policy briefs, and position letters for senior leadership
- Track state and federal legislative activity
- Support sponsored bill development and budget analysis
Engagement & Leadership
- Engage with county superintendents, government agencies, and elected officials
- Support communications and professional learning networks
- Attend legislative hearings, conferences, and CCS membership meetings
- Network with policymakers and education advocates statewide
Program Details
Eligibility & Selection
- Open to CAPE-affiliated UC Merced seniors graduating the fall or spring before the November start date
- Applications reviewed by a joint CAPE and CCS selection committee
- Selected through application, interview, and review process
Schedule & Work Environment
- Hybrid schedule — minimum 3 days per week in Sacramento office
- Travel to State Capitol, CDE, and statewide meetings
- One annual trip to Washington, D.C. included
- Aligned with California legislative session calendar
Fellow Spotlight
