Three people hoping to be the next state superintendent of public instruction are scheduled to attend a candidates forum next week in Freeborn Hall.

The forum, presented by of the School of Education and the Yolo County School Boards Association, is set for 7 p.m. March 15, with Jeffrey Callison of Capital Public Radio’s Insight program as the host. The public is invited to attend, free or charge. Or, people can watch a live webcast; look for the link the day of the forum, at ucdavis.edu.

The forum will feature something unique: Organizers said elementary and high school students from Davis, Esparto, West Sacramento and Woodland will pose questions to the candidates. A UC Davis teacher in training and event organizers also will pose questions.

The nonpartisan superintendent’s post is on the June 8 primary ballot.

“This is a critical time for California public education,” said Harold Levine, dean of the School of Education. “The next superintendent of public instruction will face challenges of an unprecedented magnitude. Meeting those challenges will require leadership, skill and a willingness to think boldly and creatively.”

Jack O’Connell is completing his second four-year term, and, as such, is barred from seeking re-election.

Forum organizers said these candidates had confirmed their attendance:

Larry Aceves — A former teacher, principal and superintendent, having worked in public school districts in San Jose and San Diego, and on the Central Coast for more than 30 years, according to the Web site for his San Francisco Bay Area-based campaign.

Diane Lenning — Recently retired from a teaching career of more than 30 years in Los Angeles and Orange county public schools, according to her Web site, on which she also cites her experience as a counselor for the California Youth Authority.

Tom Torlakson — A public school teacher and state legislator, serving first in the Assembly (1996-2000), then the Senate (2000-08) and then back in the Assembly (2008-10), for his final term (under term limits), representing the northern half of Contra Costa County.