Full Breakdown
California Treasurer Fiona Ma Faces Scrutiny Over Ties to Controversial Chinese School
4/22/2026, 9:42:06 PM
Allegations of Diploma Fraud and Campaign Contributions
California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, currently campaigning for the position of lieutenant governor, is under scrutiny for her connections to Pegasus California School, a boarding institution in Qingdao, China, accused of diploma fraud. The school has been implicated in a scandal involving the Val Verde Unified School District, which allegedly issued diplomas to Pegasus students without proper authorization. A comprehensive audit by Riverside County officials revealed a "pattern of favors, official acts, promises, and payments" that facilitated a pilot program allowing wealthy Chinese students to obtain U.S. diplomas while studying in China.
The founder of Pegasus, Steven Ma, has contributed over $30,000 to Fiona Ma's political campaigns since 2010, including a recent $13,200 donation for her lieutenant governor bid. During a visit to the school in September 2023, Fiona Ma promised students job and internship opportunities in California, a move that has raised ethical concerns given the ongoing investigation into Pegasus.
Background on Pegasus California School
Pegasus California School charges tuition fees of up to $34,000 per year and operates as a private boarding school, despite its ties to the Val Verde Unified School District. The school has been accused of misleading parents and students by guaranteeing admission to top U.S. universities, with claims of full tuition reimbursement if such admissions were not secured. The audit also highlighted questionable benefits received by California education officials, including consulting opportunities and travel perks, which may have compromised their integrity.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the audit findings, the California Department of Education issued a cease-and-desist order to Pegasus, demanding the removal of statements suggesting state endorsement. Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin Gomez emphasized the importance of safeguarding public education integrity, stating, "Our responsibility is to safeguard the integrity of public education and ensure that taxpayer resources are used lawfully and transparently."
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the ethical implications of Fiona Ma's relationship with Pegasus and the potential conflicts of interest stemming from campaign contributions. Business Insider previously reported on the problematic relationship between Pegasus and Val Verde, suggesting that the audit was prompted by these concerns. The situation has drawn attention from federal prosecutors, who are now investigating the ties between Pegasus and California educational authorities.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the audit indicates serious misconduct, it does not provide clear evidence of direct financial exchanges between Pegasus and Val Verde. Additionally, responses from Fiona Ma's campaign regarding her visit to the school and the implications of her promises have not been forthcoming, leaving gaps in the narrative.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am honored to come to Qingdao Pegasus California School today to see many students perform and communicate with them. If they want to intern in California, they can come to me, I will provide some internship and employment opportunities.” — Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer
- “Riverside County Office of Education “This audit identified serious concerns that merit further review by the appropriate authorities.” — Dr. Edwin Gomez, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools
As the investigation continues, the implications of Fiona Ma's connections to Pegasus California School and the broader issues of educational integrity remain at the forefront of public discourse.
