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Wednesday, March 12
 

1:00pm PDT

Registration & Information
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Island Ballroom Foyer

4:00pm PDT

Opening Keynote with Dr. Cherina Betters - Do It Anyway! Sponsored by Just Right Reader
Wednesday March 12, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Cherina Betters

Dr. Cherina Betters

Chief of Equity & Access, San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD)
Cherina Betters is a school administrator for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and Board Trustee for the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD). A lifelong learner, she has served in the field of PK-12 and higher education for over 20 years in the capacity... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

5:30pm PDT

Welcoming Networking Reception
Wednesday March 12, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Wednesday March 12, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Bayview Ballroom
 
Thursday, March 13
 

7:00am PDT

Continental Breakfast
Thursday March 13, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am PDT
Thursday March 13, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

7:30am PDT

Registration & Information
Thursday March 13, 2025 7:30am - 4:00pm PDT
Thursday March 13, 2025 7:30am - 4:00pm PDT
Island Ballroom Foyer

8:00am PDT

General Session Opening Panel with ACSA Partner Law Firms - Sponsored by Elevo
Thursday March 13, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PDT
Moderators
avatar for Dr. Tracie Noriega

Dr. Tracie Noriega

Sr. Director DEI & Professional Learning, Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)
Dr. Tracie Noriega, currently serves the students of California as the Sr. Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Professional Learning for ACSA. This is her 28th year as an educator, having served as a bilingual teacher, Principal, Director, and Assistant Superintendent. Tracie... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for David Mishook

David Mishook

Partner, F3 Law
As an enthusiastic advocate for public learning, litigator David Mishook advises and defends California school districts, county offices of education and community college administrators statewide in all aspects of student services and special education cases. Appearing in state... Read More →
avatar for Meredith Brown

Meredith Brown

Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Meredith Brown has more than 25 years of experience representing public agencies and private institutions. Her principal areas of specialization include local government law for California public agencies, construction law, business litigation, environmental law, and public contracts... Read More →
avatar for Alyse Nichols

Alyse Nichols

Partner, Lozano Smith
OverviewAlyse Pacheco Nichols is a Partner in Lozano Smith's Walnut Creek Office. She represents clients in the facilities and business, litigation, and construction aspects of education law.ExperienceMs. Nichols frequently assists clients through Brown Act compliance, particularly... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

9:30am PDT

A New Paradigm for Expanding Educational Equity
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Expanding educational equity consists of a framework of three intersecting elements: instructional equity, cultural equity, and digital equity. In this session, attendees will learn how expanding equity begins with providing high-quality instruction for all students. Achieving instructional equity requires paying attention to each of the three key essential elements that make up the “instructional core”: the student, the teacher, and the content.
Speakers
KL

Kerri Larkin

Senior Education Advisor, Lexia Learning
Kerri Larkin brings more than 20 years of special education experience to her role as Senior Education Advisor. Kerri began her career teaching secondary language arts and special education in District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS). She left the classroom to become the director... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Quarter Deck

9:30am PDT

Addressing Implicit Bias - Eliminating Stereotypes And Discrimination in the Public School Workplace
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Is your workplace infected with stereotypes, cronyism, and favoritism? Does it value workplace culture over inclusivity and skill? If so, it might be a victim of implicit bias. This workshop will review cases where courts have (and have not) recognized implicit bias as a form of discrimination.
1. Learn about the psychological basis for implicit bias.
2. Review how implicit bias can affect personnel decisions through court cases and workplace scenarios.
3. Hear about how to implement a specific standards-based hiring and evaluation process to counter the impact of implicit bias.
Speakers
avatar for John Yeh

John Yeh

Partner, Burke, Williams & Sorensen
John Yeh has been practicing law in California since 1991. A California public school product and parent, and UC/CSU parent, he specializes in representing and advising school districts in charter school oversight, labor and employment, and litigation. He also has experience in advising... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Mariposa

9:30am PDT

Foundation of a School Community: Spreading Principles of Restorative Justice with Student Voice
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
A positive, inclusive, and connective school community lays a foundation for student success social-emotionally, behaviorally, and academically. In this workshop, we will highlight strategies for using the principles of restorative practices with student voice at the center to achieve this goal. We will focus on utilizing initial professional development to lay the groundwork and then training students on the skills of restorative practices. They can then serve as leaders in classrooms so that all students gain the skills of tier one restorative justice through relationship and community building and circle practice. Some of the skills we focus on are active listening, affective statements, and restorative dialogue. Through activities and circle practice, we work to build community with teachers and staff also learning through student leadership. Our presenting team includes an administrator, a safe and inclusive schools coordinator and two students.
Speakers
ML

Meena Loughridge

Albany Unified School District
CG

Clive Gold

Albany Unified School District
avatar for Deb Brill

Deb Brill

Executive Director of Student Services, Albany City USD
Deb Brill (she/her) is currently the Executive Director of Student Services for Albany Unified School District. Prior to her current role, she was the principal of Albany Middle School for nine years, she has been the Safe and Inclusive Schools Coordinator and a sixth grade teacher... Read More →
avatar for Camille Fisher

Camille Fisher

Safe, Inclusive, Restorative Justice Schools Coordinator, Albany Unified School District
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Bayview Ballroom

9:30am PDT

Honest Conversations, Bold Actions: Building Equitable Systems Grounded in Care
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
This session is a partnership between Restorative Equity Partnership (REP) and Fresno Unified School District (FUSD)—a collaboration grounded in trust, accountability, and a shared commitment to transforming equity work from performative to truly impactful.

Through real, on-the-ground examples, this session highlights how theory, existing district initiatives, and action are braided together to drive research-based transformation. Participants explore how:

1. Honest acknowledgment of systemic shortcomings builds trust, validates lived experiences, and lays the foundation for meaningful action,

2. Foundational learning, like Cultural Proficiency Training, serves as a springboard for deeper, equity-centered work, and

3. Staff-driven learning—rooted in intentional framing, active listening, and actionable problem-solving—empowers educators to approach challenges with agency, creativity, and care.

This session engages participants through interactive discussions, reflective exercises, and collaborative problem-solving. Participants gain tools to:

1. Build psychological safety that fosters courageous, solution-focused equity conversations,

2. Leverage district priorities and initiatives as a foundation for sustainable change, and

3. Center care and creativity to create environments where both staff and students thrive.

When theory, action, and district commitments are braided together, equity work becomes more than an aspiration—it becomes a transformative force that creates real, lasting change. This session moves beyond acknowledgment to demonstrate how care, collaboration, and bold leadership drive equity into action.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Kandace Forrester

Dr. Kandace Forrester

Restorative Equity Partnership, Managing Partner and Chief Innovation Officer, Restorative Equity Partnerships
Dr. Kandace Forrester is a highly accomplished managing partner at Restorative Equity Partnership (REP). She is renowned for her expertise in education and dedication to improving students' lived experiences. Over the course of her career, she has held various impactful roles, including... Read More →
avatar for D'shara Strange

D'shara Strange

Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 
D'shara Strange is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, serving as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Manager for Fresno Unified School District (FUSD). In this capacity, she develops and facilitates cultural proficiency trainings, workshops, and initiatives designed... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Angel

10:45am PDT

Amplifying the AANHPI Voice in Educational Leadership for Change
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Join us for an empowering session aimed at advancing the career of multicultural educational leaders. Discover strategies for professional growth through storytelling and networking while learning to harness the power of the cultural and immigrant experience of the global majority in today’s educational landscape. Drawing from our AANHPI experiences, we will highlight the importance of diverse perspectives in fostering inclusivity and driving meaningful change. Together, we will issue a call to action to uplift one another, creating a supportive network that champions representation and equity. Come ready to connect and leave inspired and confident in your ability to pursue roles in educational leadership for change.

Presentation
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Hong Nguyen

Dr. Hong Nguyen

Director of Educational Equity, San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Dr. Hong Nguyen is the Director of Educational Equity for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. She started her career as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. Dr. Nguyen has been in the field of education for the past 20 years. She holds a Doctor... Read More →
avatar for Rose Lock

Rose Lock

Region 6 Executive Director, ACSA
Rose Lock has been the ACSA Region 6 Executive Director and Consultant since 2015. She retired as Assistant Superintendent in Educational Services from Mt. Diablo USD in 2015 after she served 25 years as a vice principal, principal and assistant superintendent.Rose started her educational... Read More →
avatar for Margrette Wui

Margrette Wui

Principal, San Ramon Valley USD
Principal of Tassajara Hills Elementary School in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. Born in the Philippines to Filipino parents and immigrated to the United States with her family when her father, a member of the U.S. Navy, was stationed in the U.S. Growing up in a military... Read More →
avatar for Mimi Quan

Mimi Quan

Coordinator of Assessment, Research & Evaluation, Contra Costa County Office of Education
Mimi Quan is an innovative educational leader with a focus on equity and diversity. With 25 years of experience as a teacher, site administrator and now at the Contra Costa Office of Education, she has worked with students from Transitional Kindergarten to adults at the university... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Bayview Ballroom

10:45am PDT

Blooming Where You Are Planted
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Being able to navigate organizational and political barriers can be tough but is a necessary part
of actualizing our work and challenging chronic inequities. This workshop will explore tools for
the trade for women leaders:
● Traits of Equity Literate Leaders
● Being a well balance leader
● Crafting uplifting conversations
● Managing aggressors and antagonizers
● Building coalitions, and action steps that sustain change

Participants will receive concrete strategies that can be used immediately in their role as a
leader. How we do the work is just as important as the work we do. Being able to “Bloom Where
You Are Planted” takes tenacity and tangible tools that can be used to propel our leadership
work forward.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Patricia Brent-Sanco

Dr. Patricia Brent-Sanco

Committee Chair, Lynwood USD
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Angel

10:45am PDT

Equity: From Data to Decision-making
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
In this engaging workshop, participants will explore how data can be leveraged to identify inequities, inform decision-making, and drive transformative change. Attendees will learn to interpret disaggregated data, uncover trends, and recognize systemic barriers impacting student outcomes.

The session will also focus on bridging the gap between data analysis and actionable strategies, equipping participants with tools to prioritize equity in policy development, resource allocation, and program implementation. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a roadmap for using data to make informed decisions that foster equity, inclusion, and student success across diverse educational contexts.

This session is ideal for school and district leaders, educators, and support staff committed to making data-driven decisions to create equitable learning environments.
Speakers
avatar for Rania El-Sioufi

Rania El-Sioufi

Director of Student Support, Equity & Inclusion, Acalanes Union High School District
As the Director of Student Support, Equity, and Inclusion at Acalanes Union High School District, Rania is committed to creating an environment where every student has equitable access to opportunities for success. With a deep passion for inclusive practices and holistic student support... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Quarter Deck

10:45am PDT

Wellness for Administrators Reduces Isolation & Increases Connectedness
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Today’s school leaders face a daunting task: being highly effective systems managers, instructional leaders, and community partners, all with reduced resources. The mental health needs of school leaders are often overlooked in professional development. In addition to their own stress, school leaders, especially leaders of color, often suffer from secondary traumatic stress—the emotional duress resulting from hearing about the firsthand trauma of others.

To address this, Human Resources developed an optional professional development program titled Wellness Wednesdays (WW) for Administrators. The purpose of WW was to create a protected online environment where school administrators could meet for one hour after work, once a week for 10 weeks, to engage in and deepen their wellness and self-care practices. Participants learned a variety of strategies to support their well-being, including intentional breathing, stretching, walking, socializing, art, and other approaches. In addition to the professional learning, participating administrators received monetary compensation for each hour of WW they attended.

For the District, this program validated the investment of human and fiscal resources into wellness. When asked to describe the impact WW had on their long-term well-being, participants reported several themes:
• Continued Engagement: Participants applied the variety of wellness and self-care strategies they learned in the program.
• Connectedness: Participants felt less isolated in their roles and built meaningful connections with friends and colleagues.
• Gratitude and Appreciation: Participants felt valued, especially by the District, for providing this opportunity.

The results were clear: school leaders who participated in a structured, routine, protected space to learn and practice wellness strategies reported significant improvements in their sense of well-being. Participants experienced a mindset shift from viewing wellness as a voluntary practice to recognizing it as a vital one, moving from languishing to flourishing.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Duncan

Mark Duncan

Administrative Coordinators, Los Angeles Unified School District
Mark Duncan is an experienced education professional with 27 years in the field, having served as a teacher, Instructional Coach, District Mathematics Coordinator, Principal, and Consultant. Currently, as Administrative Coordinator for Human Resources, Induction, and Credentialing... Read More →
avatar for Jeanne Gamba

Jeanne Gamba

Administrative Coordinators, Los Angeles Unified School District
Jeanne Gamba is an Administrative Coordinator for LAUSD's Administrative Service Credential (LAASC) Program, coaching and supporting administrators in building their capacity as equity-driven education leaders.  In collaboration with her team, Jeanne designs and presents professional... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Mariposa

12:00pm PDT

Luncheon Panel - Sponsored by Subject
Thursday March 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:15pm PDT
Moderators
avatar for Dr. Rebecca Pianta

Dr. Rebecca Pianta

Coordinator of College and Career Readiness, Santa Ana Unified School District
Dr. Rebecca Pianta is a champion for equity and a passionate advocate for the school counseling profession. With 16 years of experience in education, she has been a school counselor at all levels, district lead counselor, administrator, and adjunct professor. As Coordinator of Counseling... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Juan Campos

Juan Campos

Vice President/Clerk, San Lorenzo USD BOD
avatar for Cheryl Jordan

Cheryl Jordan

Picture ​Superintendent, Milpitas Unified School District
Entering her 36th year with Milpitas Unified School District, Superintendent Cheryl Jordan, the 2023 Association of California School Administrators State Superintendent of the Year, prides herself on making a positive, lasting impact in the lives of all colleagues, student learners... Read More →
avatar for Chris Norwood

Chris Norwood

Governing Board Trustee, Milpitas Unified School District
avatar for Dr. Daryl Camp

Dr. Daryl Camp

President-Elect, San Lorenzo Unified School District
Dr. Daryl F. Camp began serving as the superintendent of the San Lorenzo Unified School District in 2019. Previously, he served for seven years as the superintendent of the Riverbank Unified School District. Prior to 2012, he served as the assistant superintendent of educational services... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:15pm PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

1:30pm PDT

Building Success Layer by Layer: The UPK Implementation “Cake Study”
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Join us for a transformative workshop where we delve into the essential layers of building a robust and successful Early Childhood Education (ECE) program. Drawing on the metaphor of crafting the perfect cake, this workshop introduces the 'Cake Study' approach to Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) implementation, featuring a detailed walkthrough of successful case studies from early implementers in small, mid-sized districts and a county office of education. You'll learn how to layer your program with the crucial elements of compliance, curriculum, professional development, and community engagement, all while ensuring equity remains the yeast that allows your program to rise above the rest.

 [Click Here] to view our interactive dashboard that will be presented. 
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Heather Harris

Dr. Heather Harris

Enlighten
With a laser focus on educational justice, Dr. Heather Harris brings over 25 years of innovation and leadership to the education field. She has a deep-rooted passion for engaging families and supporting educators—who are a child's second family—as a vehicle to breaking down historical... Read More →
CH

Cynthia Holley

Enlighten Group
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Angel

1:30pm PDT

CANCELLED -The R.E.S.T'd Leader
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence; it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.” Audre Lorde
Now, more than ever, self-care is critical, not optional – and it’s linked to my signature approach to R.E.S.T (Restoratively Embracing Self Today). Self-care includes all the things you do to take care of your well-BEing in seven key dimensions, including our spiritual health. Anchoring to the work of other thought-leaders in the rest movement, Tovi guides us through experiential contemplative practices, reflection, and discussion. Participants will begin to assess the shifts we need to make in our lives to re-store ourselves to greater wellness....and how this powerfully links to giving those we lead permission to do the same. Of course, we also explore aspects of self-care and REST through the lens of equity and inclusion - and how rest is a key strategy for high-achieving and innovative, creative leaders. In this highly transformative experience, Tovi gives the opportunity to identify and evaluate your own strategies and create a personal R.E.S.T plan rooted in self-care practices that rely on choices, not a bank account.
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Bayview Ballroom

1:30pm PDT

Shifting to Asset Based Practices for Equitable Student Outcomes
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Socially conscious educators are responsible for creating environments where outrageous love is on full display while simultaneously setting high expectations and culturally responsive systems of support so students can thrive. This workshop will provide an overview of the power of asset based practices and the impact on equitable outcomes for students. Understanding identity, intersectionality, language, and asset-based mindsets serves as the baseline for student achievement while also serving as the base for strong family to school partnerships.
-Take inventory on their own identity
-Review asset-based vs. deficit based thinking and language
-Apply an asset-based framework to policies, practices and procedures in their schools.
Speakers
avatar for Shamar Edwards

Shamar Edwards

Senior Director of Equity, Alameda Unified School District and Restorative School Leadership Consulting
Shamar Edwards has 25 years experience leading and transforming schools as an educator, administrator, principal, leadership coach and consultant. She currently serves as a Senior Director of Equity for Alameda Unified School District. She holds 3 masters degrees in the following... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Quarter Deck

1:30pm PDT

Three Challenges to Conventional Wisdom About Data: What to do to Accelerate Learning
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle

Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle

Orenda Education - Shattering Inequitable Education Systems, Orenda
Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle is President and Founder of Orenda Education, a research, professional education and technical assistance organization. For more than 27 years, Dr. Avelar La Salle and the Orenda team have been thought partners for districts and schools aspiring to transform... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Bayview Ballroom

1:30pm PDT

Transforming Student Outcomes Through Access to Career Technical Education
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Career Technical Education (CTE) plays a critical role in preparing students for the future. CTE course data still suggests a large disparity of students with disabilities, students of color, and English Learners being unable to access these relevant learning opportunities. Join us as we share how we created CTE programming opportunities that were previously unavailable and inaccessible to marginalized youth.

We will explore the student voices, partnerships, and logistics that any school or district can use to increase access for students. We will also share the data findings related to academic achievement, attendance, and the decrease of undesired behaviors that often arise when our systems are not meeting the needs of our students.

Recognizing one of the largest challenges to opening access to CTE courses are interventions and support classes; we will demonstrate how we used an assessment of instructional minutes, master schedule creativity, connection to innovative teacher’s, and collaboration with community colleges to design CTE Masterclasses. These courses meet the equivalency of State mandated high school courses as well as the demand for A-G approved courses and labor market industry certifications.

Acknowledging that many schools and programs do not have funding to spare, we will explain how we approached sustainability through grants and explore best practices for finding success in CTE grant submissions.

You too can have engaged students, excited teachers, and CTE Pathway completers!
Speakers
avatar for Kris Shouse

Kris Shouse

Associate Superintendent, Educational Services, San Mateo County Office of Education
Kris Shouse is the Associate Superintendent of Educational Services at the San Mateo County Office of Education. A long-time educator and advocate for youth-centered education and support, Ms. Shouse leads the County Office of Education’s work to create safe and supportive schools... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Mariposa

2:45pm PDT

Aligning Equity Goals with Student Outcomes in Challenging Political Times
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle will provide valuable perspective and tips on how to prioritize student outcomes amidst challenging political times. How can leaders effectively balance many competing interests while keeping the primary focus on what matters most—our students? Be prepared to be enlightened, challenged (in the best possible way), and inspired.
1. Tips on how to prioritize student outcomes
2. Overview of learning acceleration formula
3. Most common systemic inequity traps

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle

Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle

Orenda Education - Shattering Inequitable Education Systems, Orenda
Dr. Robin Avelar La Salle is President and Founder of Orenda Education, a research, professional education and technical assistance organization. For more than 27 years, Dr. Avelar La Salle and the Orenda team have been thought partners for districts and schools aspiring to transform... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Bayview Ballroom

2:45pm PDT

Elevating Equity: Centering Student Voice Through Empathy Interviews
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Student voice is a powerful driver for equitable change, yet it is often overlooked in decision-making processes. This session will explore how empathy interviews can be used as a transformative tool to amplify student experiences, identify systemic barriers, and drive meaningful change. Participants will engage in reflective discussions on best practices for conducting empathy interviews, explore strategies to create safe spaces for students to share openly, and develop actionable plans to integrate student voice into policies and practices. By centering the lived experiences of students, educators can foster a culture of belonging and equity that leads to student-centered solutions.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Rebecca Pianta

Dr. Rebecca Pianta

Coordinator of College and Career Readiness, Santa Ana Unified School District
Dr. Rebecca Pianta is a champion for equity and a passionate advocate for the school counseling profession. With 16 years of experience in education, she has been a school counselor at all levels, district lead counselor, administrator, and adjunct professor. As Coordinator of Counseling... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Angel

2:45pm PDT

Leveraging Systems Thinking to Disrupt Systemic Inequity
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
This session will introduce critical systems thinking strategies and tools and provide participants with meaningful practice interrogating leadership actions to maximize their potential to effect sustainable system-wide change.
1) Be introduced to 14 habits of system thinkers that can help leaders navigate complex change efforts
2) Practice utilizing the systems thinking habits using "ripped from the headlines" case studies from complex public systems
3) Reflect individually and collectively on the importance of a systems approach to ensuring educational equity and the barriers leaders face in enacting these.
Speakers
avatar for Lihi Rosenthal

Lihi Rosenthal

Director, LEAD EdD, UC Berkeley
Lihi Rosenthal serves as Program Director of UC Berkeley’s Leaders for Equity and Democracy (LEAD), a re-imagined EdD program that prepares experienced school leaders for the challenges of advancing equity at the system level. In addition, Lihi teaches in the Principal Leadership... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Quarter Deck

2:45pm PDT

LGBTQ+ Legislative Debrief & Resources For Entering 2025
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
To better understand the future political climate for the LGBTQ+ community here in California, it is worth considering the last two years in review; both nationally and within the state. Common types of legislation are likely to continue to be introduced at every level of government across the country, and what has failed to pass in the past is likely to be re-introduced. This workshop will prepare you for the year 2025 and teach you how to both read and keep track of state-based legislation that affects the LGBTQ+ community.

It offers two free takeaway documents that you can share with your staff, families, and students: an LGBTQ+ legislative debrief for entering 2025, and a comprehensive resource guide that is intended to help LGBTQ+ people and allies locate services covering a wide range of intersectional issues and needs. The resources are categorized loosely into topics such as; administrative resources, community and non-profit resources, family resources, general resources, legal resources, mental and physical health resources, sex ed/family planning resources, and youth resources.
Speakers
avatar for Vann Jones

Vann Jones

Independent Consultant, Vann Jones
Vann Jones is a transgender political analyst and activist, community organizer, educator, and caretaker, born and raised in the East Bay Area. Vann got his start in working towards community care at the age of 12 when he became heavily involved in the Castro Valley Unified School... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Mariposa

4:00pm PDT

Student Panel with Dr. Vajra Watson
Thursday March 13, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Varja Watson

Dr. Varja Watson

Full Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies | Senior Associate Vice President | Placer Campus, Sacramento State University
Vajra M. Watson is a full tenured Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies and currently serves as the Senior Associate Vice President of the Sacramento State Placer Satellite Campus. Prior to this role, she was the Faculty Director of the doctoral program at Sac State... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

5:30pm PDT

Networking Reception
Thursday March 13, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Thursday March 13, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Bayview Ballroom

5:45pm PDT

Dinner on Own
Thursday March 13, 2025 5:45pm - 9:00pm PDT
Thursday March 13, 2025 5:45pm - 9:00pm PDT
 
Friday, March 14
 

7:00am PDT

Full Networking Breakfast
Friday March 14, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am PDT
Friday March 14, 2025 7:00am - 8:00am PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

8:00am PDT

Building Community Partnerships
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Vista Unified is in the third year of community school work, and eleventh year with a focus on Family and Community Engagement. We will share practices and timeline to support others in their journey.

- Have a list of strategies to increase family and community engagement.
- Align FACE work with LCFF priorities.
- Understand the relevance of community partnerships with equity.
Speakers
avatar for Joan Faus, Ed.D.

Joan Faus, Ed.D.

Director, Student Support Services, Vista Unified School District
A leader, educator, and learner who has been in education since 2003. Before working within district leadership, Dr. Joan Faus was a 3rd- 8th-grade teacher, academic coach, grant coordinator, vice-principal, and two principalships. Joan has a love for equity with a focus on positivity... Read More →
avatar for Juliet Ross-Ma'u

Juliet Ross-Ma'u

Dean of Students, Vista Unified School District
avatar for Lydia Contreras

Lydia Contreras

Counselor, Vista Unified School District
Lydia T. Contreras is a dedicated and experienced school counselor with over a decade of experience in education, currently serving as a community school counselor for the past 2.5 years. Prior to this role, she spent five years as a high school counselor, helping students navigate... Read More →
avatar for Rebekka Kinder

Rebekka Kinder

Community School Lead, Vista Unified School District
avatar for Danielle McKeever

Danielle McKeever

Community School Lead, Vista Unified School District
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Mariposa

8:00am PDT

Creating White Anti-Racist Leader Networks
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Designing professional learning that supports white leaders to examine and reflect on their racial identity is absolutely essential to creating more equitable schools. Using the work of the UC Berkeley Leadership Programs as well as the 21st Century California School Leadership Academy, we will share about two different White Anti-Racist Leader Networks. You will hear from the facilitators about common dilemmas and issues that surface as well as stories of impact that emphasize the importance of this work.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Cheung

Rebecca Cheung

Program Coordinator, Calif Dept of Education
Rebecca Cheung is the Assistant Dean of Berkeley School of Education's Leadership Development programs. She also serves as the Principal Investigator and Director for the 21st Century School Leadership Academy (21CSLA) State Center. Funded by the state, 21CSLA is dedicated to the... Read More →
avatar for Erin Schweng

Erin Schweng

Director, 21CSLA Bay Area Regional Academy
Erin Schweng serves as the Director for the 21CSLA Bay Area Regional Academy. Prior to joining the Leadership Programs at the Berkeley School of Education, Erin was part of the Berkeley Unified School District for 22 years. Her roles included teaching at the elementary and middle... Read More →
avatar for Lihi Rosenthal

Lihi Rosenthal

Director, LEAD EdD, UC Berkeley
Lihi Rosenthal serves as Program Director of UC Berkeley’s Leaders for Equity and Democracy (LEAD), a re-imagined EdD program that prepares experienced school leaders for the challenges of advancing equity at the system level. In addition, Lihi teaches in the Principal Leadership... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Quarter Deck

8:00am PDT

Elevating and Addressing the Needs of Multilingual Students Within Systems That Are Not Designed To
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
ABOUT OUR SESSION:
Historically, MVHS had a small population of multilingual students, but like many schools across California, we are experiencing an increase in those numbers. This presents both challenges and opportunities, as we work to serve all students who have a wide range of learning needs within systems and processes that were established long ago. In contrast to their primary focus on becoming fluent in English, many of our newcomer families bring an extensive educational experience from their home countries and deeply value schooling. This nuance requires that we are even more thoughtful about designing an individualized instructional program for some of our ELs.

This session will start with an overview about our journey, wins, and obstacles as we are building an ELD program mostly from scratch. In the second part, we wil facilitate interactive discussions where participants can have an opportunity to learn in community about what they are most interested in, from the experiences and expertise of others in the room. We will provide scaffolds to help attendees gather, organize and reflect on different aspects of this work, which they can take back to their own schools. Our goal is to resource everyone in the room to help guide all of our schools’ journeys. We are all developing, promoting, and sustaining effective supports for each of our unique populations of multilingual students and their families, so we want to learn from other people.

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL’S BACKGROUND AND VALUES:
The Monte Vista High School community demographics have changed significantly over the past five years. Our student and caregiver populations are becoming more racially diverse, and we are seeing an increase in enrollment of English Language Learners and newly immigrated students. As a predominantly White (but shifting) staff, all of whom are native English speakers minus a few, we have made it a priority to closely examine at all of our practices through an inclusive lens. This includes being more intentional with instructional and social-emotional strategies, to re-assessing our definitions of what a “positive campus culture” and “school spirit“ mean, to deepening awareness throughout our athletics programs, and to dismantling and rebuilding various systems that have become embedded in our school over the years. We have a long way to go, but our conversations are more transparent and courageous than ever. We are proud to be doing work that can sometimes feel uncomfortable… which is how we know we are doing the right work.
Speakers
avatar for Angie Corritone (she/her)

Angie Corritone (she/her)

Assistant Principal, Monte Vista High School, SRVUSD
Angie’s current heart work is as an Assistant Principal at Monte Vista High School but she has served in many roles over her 30-year career  including Equity Instructional Coach, District EdTech Administrator, and Alt Ed Teacher. She is honored to be trusted with the responsibility... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Bell

Lauren Bell

COUNSELOR, HIGH, Monte Vista High School
High School Counselor in the Bay Area with 10 years of experience supporting multilingual learners. Originally from Louisiana, proud UCLA alum with master's degree in counseling from SF State, huge Golden Girls fan, and mediocre roller skater.
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Angel

8:00am PDT

Structures for Self-Care and Caring for Others within Teams
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
During the session, we will explore self-care through developing self-awareness and strategies for mindfulness. We will expand on how these tools can also be adapted in a team environment to support accessibility and inclusivity in diverse teams. We will also share a tool to assess emotional engagement at work and how teams can support the well-being of all team members through structured routines. The practices in the session are rooted in Liberatory Design Mindsets, including: practicing self-awareness, building relational trust, and working to transform power.

Speakers
avatar for Joy Dardenelle

Joy Dardenelle

Executive Director, San Mateo COE
Joy Dardenelle is the Executive Director of District Improvement and Support at the San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE). As head of the Systems for District Improvement department, Ms. Dardenelle leverages opportunities to operationalize equity through close relationships... Read More →
avatar for Gracie Estrella

Gracie Estrella

Coordinator, San Mateo COE
Gracie Estrella is a Coordinator of District Support and Improvement at the San Mateo County Office of Education providing district leaders with technical support in writing and implementing LCAPs, Differentiated Assistance and in utilizing Improvement Science to evaluate school systems... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Ochoa

Jessica Ochoa

Administrative Assistant III, District Improvement and Support, San Mateo County Office of Education
Jessica began at San Mateo County Office of Education in July of 2023 as an Administrative Assistant III for Systems for District Improvement in the Educational Services Division. She has worked in education for the past 12 years, first as an administrative assistant in the Ravenswood... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Bayview Ballroom

9:15am PDT

Designing Affinity Groups to Uplift, Amplify, and Empower Leaders of Color
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
This session will share research based approaches that inform the design of affinity groups that uplift, amplify, and empower underrepresented leaders to thrive in their work environments. Using the work of the UC Berkeley Leadership Programs as well as the 21st Century California School Leadership Academy, we will share concrete ways to facilitate powerful professional learning that supports leader of color retention and effectiveness. Specifically, we will share about a successful district based leaders of color network as well as regionally based affinity groups for African American, AAPI, and Latinx leaders.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Cheung

Rebecca Cheung

Program Coordinator, Calif Dept of Education
Rebecca Cheung is the Assistant Dean of Berkeley School of Education's Leadership Development programs. She also serves as the Principal Investigator and Director for the 21st Century School Leadership Academy (21CSLA) State Center. Funded by the state, 21CSLA is dedicated to the... Read More →
avatar for Richard Zapien

Richard Zapien

Professional Learning Coordinator, 21CSLA Bay Area Regional Academy Leadership Programs, UC Berkeley School of Education
Richard brings more than 25 years of experience in TK–12 education, including roles as a classroom teacher, principal, and school district administrator. Throughout his career, these varied roles have sharpened his focus on equity, prioritizing the needs of students, their families... Read More →
avatar for Soraya A Sablo-Sutton

Soraya A Sablo-Sutton

Director, Principal Leadership Institute, UC Berkeley
Dr. Soraya Sablo Sutton is the Program Director of the Principal Leadership Institute (PLI) at UC Berkeley. She received her Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley Graduate School of Education in the division of Language, Literacy, and Culture in 2003. A central focus of... Read More →
avatar for Wesley Tang

Wesley Tang

Leadership Coaching Program Coordinatort, 21CSLA Bay Area Regional Academy Leadership Programs, UC Berkeley School of Education
Wesley Tang has over 30 years of education experience in diverse roles, primarily in urban school settings. He has served as a teacher, literacy coach, instructional reform facilitator, site administrator, and district office leader, each providing unique insights and reinforcing... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Bayview Ballroom

9:15am PDT

Empowering School Leaders to Create LGBTQ+ Affirming Environments
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Recognizing a growing need to support LGBTQ inclusivity in education, Leading LGBTQ+ Supportive Education was added to the complement of professional development opportunities for school administrators offered by the Los Angeles Unified Human Resources Division. The series focused on critical topics such as transformational leadership, administrator wellness, human capital management, coaching, and leading computer science.
This session aimed to equip school site leaders with the knowledge and tools to foster affirming environments for LGBTQ+ students, staff, and families. Topics included foundational LGBTQ+ definitions and concepts, an overview of relevant LAUSD and state policies, and strategies for implementing visible support and inclusive language. The professional development also emphasized the importance of establishing LGBTQ+ liaisons, creating student groups like Genders & Sexualities Alliances, and embedding ongoing training for administrators to address real-world scenarios.
Participants noted several key takeaways:
• The critical role of inclusive language and visible allyship in fostering affirming school spaces.
• The need for sustained training to deepen understanding and tackle practical challenges.
• The value of scenario-based learning and access to dedicated resources to implement LGBTQ+ policies effectively.
This presentation will highlight the program's design, key learning outcomes, and participant feedback while sharing actionable strategies for attendees to replicate.
Speakers
avatar for Judy Chiasson, PhD

Judy Chiasson, PhD

LAUSD, Human Relations, Diversity & Equity, LAUSD
Dr. Chiasson is recognized as a national leader in supporting SOGIE-affirming learning and working environments for students, staff, and families. She is designs and implements district-wide initiatives, curates resources, and advises on legislation. She also leads a team of amazing... Read More →
avatar for Julie Hall-Panameno

Julie Hall-Panameno

LA Unified Specialist-Human Relations, Diversity & Equity, LA Unified
Julie Hall-Panameno (she/her) of the LA Unified Human Relations Diversity and Equity office has spent over 20+ years advocating for student civil rights. She played a pivotal role in many of the District's foundational nondiscrimination policies. She sees conflict resolution skills... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Angel

9:15am PDT

The Power of Connection Through Ethnic Studies: ES Pedagogy as CxRxPx: Healing Identity (In Theory & Praxis!)
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Tolteka takes us on travels through Ethnic Studies Pedagogy (ESP), framing, and praxis. From a leader in the field, journey through experiential activities, and the correspondent Ethnic Studies disciplinary framings, that remind us, Ethnic Studies Pedagogy, cannot simply be conflated as culturally relevant/responsive pedagogy. When brought to genuine fruition, ESP can actually support students’ positive racial identity development, through helping to heal, sustain, and revitalize/regenerate students’ identities as holistic human beings, and in transformational ways – bringing the academic and social benefits that Ethnic Studies is known for (e.g. increased student attendance, higher graduation rates, higher college going rates), in the process. Learn more about how to bring this to fruition, in theory and pragmatically.

How can LEA and schoolsite administrators/leaders, teachers, and most importantly, students, learning these key Ethnic Studies framings and activities — help cultivate a connection to collective care, wellness, and be a small step towards helping to eradicate racism for a more just and equitable future? 

www.tolteka.com

For LEA cabinet/senior/director leadership level strategic support (including expert Ethnic Studies political landscape analyses), or coordinator level programmatic, curricular, and instructional expert support (including for conferences, keynotes, admin and teacher professional development, coaching, course reviews and development) — and related services to take your Ethnic Studies strategic and implementational realms to the next level, with proven positive impacts for educators and students, from a framer and thought leader in the field: please complete the contact form at www.tolteka.com 
Speakers
avatar for R. Tolteka Cuauhtin

R. Tolteka Cuauhtin

Principal Consultant, Nationally Recognized Ethnic Studies Expert & Leader
R. Tolteka Cuauhtin (he/him) is a nationally recognized Ethnic Studies and social justice educational leader, born and raised on the unceded ancestral lands of the Tataviam and Tongva (Los Angeles, California). He is one of the most influential framers of K12 Ethnic Studies in the... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Quarter Deck

10:30am PDT

Closing Keynote with Dr. Joaquin Noguera
Friday March 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Joaquín Noguera

Dr. Joaquín Noguera

Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership and Administration, Loyola Marymount University
Joaquín Noguera is an assistant professor of educational leadership at Loyola Marymount University (LMU) in Los Angeles where he teaches in the leadership for social justice doctoral program, as well as in the masters and administrative credentialing programs. Noguera received his... Read More →
Friday March 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom

12:00pm PDT

Grab and Go Snacks
Friday March 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Friday March 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Treasure/Belvedere/Yerba Buena Ballroom
 
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