CLSBA Unity 2026: Full Schedule

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12:00pm PDT

Lunch General Session: AI & the Future of Learning: Keeping People at the Heart of Innovation

Saturday August 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT

Enjoy lunch, live student entertainment, and a thought-provoking conversation about one of the most important questions facing education today: How can we use AI to strengthen learning, empower families, and elevate our communities while keeping people at the center?
Hear from Dr. Andres Bustamante, an expert in early childhood education, learning, and artificial intelligence, as he explores the possibilities of using AI to enhance—not replace—the relationships, culture, creativity, and human connection that make education meaningful.
We’ll also hear from our students at Christopher Elementary School, Oak Grove School District, and invite you to share your voice through the Unity Conference Survey.
Come enjoy the performance. Stay for the conversation. Leave inspired by what AI can make possible.

Speakers

Dr. Andres Bustamante

Researcher and Professor, UC Irvine

Andres Bustamante Ph.D. is an Associate Professor at the University of California Irvine’s School of Education. He directs the Social, iTerative, Engaged, and Meaningful (STEM) Learning Lab. Andres designs and implements play-based early childhood STEM interventions in places and... Read More →

Saturday August 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
Main Ballroom

General Session

3:15pm PDT

UnityLeadership, Legacy & the Future of California Education

Saturday August 29, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Spend Saturday afternoon with leaders who are helping shape the future of California education and celebrating those already making a difference in their communities.
Hear from Richard Barrera, candidate for California Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Fiona Ma, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, as they share their perspectives on the future of education and California’s next generation of leaders.
We’ll also celebrate four outstanding Latino/a Educational Advancement & Distinction (LEAD) Award recipients whose leadership and commitment are making an impact across California:
• Stockton Unified School District
• Oak Grove School District
• Monterey Peninsula Unified School District
• Keppel Union School District
Hear from tomorrow’s leaders. Celebrate today’s changemakers. Be inspired by what’s possible.

Speakers

Fiona Ma, CPA

Treasurer; Candidate for Lt. Governor, State of California

Richard Barrera

Board President; Candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, San Diego Unified School District

The son of an immigrant father from Colombia and the grandson of Ellis Island immigrants, Richard Barrera’s story is one of sacrifice, opportunity, and the transformative power of public education.Richard’s family came to the United States searching for a better life and quickly... Read More →

Saturday August 29, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Main Ballroom