CLSBA Unity 2026: Full Schedule

1:00pm PDT

Unity Registration Open

Thursday August 27, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Welcome to Unity! Pick up your badges.

Thursday August 27, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Registration

3:00pm PDT

Unity Opening: Leadership, Culture & Live Music

Thursday August 27, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Unity starts here! Join us as we officially open the 2026 Unity Conference with an inspiring celebration of leadership, culture, and community. Hear from distinguished education leaders, including representatives from the California State Board of Education, and experience the energy of our community through Aztec dancers, live music, and School Yard Rap featuring an incredible...
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Speakers

Calpulli Tonalehqueh Aztec Dancers

Sara Bachez

Senior Director, Education Policy and Advocacy, Children Now

Dr. Francisco Escobedo

California State Board of Education

Dr. Francisco Escobedo has been an educator the better part of 30 years. He was the Superintendent of the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) for over a decade. Located in southern San Diego County, the District's 46 schools serve over 29,400 students. In 2019, the Learning... Read More →

Dr. Beatriz Chaidez

Chancellor, San Jose Evergreen Community College District

With a career that began as a classroom teacher, Dr. Beatriz Chaidez has spent more than 25 years in education. Currently chancellor of San José – Evergreen Community College District (SJECCD), Dr. Chaidez previously held the roles of interim chancellor, vice chancellor of human... Read More →

School Yard Rap

Thursday August 27, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Main Ballroom

General Session

5:00pm PDT

Unity Kickoff: Let the Celebration Begin!

Thursday August 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm PDT

Let’s kick off Unity with a night of connection, celebration, and fun! Come together with fellow school board members, educators, and friends to unwind, enjoy great company, and celebrate the start of an incredible conference.
Bring your energy, your smile, and your Unity spirit — this is where the conference really begins!

Thursday August 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm PDT

Reception

6:45pm PDT

Dinners on your own

Thursday August 27, 2026 6:45pm - 8:30pm PDT

7:00am PDT

Morning Flex Time & Breakfast on Your Own

Friday August 28, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am PDT

Enjoy a relaxed start to your day! Use this time for a morning workout, a nice walk, breakfast on your own or with friends, or simply some quiet time to get centered and ready for the day.
Coffee will be available at 8:00 AM as we get ready to start the day together.

Friday August 28, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am PDT

Hospitality

7:45am PDT

Unity Registration Open

Friday August 28, 2026 7:45am - 4:00pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Pick up your badges.

Friday August 28, 2026 7:45am - 4:00pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Registration

8:00am PDT

Coffee and Exhibit Visits

Friday August 28, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am PDT

Main Ballroom

Friday August 28, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am PDT
Main Ballroom

Meal

9:00am PDT

Evolving MTSS: Lessons Learned in Building Responsive Systems for Student Success

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

San Carlos

Improving attendance and engagement is a continuous process of learning, adaptation, and growth. In this session, leaders will explore an 11-year evolution of attendance and engagement efforts within a school district, highlighting how systems and structures have been refined over time to address the changing needs of students, staff, families, and the community. Presenters will share lessons...
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Speakers

Juan Cuz

Superintendent, Franklin-McKinley School District

Limary Trujillo

Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Franklin-McKinley School District

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

From Voice to Action: Building Civically Engaged Students through Purposeful Schoolwide Practices

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

How can School Boards/Districts/Schools move beyond isolated programs to ensure 100% of students engage in meaningful civic learning? This session highlights an award-winning school-wide model embedding civic engagement across instruction, leadership, and partnerships that improves engagement, climate, and achievement. Participants will learn how governance teams can support systems that shift...
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Speakers

Dr. Elida MacArthur

Superintendent, August Boeger Middle School/Mount Pleasant Elementary School District

r. Elida MacArthur was selected as Superintendent by the Mount Pleasant Elementary School District’s Board of Trustees in August of 2020. With more than two decades of service to the District, she began her career as a Kindergarten Dual Language Immersion Teacher and worked her... Read More →

Melissa Got-Lopez

MPESD Board Trustee, August Boeger Middle School/Mount Pleasant Elementary School District

Raquel Topete

Principal, August Boeger Middle School/Mount Pleasant Elementary School District

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

Puentes al Éxito: Strategic Governance and the Power of K-16 College Partnerships

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Theme: Community-Centered Governance & LeadershipSession DescriptionHow can school board leadership transform a traditional K-12 district into a powerhouse of collegiate opportunity? This session explores a comprehensive framework for building high-impact partnerships between school districts and higher education institutions. Participants will move beyond basic dual enrollment to discover how...
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Speakers

Dora Delgado

Interim Superintendent, ERUSD

Jazmin Chavez-Diaz

Director of Secondary Education, El Rancho Unified School District

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

Transforming Comprehensive High School Sites to Full-Scale Early Colleges

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

McFarland Unified School District is leading the state in a bold new effort to expand equitable access to college credit opportunities to high school students. The new McFarland Dual Enrollment Hub will support K-12 districts from across the state in implementing “wall-to-wall” dual enrollment pathways that enable all students to graduate with at least 12 college credits. This session will...
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Speakers

Aaron Resendez

Superintendent, McFarland Unified School District

Dario Diaz

Principal, McFarland High School

Kylie Campbell

Assistance Vice Chancellor of College and Career Pathways, California Community College Chancellor's Office

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

Undacamented Teachers: From Credential to Classroom

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 3

The California Faculty Association is the nation's largest faculty union. This workshop addresses legislative challenges facing undocumented students at California State University (CSU). Utilizing a racial-justice lens, the session examines the issues facing undocumented students who complete a teaching credential but who, upon graduation, can not teach in K-12 districts. The workshop analyzes...
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Speakers

Dr. Theresa Montano

Trustee, Los Angeles COE

Friday August 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Creating Multilingual School Districts: The Schools we Need for a Multilingual California

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

Preparing all students to thrive and lead in a global world, and closing gaps for our culturally and linguistically diverse students requires visionary and strategic leadership. Creating multilingual school districts that reflect, embrace, and support our diverse communities is the critical next step for California. Come hear from school board members and superintendents at LEA and County...
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Speakers

Elodia Ortega-Lampkin

Superintendent, Woodland Joint School District

Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin possesses a diverse range of experience throughout her 31-year career in education. Her career began as a student-teacher at Dingle Elementary School and she served in the California Mini-Corps Program as a tutor/para educator at Grafton Elementary... Read More →

Izela Jacobo

Senior Director, San Diego County Office of Education

Izela Jacobo is an Executive Leadership Coach for the San Diego County Office of Education Multilingual Education and Global Achievement Department. She's also a lecturer for the San Diego State University Dual Language and English Learner Education Program. Previously, Izela was... Read More →

Dr. Yolanda Rogers

Assistant Superintendent, SDCOE

Alicia Muñoz

School Board Member, San Diego County Office of Education

Dr. Gloria Ciriza

Superintendent, San Diego County Superintendent of Schools

Claudia Rodriguez Mojica

Board Trustee, Woodland Joint School District

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Cultivating Excellence: How Board Governance Catalyzed Student Achievement

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Willow Glen 3

This proposal highlights the successful partnership between the Newhall School District (NSD) Governing Board and Newhall Elementary School to drive significant academic growth. By shifting from a compliance-based model to one of "Collective Inquiry" and strategic resource allocation, the district has seen a positive trajectory in CAASPP scores and foundational literacy. The session will explore...
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Speakers

Suzan Solomon

Governing Board President, Newhall School District

Suzan Solomon has lived in the Newhall School District Community since 1986. She moved to the area with her husband Eskel because of the small town feeling of Santa Clarita, and its highly acclaimed school districts. Not only have they found Santa Clarita a wonderful place to raise... Read More →

Leticia Hernandez

Superintendent, Newhall School District

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

From Voice to Influence: Developing Student Leaders through School Board Governance and Superintendent's Advisory Council

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

San Carlos

From Voice to Influence: Developing Student Leaders through School Board Governance and Superintendent's Advisory CouncilStudent voice is most powerful when it moves beyond participation and becomes meaningful influence. This engaging session will explore how school districts can intentionally develop student leaders through Student Board Member programs and Superintendent's Student Advisory...
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Speakers

Dr. Constantino Aguilar

Superintendent, Riverbank Unified School District

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Human-Centered AI: Building Ethical and Equitable AI Systems in Public Education

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Guadlupe

Sunnyvale School District will share how it developed a human-centered framework for Artificial Intelligence that prioritizes equity, professional judgment, student safety, and instructional excellence. Participants will learn how the district created AI guidance, established guardrails, engaged stakeholders, and developed phased implementation plans aligned to district values and strategic...
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Speakers

Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D

Superintendent, Sunnyvale School District

Dr. Gudiel R. Crosthwaite has dedicated over 30 years to public education, championing equity, mentorship, and student success. He began his career in 1994 as a classroom teacher and has since served in leadership roles at every level—elementary, middle, and high school.In 2025... Read More →

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Leveraging Municipal, County, and Community Partnerships for Shared Governance and Accountability

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

Share how leveraging municipal, county, and community board relationships are essential to ensure shared governance and accountability while leveraging community capital

Speakers

Cynthia Salas

Boart Trustee, Oxnard School District

Friday August 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Ambassador Student Leadership and Civic Engagement

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

The Ambassador Program at Buena Park School District empowers at-promise students to effectively use their voices by building communication and leadership skills that foster confidence, personal growth, and a commitment to civic engagement. Emphasizing student leadership, voice, agency, and advocacy, this program equips students to make meaningful contributions to the district and community. Now...
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Speakers

Jerry Frutos

President, Buena Park School District

Dr. Julienne Lee

Superintendent, Buena Park School District

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Community Schools You Can Measure - Turning Student Voice Into Pillar-Level Evidence

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 3

Speakers

Dr. Francisco Escobedo

CA State Board Member

Dr. Leticia Bhatia

Superintendent, John Sweet USD

Dr. Joshua Arnold

Co-CEO, Impacter Pathway

Russell Coronado

Former Board Member of Chula Vista ESD & Executive Director, SDCOE South County SELPA

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Effective Communication Between Board and Superintendent

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

Effective Communication Between Board and Superintendent

Speakers

Dr. Jesus Vaca

Superintendent, Somis USD

Cynthia Salas

Boart Trustee, Oxnard School District

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Empowering Our At-Promise Students Through Alternative Education ¡Con Ganas y Poder!

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

San Carlos

This session will examine how the AUHSD Community Schools framework transforms alternative education from a deficit-based "last resort" into an asset-based powerhouse that unlocks student potential through the six community school pillars.

Speakers

Jose Lara

Coordinator of Alternative Education, Anaheim Union High School District

Jessica Guerrero

President, Anaheim Union High School District Board of Trustees

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

From Collaboration to Collective Cognition: Leadership Practices That Drive Student Achievement

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Guadlupe

Schools collaborate constantly, yet achievement gaps often persist. This session challenges leaders to move beyond surface-level collaboration toward generative collaboration that produces deeper thinking, equitable decision-making, and measurable impact on student learning. Grounded in cultural proficiency and cognitive coaching practices, participants will examine how leadership teams can...
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Speakers

Roberto Núñez, Ed.D

Director, Monterey COE

Friday August 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

12:00pm PDT

Welcome Lunch: The Future of California: Education, Opportunity & Power

Friday August 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Unity Voices: Education, Opportunity & the Future of California Experience a powerful midday gathering that brings culture, connection, and big ideas to the heart of Unity. We’ll begin with live music and a special First Nations belonging ceremony, creating a meaningful moment to honor the land, community, and connections that bring us together. Then, join Dr. Iliana Perez of...
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Speakers

Dr. Carmen Garcia

Superintendent, Morgan Hill USD

Dr. Carmen García was born in Tepatitlán, Jalisco, México, and grew up in Southern California where she took full advantage of her K-12 education. Subsequently, she attended the University of San Diego where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History... Read More →

Julian Castro

CEO, Latino Community Foundation

Julián Castro serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Latino Community Foundation, the nation’s largest Latino-serving foundation.Julián’s deep commitment to the future of this nation is woven into his DNA. Raised by his mother Rosie Castro, a civil rights and Chicana activist, and his grandmother, Victoria Castro, on the westside of San Antonio, Texas, Julian grew up with a profound understanding of what... Read More →

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson

President, California State University, San Jose

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson became President of San José State University in January 2023, taking the helm of California’s first public university and the founding campus of the California State University system. As the first Latina president in SJSU’s history, she is leading... Read More →

Dr. Iliana Perez

CEO, Immigrants Raising

Iliana G. Perez, Ph.D.
An esteemed leader in the field of immigrant entrepreneurship, Dr. Perez (she/her) brings over a decade of experience as a researcher and advocate for immigrant rights to her role at Immigrants Rising. She has pioneered initiatives to empower and support undocumented entrepreneurs... Read More →

Eloy Ortiz Oakley

CEO, College Futures Foundation

Eloy Ortiz Oakley is an American educator, leader, and advisor and is widely regarded as a leading voice on improving equity in higher education and positioning institutions to respond to global shifts in the workforce and the future of learning.Oakley was appointed president and... Read More →

Friday August 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
Main Ballroom

General Session

1:45pm PDT

Board Members Drive Impact for Multilingual Students: Adopting High-Quality Instructional Materials

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 2

Overview:The time for bold leadership for multilingual students is now. California’s current math curriculum adoption and ELA/ELD/SLA cycles offer a critical opportunity to improve instruction for over 5 million students, including 1.1 million multilingual learners (MLLs). With two-thirds of students performing below basic proficiency on the Nation’s Report Card and only 10% of English...
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Speakers

Benito Aranda-Comer

Policy Analyst, Ed Trust West

Dr. Renae Skarin

Senior Advisor, ELSF

Renae Skarin has almost 30 years of experience working with English learner and minoritized populations through research, advocacy, and program development and implementation with educators nationwide and abroad. She currently serves as the Senior Advisor for Content at the English... Read More →

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

California Administrators’ Equity Alliance: Affinity Panel

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 3

Join us for a powerful panel conversation where affinity groups come together to elevate shared priorities in education. In partnership with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA), the California Association of Asian Pacific Leaders in Education (CAAPLE), and the California Association...
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Speakers

Mr. Anthony Robinson

Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Innovative Learning, ACSA

Dr. Edgar Zazueta

Executive Director, Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)

Edgar Zazueta served as the ACSA Senior Director of Policy and Governmental Relations beginning in 2015, and was appointed as Executive Director in 2022.

Prior to joining ACSA, Zazueta served as the Chief of External Affairs for Los Angeles Unified School District. In this capacity, he represented the superintendent and board of education before community organizations and led legislative advocacy at the federal, state, and local levels... Read More →

Dr. Antoine Hawkins

President, California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA)

Dr. Tracie Noriega

Senior Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, & Professional Learning, Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)

Jessica Ochoa

Chief Executive Officer, California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA)

Dr. Rene Rickard

President, Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)

Dr. Juan Manuel Santos

President, California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA)

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

Expanding Access to the State Seal of Biliteracy in California

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 1

This workshop will focus on the expansion of the State Seal of Biliteracy (SSB) and actions that governing board can take to increase access. It will be an opportunity for school board members to learn about the SSB and reflect on strategies to ensure that more students have an opportunity to attain it. Strategies will focus on both supporting students in high school and on creating multiple...
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Speakers

Manuel Buenrostro

Policy Director, Californians Together

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

From Access to Outcomes: Transforming Systems to Ensure Every Student Thrives

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Guadlupe

Sunnyvale School District will share how it used a districtwide systems analysis to identify barriers to student success and build a more coherent, equity-centered improvement strategy. Participants will learn how district and board leadership aligned around student outcomes, instructional coherence, access to rigorous coursework, and stronger Tier 1 systems to better serve historically...
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Speakers

Isabel Jubes-Flamerich

President, California Association of Latino Leaders in Education (CALLE)

Isabel Jubes-Flamerich is an education leader, elected school board trustee, architect, designer, and longtime advocate for educational equity, sustainability, and student success. Originally from Venezuela, Isabel brings her experience as an immigrant, parent, educator, and community... Read More →

Peggy Shen Brewster

Board President, Sunnyvale School District

Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D

Superintendent, Sunnyvale School District

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

From Research to Action: Expanding Bilingual Education Access in California Schools

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

San Carlos

California's Multilingual Learner achievement gap persists in part because bilingual educational opportunities remain concentrated in formal program models, out of reach for most Multilingual Learner students. New WestEd research conducted in Silicon Valley documents the current state of bilingual program access, resource investment, and family engagement in the region — and identifies concrete...
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Speakers

Alex Jacobson

Research Manager, WestEd

Friday August 28, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

2:45pm PDT

Coffee, Sweets and Exhibit Visits

Friday August 28, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Friday August 28, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Meal

3:15pm PDT

Unity: Celebrating Leadership, Impact & Our Future

Friday August 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Close out an incredible day of Unity with an afternoon celebrating the leaders, educators, and advocates who are shaping the future of California education. Hear from Dr. Margarita Berta-Ávila, President of the California Faculty Association, as she shares her perspective on the issues and opportunities facing California educators. Help shape CALLE’s legislative...
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Friday August 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Main Ballroom

General Session

4:45pm PDT

Healing Drum Circle

Friday August 28, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Maggie Steele has been inspiring and empowering Mendocino County andneighboring communities for more than 30 years. A dynamic speaker, educator, andcommunity leader, she has delivered impactful trainings, presentations, youth programs,and school assemblies in Ukiah, Willits, Round Valley, and beyond—leaving lastingimpressions wherever she goes.Cultural Leadership and the heART of Wellness is a...
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Speakers

Maggie Steele

Founder, 7 th Generation Warriors for Peace

Maggie Steele is the founder of 7 th Generation Warriors for Peace an organization dedicated to
working with tribes, communities, organizations, adult and youth detention facilities, in cultural
leadership, healing and empowerment. She has implemented leadership programs and youth
e... Read More →

Friday August 28, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Breakout Workshop

6:00pm PDT

Dinners on your own

Friday August 28, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm PDT

Hospitality

8:30pm PDT

Unity Bienvenida: Noche Norteña, Live Music By Dinastia Imparable

Friday August 28, 2026 8:30pm - 11:30pm PDT

Market Street Room at Marriott

Kick off Unity Conference with an unforgettable Noche Norteña! Join us for an evening of great company, a Western-inspired atmosphere, and live music by Dinastía Imparable. Come connect, celebrate, and enjoy the first night of Unity together!

Friday August 28, 2026 8:30pm - 11:30pm PDT
Market Street Room at Marriott

Reception

7:00am PDT

Morning Flex Time & Breakfast on Your Own

Saturday August 29, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am PDT

Hospitality

8:00am PDT

Coffee and Exhibit Visits

Saturday August 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am PDT

Main Ballroom

Saturday August 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am PDT
Main Ballroom

Meal

9:00am PDT

Collaborative Edge: Connecting Boards, Celebrating Success, and Uplifting Communities Presented by the Santa Clara County School Boards Association (SCCSBA)

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 3

Collaborative Edge: Connecting Boards, Celebrating Success, and Uplifting CommunitiesPresented by the Santa Clara County School Boards Association (SCCSBA)The Santa Clara County School Boards Association (SCCSBA) is one of the most active and engaged county associations in California, dedicated to improving the lives and educational outcomes of children through meaningful civic participation,...
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Speakers

Bridget Watson

Trustee, Sunnyvale School District

Isabel Jubes-Flamerich

President, California Association of Latino Leaders in Education (CALLE)

John Horner

Board President, Morgan Hill USD

Bonnie Mace

Executive Director, Santa Clara County School Boards Association

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

Empowering All Students and LEAs in a Digital World: The Leadership Role of Literacy, Access, and Systems

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, access to technology alone does not ensure student success. True empowerment requires a strong foundation in literacy, intentional digital literacy instruction, and leadership systems that ensure equitable access and opportunity for all students. This session addresses a critical governance issue: how to align foundational literacy, digital...
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Speakers

Priya Darbari

Superintendent, Keppel Union School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

Lead with Purpose: Serve, Heal, Transform

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

This panel discussion explores how catalytic, adaptive, and legacy leadership can transform schools and communities. Drawing from the themes of Lead with Purpose, panelists will discuss the responsibility of educational leaders to serve a purpose greater than themselves and remain focused on the success and well-being of students.Through real-world experiences and practical insights, participants...
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Speakers

Carmen Vargas

Barclays

Deborah Bautista Zavala

Interim Executive Director, CALLE

Gloria Ramos

Board Member, Centinela Valley Union High School District

Angela Fajardo

Lennox Elementary School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

The Multilingual Advantage: From Student Success to Economic Opportunity

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

Guadlupe

At a time when bilingual education is increasingly politicized, school and district leaders play a critical role in protecting opportunities for multilingual learners and advancing policies that recognize language as an asset, not a barrier. In this interactive session, SEAL and UNITE-LA will highlight why investing in multilingual learners, dual immersion programs and biliteracy pathways—from...
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Speakers

Patty Chavez

Head Development & External Relations Officer, SEAL

AJ Lucas

Associate Director, UNITE-LA

Ulises Gonzalez Reyes

Associate Director, SEAL (Sobrato Early Academic Language)

SEAL is a nonprofit with a powerful research- and evidence-based approach to advancing the educational outcomes of multilingual learners. For more than 15 years, we've work across the state of California, partnering with preschools and elementary schools, districts, county offices... Read More →

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

9:00am PDT

United in Governance: From Policy to Impact

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT

San Carlos

Strong governance requires more than policy adoption—it requires meaningful impact. This session highlights how boards and leadership teams work in partnership with their communities to align policy, practice, and resources to improve student outcomes. Participants will explore real examples of increased graduation rates, reduced absenteeism, and strengthened family engagement, demonstrating how...
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Speakers

Jesus M. Holguin

Fiscal Analyst, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Don English

Trustee, Chaffey Joint Union High School District

Dr. Cherina Betters

Board Clerk, San Bernardino Community College District

Dr. Fermin Jaramillo

Trustee, Etiwanda School District

Dr. Scott Wyatt

Area Director, Student Services, SBCSS

Marcelino "Mars" Serna

Board Member, Fontana Unified School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Beyond the Classroom: How Community Partnerships and Student-Centered Systems Are Transforming Outcomes for Students Experiencing Homelessness

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Guadlupe

Students experiencing homelessness face barriers that extend far beyond academics. In Santa Clara County, the number of students identified under the McKinney-Vento Act has increased significantly in recent years, requiring school systems to rethink how they support student success, attendance, belonging, and stability.This session will highlight how Morgan Hill and Sunnyvale School Districts...
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Speakers

Jessie Swift

Director of Student Services, Morgan Hill USD

Dr. Carmen Garcia

Superintendent, Morgan Hill USD

John Horner

Board President, Morgan Hill USD

Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D

Superintendent, Sunnyvale School District

Paul Slayton

Director of Student Services, Sunnyvale School District

Virginia Varela-Campos

President of the Orchard School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Camino al Éxito: Building Connections, Confidence, and Successful Transitions

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

San Carlos

The transition from elementary to middle school is a pivotal moment in a student's educational journey. Camino al Éxito (Path to Success) is a cross-age mentoring program designed to support fifth-grade students by connecting them with trained high school mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Through meaningful relationships, interactive activities, and...
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Speakers

Dr. Olga Rios

Trustee, ABC Unified

Dr. Rios is an advocate for children. Currently, she is a Director for Student Services for a nearby district. Before that, she was a teacher for sixteen years and school administrator for eight years. Dr. Rios believes that her success can only be truly meaningful if she helps others... Read More →

Marlies Harris

Equity Officer, ABC Unified

With 15 years in ABCUSD, I have served as a special education teacher, reading intervention specialist, assistant principal, and equity officer, committed to advancing student achievement, inclusion, and educational equity for all.

Dr. Carol Castro

Assistant Superintendent, ABC Unified

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

FIRM, FAIR AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE LABOR RELATIONS

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

FIRM, FAIR AND FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE LABOR RELATIONS

Speakers

Ana Vigil

Board President, Riverbank Unified School District

Leanne Leonard, EdD

Chief Human Resources Officer, Riverbank USD

Dr. Constantino Aguilar

Superintendent, Riverbank Unified School District

Sal Holguin

Partner, AALRR

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

10:00am PDT

Reimagining Attendance & Parent Engagement for Student Success

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

Participants will engage with CESD leadership as we work to reduce chronic absenteeism and elevate parent engagement utilizing the Harvard University Dual Capacity Framework. Learn how CESD successfully reduced Chronic Absenteeism and is engaging parents to be active partners in education.

Speakers

Norma E. Martinez

Superintendent, Centralia Elementary School District

Ms. Norma E. Martinez has served the Centralia Elementary School District since 2010 and has been honored to lead as Superintendent since 2015. She oversees an award-winning district serving Anaheim, Buena Park, and La Palma, with schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon, California... Read More →

Mrs. Angela Hernandez

Board Vice President, Centralia Elementary School District

Angela M. Hernandez serves as Vice President of the Centralia Elementary School District Governing Board, representing Area 3. A dedicated community leader, business owner, and advocate for children and families, she brings years of experience supporting public education through Parent-Teacher... Read More →

Saturday August 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Beyond the Classroom: Why School Board Members Should Lead on Water Policy

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 2

California’s school board members are increasingly confronting issues that extend well beyond education, including safe drinking water, climate resilience, aging infrastructure, school greening, and environmental justice. These challenges directly affect student health, school operations, and community well-being, particularly in historically underserved communities.This panel will explore the...
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Speakers

Israel Fuentes

Board Vice President, Colton Joint Unified School District

Renita Armstrong

Early Childhood Special Education Specialist, LACOE

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

Counting on Success in Math? 3rd Grade Proficiency Starts In Preschool

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

This session will focus on the work of Empire Union (Stanislaus) and their efforts to build a bridge between their preschool, transitional kindergarten and kindergarten-3rd grade programs within a statewide network. Learn how Empire employed a multi-grade district team to build capacity in early mathematics across Pre-K through 3rd-grade transitions with the greatest benefits to...
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Speakers

Steven Kellner

Director of District Leadership & State Policy, California Education Partners

C.W. Smith

Superintendent, Empire Union School District

Luis Argueta

Program Manager, California Education Partners

Tiffany Davenport

Assistant Superintendent, Empire Union School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

From Board Decision to Impact: How to Choose Professional Development That Works

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Willow Glen 1

School boards approve professional development spending every year — but how do you know if it's actually working? This session breaks down the three levers of effective PD and shows why the real marker of success is teacher growth, not just completion certificates. We'll explore what separates PD that truly changes practice from PD that checks a box, and why the strongest predictor of student...
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Speakers

Erick J Herrmann

Champion for Multilingual Learners | Professional Development in Science of Reading, Writing & SEL | Instructional Coach & Literacy Specialist

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

From Learning Recession to Learning Recovery: Lessons from Districts Beating the Odds

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT

Guadlupe

Speakers

Dr. Cheryl James-Ward

Professor, San Diego State University

Dr. Sara Noguchi

Retired Superintendent, Modesto City Schools

LEAD Award Recipients

Dr. Steve Martinez

LEAD Legacy Recipient: Superintendent Emeritus, Twin Rivers Unified School District

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

11:00am PDT

BP Workshops

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 4:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 2

Saturday August 29, 2026 11:00am - 4:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

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

Main Ballroom

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...
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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

1:45pm PDT

Beyond the Classroom: How Recent Federal Policy Changes Are Impacting CalFresh, School Meals, and Family Access

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 1

Recent federal policy changes are reshaping how families access nutrition benefits and creating new challenges for schools, community organizations, and advocates working to combat food insecurity. In California, the impacts are being felt through CalFresh, the state's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which serves millions of children and families each year.This session will...
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Speakers

Andrea Cuellar

Sr. Program Manager, No Kid Hungry Campaign

Daisy Munguia

Associate Director, No Kid Hungry Campaign

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 1

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

From Resolution to Action: How School Boards Can Advance Educator Diversity

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

San Carlos

Latino school board members and governance teams are uniquely positioned to lead on one of the most urgent issues facing California schools: building and sustaining a fully prepared, diverse educator workforce that reflects and serves our students and communities. This session centers a board resolution toolkit informed by real examples from California districts, highlighting how local leaders are...
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Speakers

Dr. Renae Skarin

Senior Advisor, ELSF

Benito Aranda-Comer

Policy Analyst, Ed Trust West

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
San Carlos

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

Negotiating Authoritarianism in Higher Education: Centering the Latinx/Chicanx Student in Legislation and Advocacy

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Guadlupe

The California Faculty Association is the nation's largest faculty union. This workshop addresses legislative challenges facing CSU faculty and students. Through a racial-justice lens, the session highlights top legislative priorities for higher-education faculty, students, and staff. We will examine the potential impact of selected proposed California legislation on the educational success of...
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Speakers

Dr. Theresa Montano

Trustee, Los Angeles COE

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Guadlupe

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

Things to Know About AB 218 Sexual Abuse Cases

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 2

Learn about the evolution and present status of the law permitting initiation of sexual abuse cases for conduct occuring up to decades ago. Practitioners will discuss what District’s can do when such claims are filed against them and the practical issues, including determining coverage and whether resolution versus defending through trial should be considered.

Speakers

Marlon Wadlington

Partner, AALRR

Scott Danforth

Partner, AALRR

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 2

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

Walking in Their Shoes: A Student-Centered Approach to Engagement Through Multilingual Learner Shadowing

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT

Willow Glen 3

Student engagement is a key driver of academic success, yet schools often lack opportunities to understand how students experience learning throughout the day. This session introduces the nationally recognized, evidence-based Multilingual Learner Shadowing Protocol, a powerful process that helps educators and leaders view school through the eyes of students.Participants will learn how shadowing...
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Speakers

Rubi Flores

Director of Learning, Engagement, Advocacy, and Development, California Association for Bilingual Education

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:30pm PDT
Willow Glen 3

Breakout Workshop

1:45pm PDT

Healing and Wellness Drum Circle

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Speakers

Maggie Steele

Founder, 7 th Generation Warriors for Peace

Saturday August 29, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Breakout Workshop

2:45pm PDT

Coffee, Sweets and Exhibit Visits

Saturday August 29, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Saturday August 29, 2026 2:45pm - 3:15pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Meal

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...
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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

General Session

4:45pm PDT

Sound Reset: a calming sound experience to relax, recharge, and reset

Saturday August 29, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT

Almaden Room (third floor)

Speakers

Nora Maldonado

Founder, Sound Reset

Saturday August 29, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT
Almaden Room (third floor)

Breakout Workshop

6:00pm PDT

Dinners on your own

Saturday August 29, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm PDT

8:30pm PDT

Unity Presidents Reception: Noche Tropical with Live Music By Sonora San Jose

Saturday August 29, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT

Main Ballroom

Join us for a special evening celebrating our school board presidents and education leaders. Enjoy great conversation, connections, and live cumbia y salsa by Sonora San José in a festive tropical-inspired setting. An evening to recognize leadership, build relationships, and celebrate our Unity community!

Saturday August 29, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT
Main Ballroom

Reception

9:00am PDT

Unity Latino Breakfast, CALLE Vision & Closing General Session

Sunday August 30, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am PDT

Main Ballroom

Start your final day of Unity with a special Latino-inspired breakfast buffet celebrating the flavors and traditions of our community. Enjoy breakfast, connect with fellow leaders, and join CALLE leadership as we share our vision for 2027 and beyond. This closing general session will bring our Unity experience full circle with meaningful conversation, inspiration, and an opportunity...
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Sunday August 30, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am PDT
Main Ballroom

Meal