2024 ACSA Leadership Summit: Full Schedule

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9:45am PST

#LEARINGTHROUGHPLAY Building Administrator Capacity in the UTK Space

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

This is a capacity-building presentation for any administrator who oversees UTK on their campus. Participants will walk away with tangibles around play-based learning, the importance of the learning environment, and early learning foundations as a curriculum, instruction, and assessment in a play-based environment. Participants also learn what to look for in a high-quality UTK classroom to confidently observe and evaluate certificated staff in the UTK space.

Speakers

Kelly Fountain

Director of Early Learning, Lancaster School Distirct

Kelly Fountain has been an educator in the public school system for more than 20 years. She currently serves as the Director of Early Learning for the Lancaster School District where she oversees the large California State Preschool Program in addition to her role in designing, implementing... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Indigo 204A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session, Early Childhood Education

9:45am PST

Artificial Intelligence - Practical Uses and Organizational Guidance

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

AI tools are everywhere! Two years after the release of ChatGPT, LEAs are still working to define a clear path forward. Join us to learn about the latest features of ChatGPT and Microsoft CoPilot, and how organizations can implement the use of these tools using policy and processes.

Speakers

Antonio Romayor Jr.

Chief Operations Officer, Imperial County Office of Education

When not spending time with family and friends, Antonio Romayor Jr., is employed as the Chief Operations Officer (COO) at the Imperial County Office of Education. Antonio has over 25 years of experience working in Information Technology (IT) and leadership roles, most of those years... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session, Classified Educational Leaders

9:45am PST

CALPRO Resources and Leadership Institute Recognition

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Speakers

Cherise G. Moore

Principal TA Consultant, CALPRO/AIR

Cherise G. Moore, Ph.D., is a principal TA consultant in the Human Services Division at American Institutes for Research (AIR). Her primary responsibilities include a focus on equity, access, leadership and continuous improvement efforts in adult learning and career pathways. Dr... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session, Adult Education

9:45am PST

Elementary Leaders Discussion Panel “Real Talk”

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Salon E

Join the Council of Elementary Education Leaders for a dynamic panel discussion featuring experts from across the state as they address critical topics in elementary education. The discussion will focus on key issues such as enhancing communication systems, tackling chronic absenteeism, managing the rise in referrals for 504 plans and IEPs, integrating AI into leadership, and addressing the challenges in the personnel pipeline.

Speakers

John Schilling

Principal/Superintendent, Southside Elementary

Doctoral Fellow SJSUDissertation Topic: Implementation of MTSS in Small/Rural schools

Melissa Roy-Wood

Principal, San Diego USD

Buck Roggeman

Chief Human Resource Officer, Pacific Grove Unified School

Danielle Saldavia

Principal, Willow Elementary School District

Dr. Myra Lozano

Director of School Services, ABC Unified School District

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Salon E

Concurrent Session, Elementary Education Council

9:45am PST

Empowering Student Voice (NASSP resources)

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Salon F

Learn how Together, we can instill a sense of responsibility and agency in students and prepare them to be informed and empowered contributors to our communities and beyond.
This session will address ways to elevate Student Voice in your School Community and Beyond as resources are shared from NASSP and the National Partnership for Student Success.

Speakers

Derrick Lawson

Indio High School Principal and NASSP Board Member, Indio High School and NASSP Board Member

Derrick Lawson is currently serving in his 9th year as Principal of his Alma Mater – Indio High School in Desert Sands USD and 31st year as a K -12 principal at all three levels. Aside from being a K-12 student in the district, he returned his third year of teaching to the district... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Salon F

Concurrent Session, Secondary Education Council

9:45am PST

Engaging Gen Z Students: From Apathy to Engagement in a Distracted World

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

Recent research shows the top challenges cited by teachers in K12 are the lack of motivation and apathy among students and managing their own burnout. In a world where instant gratification rules and lagging academic skills from the pandemic are fueling student and staff burnout, what can be done? This session provides neuroscience-backed, practical strategies from school psychologist Dr. Rebecca Branstetter to boost student engagement so you will walk away with a playbook for your district that can be folded into your already existing professional development schedules!

Speakers

Dr. Rebecca Branstetter

School Psychologist & Founder, Thriving Students Collective

Rebecca Branstetter, Ph.D., is a school psychologist, international speaker, and author on a mission to help children thrive by supporting educators, mental health providers, and families. She is the founder of The Thriving Students Collective and Thrive Hive TV™ Network, online... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session

9:45am PST

Equity Council Session

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Salon AB

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Salon AB

Concurrent Session, Equity Council

9:45am PST

GR Session- TBD 1

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session, GR

9:45am PST

Guidance on Referral and Placement into Alternative School Settings: Setting up students for success.

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session, Education Options

9:45am PST

Latino Leadership: Understanding Our Tendencies

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

This workshop, "Latino Leadership: Understanding Our Tendencies," is a dynamic and insightful exploration of the key characteristics that shape Latino leadership in the field of education. Tailored for educators, administrators, and anyone interested in fostering inclusive and culturally competent leadership practices, this session delves into the unique traits that influence leadership styles within the Latino community.

Speakers

Juan Santos

President Elect, CALSA

Dr. Juan Manuel Santos proudly holds the position of President Elect for the prestigious California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA), an organization that supports administrators throughout the State of California. Prior to his election as President... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

9:45am PST

Maximizing Student Mental Health Impact: Integrating Wellness Coaches into Multi-Tiered Support Systems

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Sapphire 410AB (4th floor)

In today’s educational landscape, student mental health and wellness have become critical components of a student's overall educational support. Ensuring that students are mentally and emotionally well is not only vital for their immediate success but also for their future role as effective and successful members of society. It is the responsibility of school districts to provide robust mental health support to foster an environment where students can thrive.

As the focus on increasing access to mental health supports intensifies, integrating wellness coaches into Multi-Tiered Support Systems (MTSS) emerges as a transformative strategy. This approach aims to enhance and streamline mental health support, making it more accessible and impactful for students. This presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of how to effectively plan, implement, and manage this integration to maximize its positive impact on student mental health.

Attendees will leave this presentation equipped with a practical roadmap for integrating wellness coaches into multi-tiered support systems, from initial planning through to evaluation. By implementing these strategies, schools can enhance their support for student mental health, ultimately leading to a more supportive and effective educational environment.

Speakers

Michael Lombardo

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Sapphire 410AB (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

9:45am PST

My Retirement Benefits

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

My Retirement Decisions: Prepare for retirement you want by getting the information you need. Learn how to calculate your retirement benefit and how to choose your retirement date. Also discover more about beneficiary options, service retirement forms, your Defined Benefit Supplement Account and working after retirement parameters.

Speakers

CalSTRS Member Service Center Representative

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

Concurrent Session, Retirement Council

9:45am PST

Small School District Session - Supercharged! Extending Collaborative Networks for Bold Leadership

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST

Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

In the demanding field of educational leadership, having a robust support network is crucial not only within the professional environment but also outside the workplace. This session explores how forming meaningful connections beyond the confines of work can significantly enhance leadership effectiveness and personal well-being. We will delve into the ways these external relationships provide a sanctuary for leaders, offering emotional support, fresh perspectives, and a much-needed balance to the intense demands of educational administration. By fostering safe and strategic friendships outside of work, leaders can cultivate resilience, maintain their passion for education, and ultimately improve their professional performance.

Moreover, this session highlights the symbiotic nature of support networks that extend beyond professional circles. Participants will learn how engaging with diverse groups can broaden their horizons and introduce innovative ideas into their leadership practices. These external networks serve as vital reservoirs of encouragement and inspiration, helping leaders navigate challenges with greater confidence and creativity. Join us to discover the transformative power of these connections and how they can lead to more effective and sustainable educational leadership.

List 3 Key Audience Takeaways:

Enhanced Leadership Resilience: Attendees will understand how building support networks outside of work can bolster their emotional and mental resilience, helping them better manage the stresses and demands of educational leadership.
Broadened Perspectives and Innovation: Participants will gain insights into how engaging with diverse external groups can introduce fresh ideas and innovative solutions that can be applied to their leadership practices.
Work-Life Balance and Well-being: The session will highlight strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance through meaningful friendships and activities outside of the workplace, ultimately leading to improved well-being and professional performance.

Speakers

Donya Ball

Superintendent, Keynote Speaker & Author, The Academies Charter Management Organization

Dr. Donya Ball is a transformative superintendent in California, a passionate author, and an inspiring national keynote speaker. She excels in leading her staff to inspire and motivate students to pursue their passions, preparing them for life beyond the classroom. Dr. Ball also is... Read More →

Melanie Matta

Superintendent/Principal, Hope Elementary School District

Melanie Matta is a small school Superintendent/Principal whose commitment to educational equity is unwavering. For over 20 years, she has been a tireless advocate for underserved communities, working to bridge the achievement gap and create a more inclusive and equitable educational... Read More →

Lauren Mawson

Principal, Del Rio Elementary, RUESD

Lauren Mawson is the principal of Del Rio Elementary in the Rosedale School District in Bakersfield, where she leads with passion and dedication since 2022. She has held many roles in her 18 years as an educator from classroom teacher, coach, curriculum leader, and now site leader... Read More →

Staci Soares

Principal, Blue Oak Academy

I have spent nearly 20 years in education, the majority serving the charter school community. I loved my time spent in the classroom, however, have found my true passion in administration, currently serving as a TK-8 principal of a charter school.

Shelah Feldstein

Thursday November 14, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am PST
Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

Concurrent Session, Small School District

2:00pm PST

Best Practices for Communicating District Information to Various Partners

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

Learn tips and best practices that set the stage for addressing difficult topic with various educational partners.

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session, Classified Educational Leaders

about Attended California State University of Long Beach and I have been in the field of Education for 24 years with 19 years of experience working in the Superintendent's Office with multiple Superintendents, Boards, Cabinet Members.

2:00pm PST

Boosting staff morale, connectivity and resilience in times of crisis and change

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Salon AB

What if your staff could joyfully engage in habits that energize them, connect them to their purpose, and strengthen their resilience while deepening their connections with one another? This is necessary both in times of crisis and in the continuously changing environment of education. In only 2 to 5 minutes per day, staff members can build their resilience and the resulting effect impacts students, parents, and the greater community. The Orcutt Union School District will share their journey toward creating a connected culture rooted in personal and organizational well being which included professional development, staff meeting activities, and even a gamified challenge between schools and departments. In our session you will learn about the science behind this approach and engage in some of the Positive Psychology skills and activities that lead to personal and organizational development. This workshop will be very interactive, so get ready to learn actively and have some fun!

Speakers

Holly Edds

Superintendent, Orcutt Union SD

I currently serve as the Superintendent of the Orcutt Union School District, where I have worked as a school site and district level administrator since 2004. My previous roles include Elementary School Principal and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. I began my career... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Salon AB

Concurrent Session, Subtype1

2:00pm PST

Building and Diversifying the Chief Business Official Position

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Have you ever thought about serving your community as a chief business official for a school district or county office of education? While many educators enter central office leader positions through educational and student services or human resources, the business services entry point is rarely pursued. Come and explore the various pathways to central office business leadership position. Do you know how superintendents and school business officials can/should work in partnership to realize the district’s vision? Since chief business officials work with a team to ensure resources are allocated to benefit students, they are in an ideal position to contribute to equity efforts in schools and districts.

Come and learn from some leading state-wide organizations, CAAASA, CASBO, SSC and FCMAT, about the need to recruit and support a diverse group of educators in the CBO position.

Speakers

Tatia Davenport

Chief Executive Officer, California Association of School Business Officials

Dr. Daryl Camp

Superintendent, 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 November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Care for Yourself, Care for Others

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

This session explores the notions of self care, underpinned by Nell Noddings' four components of care: modeling, dialogue, practice, and confirmation. While we explore the four components we will develop our "Continuum of Self Care" and reflect on how we can apply our continuums of self care to our work in schools, with colleagues, and as administrators.

Speakers

Monica Munoz

Principal, El Monte City School District

Dr. Monica Munoz has worked in public service for 30 years, the last 20 of which have been in K-8 education. Serving as an intervention teacher for 6 years, and as a principal for the last 8 years she has formed unique perspectives which inform her work with underserved students... Read More →

Izabella Munoz

School Counselor, El Monte City School District

I am a second year school counselor at EMCSD’s Frank Wright School, serving grades K-8. As a school counselor and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, # 14757, I am extremely passionate about mental health and wellness, focusing much of my care on Person-Centered an Trauma... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Coaching Strategies to Create and Enhance a Culture of Equity and Inclusion

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

When leaders take a coaching approach, schools and districts can create a culture of equity and inclusion for all students. The presenters, who have trained all leadership coaches in ACSA’s Clear Administrative Credential Program, will highlight the listening and appreciative inquiry phases of the Evocative Coaching model through an interactive experience. Participants will not only learn, but also practice essential coaching behaviors that are the precursors of meaningful change.

Speakers

Jeanie Cash

Lead Learner Associates, ACSA/Lead Learner Associates

Jeanie Cash retired as the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District in Southern California after 33 years in education. She taught elementary and middle school and served as a principal for 14 years. For 13 years, Jeanie... Read More →

George Manthey

Co-founder, Lead Learner Associates

George Manthey retired as the Assistant Executive Director, Educational Services, of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) after 40 years in education. He taught elementary school both as a regular classroom teacher and taught both elementary and middle school... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session, Subtype 2

2:00pm PST

Ed Branding: How to Build Leadership with Social Influence

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

This session will focus on helping educational leaders effectively hone in on branding their self, site & organization utilizing the power of values driven leadership, social media and social influence. Participants will define their brand, define their personal board, calibrate, and discover new and fun ways to grow your brand and PLN to help take your leadership journey to the next level. They will also learn some easy and useful tips/tricks to use social media to tell their story and amplify their brand as well as the brand of their site/organization. Empowering yourself nurtures your health, heart and mind.

Now more than ever, in a time of attacks on public education, declining enrollment and culture wars, we must own the narrative and become the media. This session serves to empower classified employees, teachers, administrators, superintendents, board members, colleges/universities, families and community partners to embrace branding for the power of connection it has. The session will demystify branding, public relations and promotions. It will empower participants with the ability to amplify their stories for the benefit of themselves, their sites and their organizations. Telling our stories and the stories of our scholars, staff and community is healing, encourages the heart and provokes our minds.

Speakers

Renae Bryant

Anaheim Union HSD, Director, Educational Service; Ed Branding Podcaster & Author, Anaheim Union High School District

Dr. Renae Bryant is a leader, author, and speaker who serves as the Director of Plurilingual Services at Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD) in Anaheim, California where she works collaboratively with scholars, staff, families and community to build systems and processes to... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Improving Attendance within an MTSS Context

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Salon F

Chronic absenteeism is a major issue, both nationally and in California specifically. In California, chronic absenteeism rates, or the percentage of students missing 10% of school days, was at 25% (a decade ago it was 12%). We also know that student attendance rose as the top priority and challenge reported by districts, in PowerSchool’s most recent annual Education Focus Report, in which over 1600 educators were surveyed.

This is not surprising. Student attendance is often the first and clearest indicator of engagement and readiness to learn. Regular attendance is essential for students to access the full spectrum of educational opportunities and interventions available within a school's MTSS. In California, lack of student attendance also has major financial consequences for school districts.

Fortunately, many districts are seeing gains in attendance by following key fundamentals that are applicable to every district’s MTSS efforts.

In this presentation, we will talk about:

*How the objective of increasing attendance can be effectively incorporated into your MTSS framework, as opposed to being treated as a separate initiative.

*Research on the barriers that prevent students from attending school regularly and how MTSS and strong data driven practices and protocols can be used to identify and address barriers.

*Practices for addressing attendance across the continuum of support, starting first with practices that can be implemented universally.

*2023 Research from John Hopkins University on how Attendance Intervention technology can be used to address chronic absenteeism.

*Lastly, we will discuss the criticality of family engagement as the cornerstone of effective MTSS implementation Regular communication with families about their children's progress and the support available can help alleviate some of the external barriers to attendance.

In closing, while improving attendance is a critical first step in ensuring students can access the instruction and support, they need, a well-implemented MTSS creates an environment that encourages regular attendance. Schools that recognize and leverage this interplay are better equipped to create sustainable improvements in both areas, creating an environment where students are present, engaged, and supported in all aspects of their education.  

Speakers

Jeff Pelzel

Director of Executive Leadership Engagement, PowerSchool

Jeff Pelzel is the Director of Executive Leadership Engagement at PowerSchool where he serves as a bridge between the sales team and school district leaders. Jeffs pent 28 years working in public education in Washington State (20 years) and California (8 years). He began his career... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Salon F

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Navigating Administrator Anxiety

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Indigo 204A (2nd floor)

Are the "Sunday Scaries" a regular part of your weekend plans? Do you avoid certain tasks or situations because of how you feel in those moments? These are all normal adaptations and habits we develop as school administrators in response to the exceptionally high level of daily stressors we experience. Just as they can be wired into your brain, they can be re-wired to be more manageable and less debilitating. A nationally representative survey conducted earlier this year by the RAND Corporation found that 85 percent of principals are experiencing job-related stress, 48 percent of principals are dealing with burnout, while 28 percent report symptoms of depression. Based on the research done by Dr. Judson Brewer and communicated in his book, "Unwinding Anxiety", Principal, Jeff Friedenberg, will provide an overview of the biological underpinnings of anxiety, and three concrete steps for participants to begin the work of navigating their own anxiety so that we can be our best selves for the students who need us now more than ever.

Speakers

Jeff Friedenberg

Jeff Friedenberg is an experienced elementary school principal in San Diego County. His experience and successful leadership working with students and families in historically marginalized populations is grounded in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed and restorative practices... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Indigo 204A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

On Track to College with Success Coaches: The Azusa Unified School District’s Positive Support Progr

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Learn how Azusa Unified School District implemented a “Success Coach” model to support the hearts and minds of 9th and 10th-grade students to increase students’ college eligibility. With a focus on English Language Arts, the district’s certificated Success Coaches work directly with students to address social-emotional and academic needs to increase engagement in learning and completion of class assignments. Success coaches collaborate with classroom teachers to support awareness of student needs and to share effective approaches. Additionally, teachers selected an English Learner “Focus Student” to monitor and share effective instructional strategies with colleagues. As a district LCAP goal, the Success Coach model positively impacted students’ learning behaviors, academic performance, engagement, attendance, organizational skills, learning ability, and performance and pride in themselves. Data also show the Success Coach model facilitated educator collaboration focused on student success practices.

Speakers

Linda Kaminski

ACSA Past President, Director of Research and Policy, Center for Equity for English Learners, Loyola Marymount University

Dr. Linda Kaminski served as president of ACSA in 2019-20. Her ACSA involvement includes Vice-President of Legislative Action, and chair of the Legislative Policy Committee and the Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability Council. She served in multiple districts as a bilingual... Read More →

Dayna Mitchell

Educational Support Specialist, CEEL, Loyola Marymount University

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Preventing and overcoming burnout: Leveraging AI tools for administrative success

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

As educational leaders we are constantly balancing administrative tasks, supporting teachers, connecting with students and prioritizing our own well-being. Join me for an innovative workshop designed to help school level administrators prevent and overcome burnout by harnessing the power of AI tools. In today’s fast-paced educational environment, balancing administrative duties with providing exceptional support to those we serve can be overwhelming. This workshop offers practical solutions to streamline your workload, enhance teacher instructional support, and ultimately create a more sustainable and thriving school environment.

Speakers

Marcela Valadez

Assistant Principal, Marshall Fundamental (6-12), Pasadena Unified School District

Marcela D. Valadez is an innovative and collaborative leader dedicated to lifelong learning as a means of effectively supporting the communities she serves. She has served teachers, students, and families for almost 20 years as a classroom teacher, interventionist, instructional coach... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Shhh... Don't Say the 'D' Word! Strategies for Boosting Graduation Rates and Reducing Absenteeism

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Join us as we share the inspiring journey of a low-socioeconomic high school in Virginia Beach. Faced with a lack of systems and procedures, they quickly set to work, focusing on improving the school's "on-time graduation rate" (OTG). Starting with an OTG of 89.43%, they implemented data-driven systems and closely collaborated with school counselors to track student performance. By the end of the first year, their efforts resulted in an impressive 95.16% OTG rate.

Despite this success, they recognized a significant challenge: a chronic absenteeism rate of 27.80%. To address this, they adopted the Coordination of Services Team (COST) model, inspired by the Alameda County Health Care Services. The COST team, comprising various stakeholders, met weekly to discuss roughly 200 students at risk of not graduating. Through these meetings, they identified tier 2 and 3 supports and targeted interventions, focusing on improving attendance.

By the end of the second year, their comprehensive approach led to a 94.17% OTG rate and a slight decrease in chronic absenteeism. In their third year, they intensified their interventions, achieving a remarkable reduction in chronic absenteeism to 13.64% and projecting an OTG rate of 98.15%.

This session will provide an in-depth look at their strategies, interventions, and the sustainable systems they built. Attendees will leave with practical insights on implementing similar tracking systems, understanding the power of the COST model, and exploring a variety of interventions to improve graduation rates and reduce absenteeism in their own schools.

Speakers

Sally Jarvis-Lubbe

Assistant Principal, Elsinore High School

Dr. Sally Jarvis-Lubbe brings nearly 15 years of experience as an educator across diverse districts in three states. Currently serving as an Assistant Principal at Elsinore High School and an adjunct professor at Cal State Fullerton, Dr. Jarvis-Lubbe is dedicated to advancing educational... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

Unlocking SBAC Math Success: A Strategic Approach for California Administrators

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Salon E

You have your data—now what? Is your team ready to propel your students toward Math SBAC success with ease? This session is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to lead your school or district to victory.

Join the ranks of California districts leading the way in Math achievement, including those with the highest met/exceeded performance and districts experiencing the most significant growth in student achievement year after year.

In this dynamic session, we'll explore actionable strategies that deliver results in as little as ten minutes a day. Say goodbye to cumbersome preparation and hello to streamlined success!

Led by seasoned educators with a proven track record of helping students excel in math, this session promises to empower you with the knowledge, confidence and a plan to achieve outstanding results.

Speakers

Erin Walker

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Salon E

Concurrent Session

2:00pm PST

“Reimagining Student Success: Cultivating Equity, Mindfulness and Well-being in Leaders"

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST

Sapphire 410AB (4th floor)

This session provides educational leaders and partners with a safe space to engage in dialogue through the exploration of concepts that support the development of an authentic commitment to equity leadership for all students and families.
Ultimately, educational leaders will reflect on what it means to redefine student success with an equity, health, and mindfulness lens while moving from theory to practice through utilizing numerous tools for practical application and strategic facilitation of equity work. Content will center around mindsets and beliefs while creating a parallel between adaptive and technical work in the school system to interrupt inequitable practices and close equity gaps.

The session will include discussions of relevant personal and professional experiences, as well as practical strategies to consider in the application of concepts shared. Participants will leave feeling inspired, motivated, and connected to new insights and a network of colleagues to enrich their equity leadership journey, fostering healthier, more mindful, and equitable learning environments.

Speakers

Nicole Anderson

Nicole Anderson and Associates LLC

Nicole Anderson, CEO/Founder of Nicole Anderson and Associates Consulting, LLC, brings nearly 25 years of experience in education. She began her journey at Jesse M. Bethel High School in Vallejo, Ca. (the namesake of her grandfather). In her roles as a teacher, coach, and principal... Read More →

Sonjhia Lowery

CEO, Just SCORE Inc

With over 29 years in education, Sonjhia Lowery, from teacher to Superintendent, is a dedicated leader and advocate for educational equity. Ms. Lowery is focused on creating shared vision to grow and cultivate leaders to perform at a level of excellence necessary to continuously improve... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Sapphire 410AB (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Academic Intervention Models that Work: An Examination of Elementary and Secondary Intervention Models to Support Equitable Learning

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Integrating Interventions across K-12: Hear from two leading Superintendents about how they navigate the challenges, what considerations need to be thought through, and how cultural competency is at the center for all their students.

Speakers

Holly Edds

Superintendent, Orcutt Union SD

Dr. Ron Carruth

Retired Superintendent

Dr. Ron Carruth served as Superintendent of the Whittier City School District for 10 years and 6 years as Superintendent in the El Dorado Union High School District. Ron retired in 2024 and currently serves as the Executive Director of the California High School Coalition.He served... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Amplify Your Voice through Legislative Advocacy

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

School and district leaders have a powerful voice. In this workshop, ACSA’s Vice President for Legislative Action (VPLA) and the Region 18 VPLA will share ways they’ve learned to develop, maintain and leverage local relationships with state legislators and federal representatives. You’ll leave this workshop with the tools needed to effectively participate in the legislative and political process on behalf of your school, your district, and ACSA. Whether you’re new to legislative advocacy or you’ve been doing it for years, join us to learn ways to amplify your voice on behalf of California's students.

Speakers

Dr. Ben Churchill

Superintendent, Carlsbad Unified School District, Carlsbad Unified School District

Dr. Ben Churchill began serving as superintendent of the Carlsbad Unified School District in 2016. He was recently appointed by the Board of Education as the new superintendent in the Poway Unified School District, and will start in the new role on December 2.Dr. Churchill previously... Read More →

Dr. Gina Potter

Superintendent, San Ysidro School District

Gina Potter is the Superintendent of San Ysidro Elementary School District.

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Sapphire 411 (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Artificial Intelligence and the Principalship

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Salon F

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Salon F

Concurrent Session, Secondary Education Council

3:15pm PST

C.A.R.E: Caring–Accessible–Resources–Emotional Well Being Program

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

The CSBA Golden Bell Award Caring–Accessible–Resources–Emotional Well Being Program is a comprehensive/data driven support program that serves all district students and seeks to authentically connect students with highly trained staff: person-to-person and heart-to-heart. Each student brings their own story; some with a smile and eagerness to learn - others hungry and carrying heart breaking trauma. Knowing these challenges, it is imperative that we connect to meet their academic growth and social-emotional wellness.

Speakers

Jim Coombs

Lowell Joint School District, Superintendent of Schools, Lowell Joint ESD

Jim Coombs serves as the Superintendent of Schools for the Lowell Joint School District (LJSD), which is 100% committed to leveraging the powerful and profound impact of the arts in the lives of students. Mr. Coombs has served in public education for the past 39 years starting as... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Indigo 204B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Calm & Kind Family: Equipping Families with Tools for Emotional Literacy

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Salon E

Both educators and parents are concerned about children’s mental and emotional well-being. Schools and educators are already focused on caring for students’ well-being, but how can we bridge the gap between home and school? How do we create meaningful partnerships with families to meet their students' pressing social-emotional needs? This workshop incorporates key concepts from the latest research on compassion, resilience, mental health, and brain-based parenting strategies. It’s research-based but fun, simple, and interactive! We will highlight content from Calm and Kind Family, a Parent workshop series designed to equip families with: Tools for increasing emotional regulation Practices for building positive mental health practices in the home, including self-compassion and self-care A framework to find the "why" behind & address misbehavior Calming Strategies for every age and stage

Speakers

Daniel Bunker

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Salon E

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Creating Quality Expanded Learning Programs that Promote Student Success in School and Beyond

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Parents work 2,000 hours a year; our students are in school for only 1,000 of those hours, leaving out-of-school time half of K-12 education! Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) is a historic, unprecedented opportunity to close the glaring opportunity gap, advance learning, and synergize communities in the out-of-school time.

It is an exciting time for districts to take risks to innovate, experiment, and re-imagine expanded learning. Nevertheless, supporting 9 hour days and 30 intersession days, as required by ELO-P, is a tremendous undertaking, almost like "building a school outside school".

In this session, leaders from several school districts, such as Mt. Diablo USD, Rowland USD, and Simi Valley USD, will join hands to showcase their success stories and innovation journey in how they revamped their expanded learning programs in the past three years. They will share the strategies and best practices for operating a successful ELO-P and maximizing student outcomes, in their respective scenarios.

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Aqua 300 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Emotionally Healthy School Leadership

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

This session will explore the crucial topic of health and well-being for school administrators, addressing their unique challenges and offering practical strategies for improvement. We will delve into the physical and mental health aspects, discussing common issues such as stress and burnout, and providing actionable solutions to enhance overall wellbeing. The session will also emphasize the importance of work-life balance and offer tools and resources to create a supportive and healthy work environment. Through engaging discussions and interactive elements, participants will gain valuable insights and practical tips to foster a culture of health and well-being within their schools.

Speakers

Scott Borba

Superintendent/Principal, Le Grand Union Elementary School District & Lead Consultant at S. Borba Consulting

Scott Borba proudly and passionately serves the community of Le Grand, CA as the Superintendent/Principal of Le Grand Union Elementary School District. Scott has been recognized as the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) 2021 Superintendent/Principal of the Year... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Indigo 202B (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Equity Council Session

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Salon AB

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Salon AB

Concurrent Session, Equity Council

3:15pm PST

Harness the Power of Communication When the Heat is On

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Indigo 204A (2nd floor)

Keep your cool when the heat is on! So much of our job success depends on the strength of our communication. Join us for some immediately applicable skills and techniques that will live in your back pocket for the various communication opportunities coming your way! Help others catch your calm, learn communication strategies to de-escalate and diffuse potentially explosive situations. Additionally, we will explore practical and immediately applicable strategies to build and repair connection in these increasingly divisive times. We will learn specific techniques to increase our skill set and help navigate tricky conversations. Walk away from this session with powerful tools you need to build a culture of connection in your district where students and educators thrive.

Speakers

Erika Bare

Superintendent & Author

Erika has been a proud educator for over twenty years, serving in a variety of roles. She currently serves as the Superintendent of the South Umpqua School District. Erika grew up in Portland, OR, graduating from the University of Oregon with a Master’s in Education in 2001. She... Read More →

Tiffany Burns

Author & Principal, Connecting Through Conversation

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Indigo 204A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Keys to Developing Effective Communications & Community Outreach

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Healthy relationships are key to building strong communications through teamwork, collaboration, community engagement, and mutual success in the workplace.

But how do you go about building and nurturing those relationships to help support your organization’s communication and community engagement?

Hear from Woodland Joint Unified School District Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin and Public Information Officer (PIO) Jerry Jimenez on how they worked together during their first two years to create a strong district communication program.

Spoiler alert: Building a mutually positive and supportive relationship built on trust is the secret ingredient.

Not a superintendent or PIO? Not a problem!

This session is aimed at current or aspiring directors, administrators, associate superintendents, assistant superintendents, and superintendents.

Using real-life examples, this session will provide attendees with lessons learned on how to collaborate to develop an effective communication and community engagement program.

Speakers

Elodia Ortega-Lampkin

Superintendent, Woodland Joint Unified School District

Elodia Ortega-Lampkin is the superintendent of Woodland Joint Unified School District and has over 30 years of experience as a leader in public education. She volunteers her leadership expertise for professional groups such as the California Association of Latino Superintendents (CALSA... Read More →

Jerry Jimenez

Woodland Joint Unified School District, Public Information Officer

Jerry Jimenez is the proud public information officer for Woodland Joint Unified School District. He is a bilingual communications professional with over 20 years of experience representing public sector organizations including unions, government, and education. A former newspaper... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Indigo 202A (2nd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Navigating the Storms of Leadership: Developing Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient Leaders

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Aqua 310AB (3rd floor)

School and district leadership often faces formidable challenges, navigating through tumultuous conditions with resilience and purpose. Dr. Donya Ball, a transformative superintendent, best-selling author, and renowned keynote speaker, will explore the critical challenges every leader encounters in this demanding environment. Alongside her, Roni Habib, author, founder of EQ Schools, and an internationally recognized speaker and executive coach, will guide participants through practical exercises and strategies designed to steer leaders toward stability and success. Join us for an insightful session on becoming a more resilient, fulfilled, and purpose-driven leader.

Speakers

Donya Ball

Superintendent, Keynote Speaker & Author, The Academies Charter Management Organization

Roni Habib

Founder and lead Trainer, EQ Schools

Roni Habib is a speaker, author, and expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, more connected to their purpose, and more playful. The founder of EQ Schools, he speaks and leads workshops in organizations nationally and abroad. His dynamic keynotes... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Aqua 310AB (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

Small School District Session - Leading with Love: Elevating Hope and Wellness in our Small School Communities

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

Join Amy (Yamamoto) Callahan from the Cook Center for Human Connection in an interactive and empathetic session to seek meaning of your LEA's mission for safe and supportive schools. Explore the challenges educators, parents, and caregivers face while aligning district goals and governing board priorities while navigating AB 1767 &AB 2246, LCAP/ LCFF goals, ELO-P, and the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP). Leaders will engage and share lighthouse strategies and accessible mental health resources to foster human connection in their district communities and today's small school district community

Speakers

Amy Yamamoto Callahan

Director of Advocacy, School and Community Impact, Cook Center for Human Connection, Cook Center for Human Connection

Amy proudly serves as the school and community advocacy director for California and Hawai’i at the Cook Center for Human Connection to lead and foster the foundation’s mission to eradicate suicide by serving and assisting with mental health professional learnings and coaching... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Sapphire 400B (4th floor)

Concurrent Session, Small School District

3:15pm PST

Teach Wearable Rapid Incident Support Response technology preventing Learning Loss and Improving Teacher Morale & Retention

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

Retired education leaders and current school safety technologists, Dr. Sams and Dr. Hausner, will join two current California district leaders to share and discuss newly available school incident data insights and specific impact stories from schools that have employed revolutionary rapid incident response strategies and technology that leverages real time data from Wearable Alert Badges. Data insights on response and outcomes from over 150,000 incidents requiring support for: behavior, staff assault, student fighting, self-harm, medical emergencies, as well as drill and live lockdown situations. The panel local will share examples and data where rapid supports coupled with the unique safety accountability resulted in more de-escalation and improved outcomes enabling classrooms to reclaim lost instruction time and improve staff & student morale. The panel will also discuss how the data and accountability can shape districtwide emergency incident strategies, safety resource allocation, staff coaching and safety empowerment, district & school engagement in the community, and safety resource access equity,

Speakers

Dr. Roderick Sams

Chief Development Officer, Centegix

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-roderick-sams-ab409a24/

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Sapphire 400A (4th floor)

Concurrent Session

3:15pm PST

“Amor, Justicia, Libertad: Transforming Education via Whole Child, Racial Justice, & Wrap-Around Services”

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST

Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

Join us for an inspiring and actionable session that showcases the transformative power of whole child approaches intertwined with educational equity. This presentation will delve into the San Mateo-Foster City recipe for dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline through restorative justice, family engagement, and comprehensive community support.

We will explore:

1. Restorative Practices: The implementation of Restorative Justice Teacher on Special Assignment (RJ TOSAs) and the establishment of Peace Rooms in middle schools to create a nurturing environment for conflict resolution and personal growth.

2. Family Support and Engagement: The pivotal role of Community Services Specialists in building meaningful relationships with multilingual families, providing training on the Footsteps2Brilliance program to enhance literacy at home, and fostering shared leadership through active family participation in school site councils and community school steering committees.

3. Community School Model: Leveraging the California Community School Partnership Program to transform five Title 1 schools into community schools, enriching after-school programs with diverse activities, expanding wrap-around services, and creating shared leadership opportunities that empower historically disenfranchised BIPOC families.

Speakers

Dr. Christian Rubalcaba

Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, San Mateo-Foster City School District, San Mateo-Foster City School District

Dr. Christian J. Rubalcaba is a district administrator who began his career with Teach for America, serving as a bilingual teacher and instructional coach in the San José Unified School District, CA. Earning National Board Certification in literacy and an administrative credential... Read More →

Diego Ochoa

Superintendent, San Mateo-Foster City School District, San Mateo - Foster City School District

Superintendent Ochoa joined SMFCSD in June 2021. He has led the district in establishing a 5-year Strategic Plan involving over 70 stakeholders representing teachers, staff, administrators, labor partners, parents, and community organizations. Along with the School Board, Superintendent... Read More →

LaTisa Brooks

Board Member

A proud Bay Area native and 20+ years Foster City resident, LaTisa Brooks has lived a life of service through her work in local community organizations, including: Rotary Club of Foster City (long-time member), HIP Housing (Human Investment Project, board of directors), and several... Read More →

Thursday November 14, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm PST
Aqua 311 (3rd floor)

Concurrent Session