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Friday, March 21
 

10:00am PDT

Pre-Conference with Keynote Speaker Christian Jackson - A Hands-on AI Workshop for Educators! Facilitated by Dr. David Gomez
Friday March 21, 2025 10:00am - 4:00pm PDT
Pre-Conference attendees: Please be sure you bring a laptop to this workshop!

Join Christian Jackson, CEO of Edapt Schools, at our Pre-Conference for a hands-on AI workshop for Educators! This workshop will be facilitated by Dr. David Gomez.

Five Hours Today, Countless Hours Saved Tomorrow: A Hands-On AI Workshop for Educators
Invest five hours in this hands-on, interactive workshop to unlock tools and strategies that can save you an hour in the first week and continue to reclaim time every week moving forward. Designed for educators and administrators, this hands-on session will:
  • Show you how to automate everyday tasks using AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini.
  • Provide step-by-step guidance, from foundational concepts to advanced applications.
  • Equip you with skills that will help you consistently save hours each week.
This workshop is more than your normal PD learning opportunity—it’s a game-changer for your workload and workflow, empowering you to make back your time investment in just weeks and keep saving time long after.
Speakers
DG

David Gomez

Past President & Executive Director, CALSA
avatar for Christian Jackson

Christian Jackson

CEO, Edapt Schools
At 24, Christian Jackson has already carved out a name for himself as a sought after speaker and Gen Z activist. Graduating as Loyola Marymount’s Valedictorian, he moved directly from life in college to a risk-endearing life as a founder. Christian has since directed his full attention... Read More →
Friday March 21, 2025 10:00am - 4:00pm PDT
SLO Ballroom

2:00pm PDT

Registration and Check-in
Friday March 21, 2025 2:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Friday March 21, 2025 2:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Atrium

5:30pm PDT

Hosted Social with Exhibitors (Sponsored by Four Oaks, Elevo, Veregy)
Friday March 21, 2025 5:30pm - 6:00pm PDT


Sponsors
avatar for Elevo

Elevo

Elevo’s mission is to transform the well-being of students so they look forward to coming to school. We work hand-in-hand with schools to nurture our next generation with a full range of SEL-infused programs. Our WASC accredited curriculum is designed to promote social-emotional... Read More →
avatar for Four Oaks Wealth Strategies

Four Oaks Wealth Strategies

Four Oaks Wealth Strategies is a financial planning firm that focuses on helping administrators maximize the benefits of one of their largest assets. We offer comprehensive financial planning covering the entirety of your financial picture including: retirement, education and college... Read More →
Friday March 21, 2025 5:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
Los Osos Room South

6:00pm PDT

Hosted Dinner - Master of Ceremonies Amy Callahan - Introductory Remarks by Conference Chair Randy Bangs - Entertainment
Friday March 21, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Amy Callahan

Amy Callahan

School & Community Advocacy Director, The Cook Center for Human Connection
Amy Yamamoto Callahan is a devoted advocate for mental health and education, currently serving as the advocacy director for the Cook Center for Human Connection. With over 27 years of experience in various educational roles—including as a consultant, teacher, and administrator—Amy... Read More →
avatar for Randy Bangs

Randy Bangs

Mid-State Conference Chair, Soledad Unified School District
Superintendent, Soledad Unified School District
Friday March 21, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
SLO Ballroom

7:00pm PDT

First General Session - Keynote Speaker Christian Jackson - Session Sponsor Remarks from AALRR & Classtime
Friday March 21, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Christian Jackson

Christian Jackson

CEO, Edapt Schools
At 24, Christian Jackson has already carved out a name for himself as a sought after speaker and Gen Z activist. Graduating as Loyola Marymount’s Valedictorian, he moved directly from life in college to a risk-endearing life as a founder. Christian has since directed his full attention... Read More →
Sponsors
avatar for Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (AALRR)

Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (AALRR)

With more than 40 years of unwavering commitment to client service, AALRR is one of California’s leading education law firms. Our diverse team of attorneys brings a seasoned perspective to California’s complex legal landscape, with particular strength in the areas of education... Read More →
Friday March 21, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
SLO Ballroom
 
Saturday, March 22
 

7:30am PDT

Hosted Breakfast (Embassy Suites Guests)
Saturday March 22, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo 333 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, USA

7:30am PDT

Registration
Saturday March 22, 2025 7:30am - 3:30pm PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 7:30am - 3:30pm PDT
Atrium

8:00am PDT

Exhibitors
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Exhibitor Hallway

8:15am PDT

Addressing Bias Based Beliefs with Restorative Approaches
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
 Addressing bias-based beliefs is crucial for creating a more equitable and inclusive environment. School districts often struggle with addressing educator bias during professional development due to multiple complexities. Bakersfield City School District will share how their technique with restorative practices and the RIR (recognize, interrupt, and repair) protocol have created conditions to address educational equity. Addressing implicit bias can be achieved without calling it out in teacher training. This session will provide participants with tools to self-reflect on their practices and foster open dialogue. Creating a safe space where these conversations can take place supports communication with others using empathy and respect. Participants will learn techniques to foster a more inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Join us as we explore the effective method to recognize and identify communication breakdowns, interrupt/intervene appropriately, and repair them by co-creating safe spaces that allow everyone to connect and grow.
Speakers
LT

Liz Toruno

Coordinator, Bakersfield City Schools
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Los Osos Room North

8:15am PDT

Administrators: What does it really take to fix the reading problem in schools? (MTSS Leadership Consultant, LLC & Reading Science Academy)
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
In this session, administrators will learn how to use Structured Literacy to build capacity to improve reading outcomes through the science of reading.  Participants will gain understanding of what MTSS is, common misconceptions, and why MTSS is the actual framework for implementing the science of reading. If you’re just starting to implement MTSS, this session will help you get it right. If you’ve implemented MTSS for years, and not seen the results you hoped for, this session will illuminate priorities for change and get you back on track. Learn from the educators who have improved reading outcomes against all odds.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Stephanie Stollar

Dr. Stephanie Stollar

Consultant, Stephanie Stollar Consulting, LLC
I am a part-time assistant professor in the Reading Science program and Mount St. Joseph University and the founder of an online membership community called the Reading Science Academy. I'm interested in assessment, evidence-based instruction, and systems change via using MTSS as... Read More →
avatar for Sharon Dunn

Sharon Dunn

Consultant, Sharon Dunn MTSS Leadership Consultant, LLC
I am an experienced MTSS leadership consultant with a strong background in instructional leadership, specializing in implementing science-based reading research to enhance reading outcomes in educational settings. My expertise was honed during my successful tenure as principal of... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Edna Room West

8:15am PDT

Better Together: Parent and Family Engagement Strategies and More!
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Research shows that parent/family engagement in schools is closely linked to better student behavior, higher academic achievement, and enhanced social skills. This session will dive into the why, how, what, and revisit of parent/family engagement strategies in our current technological- social media world.  Participants will leave feeling inspired and ready to connect to their parents, community, and families with stronger efficacy, and fun!
Speakers
avatar for Jen Gaviola

Jen Gaviola

Superintendent, Cayucos Elementary School District
Jen Gaviola is the current Superintendent of the Cayucos Elementary School District, a position she has held since 2022. Her educational journey began in the heart of the Central Valley, Madera, where she served as a K-12 special educator, a high school administrator, and Director... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
SLO Room North

8:15am PDT

Happier & Healthier Leaders Lead Better: Surviving & Thriving through the Storms of Leadership
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Educational leadership is an itinerary consumed by the wildest of storms. The leaders that are equipped with the navigation skills to weather the most significant challenges are the leaders that will become happier, more resilient, and more connected to their purpose. Superintendent and best selling author, Dr. Donya Ball will present the most critical storms that every leader will encounter and Roni Habib, founder of EQ schools and internationally recognized speaker and executive coach will facilitate the exercises and approaches required to forge forward to calm waters.
Speakers
avatar for Roni Habib

Roni Habib

EQ Schools
Let’s ConnectFeel free to connect with me on LinkedIn: Let’s Connect. I’d love to hear your thoughts and insights!https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronihabib/Let’s Chat About Professional DevelopmentInterested in exploring professional development opportunities for your organization... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Donya Ball

Dr. Donya Ball

Keynote Speaker, Superintendent & Author, Dr. Ball LLC
Dr. Donya Ball is a renowned international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and leadership expert celebrated for her ability to uncover relatable leadership challenges across diverse sectors. She empowers organizations to achieve transformation through her no-nonsense, practical... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
SLO Room South

8:15am PDT

Happy Schools, Thriving Students: The Power of Positive Culture
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Discover how fostering a happy, positive school culture drives student success and well-being. Student achievement under the direction of Mr. and Dr. Herrera has been recognized by national newspapers including the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and Tech and Learning Magazine. They attribute much of this success to their focus on happy schools. This session explores actionable strategies to build trust, cultivate inclusivity, and inspire joy in learning. Learn how strong relationships among students, staff, and families translate into academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and community pride. Join us to reimagine schools as hubs of happiness where every stakeholder thrives.
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Los Osos Room South

8:15am PDT

Leading Small, Thinking Big: Strategies for Small School Districts to Thrive in Challenging Times
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
TBA
Small school districts face unique challenges, from budget constraints to staffing shortages, yet they also have the flexibility to innovate and lead with impact. This session will explore key strategies for small district leaders to navigate legal, financial, and operational hurdles while leveraging their strengths to create thriving learning environments. Attendees will gain practical insights on advocacy, collaboration, and resource optimization to ensure long-term success for their schools and communities.
Speakers
avatar for Yuri Calderon

Yuri Calderon

Executive Director, Small School Districts Association, Small School Districts Association
Yuri Calderon is the Executive Director of the Small School Districts' Association (SSDA), where he leads advocacy, professional development, and support initiatives for small school districts across California. With a background in law and extensive experience in education policy... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
TBA

8:15am PDT

The Art of Making an Appearance - Leveraging Limited Time
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Leaders at the site and district level are always pressed for time. Without a strategy to maintain visibility, administrators can find all of their time taken with operations and compliance. This session will give leaders practical guidelines to ensure that they maintain a presence in their educational community. Through classroom visits and attendance at school and district events, leaders can keep their finger on the pulse of their organization, gain valuable insight, and improve morale. Attend this session for practical strategies to leverage your limited time effectively.
Speakers
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am PDT
Edna Room East

9:15am PDT

Break/Visit Exhibitors
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am PDT
Exhibitor Hallway

9:30am PDT

Building a Winning Culture
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
The presentation dives into how to create an environment where trust, accountability, and collaboration thrive. It’s all about practical ways to push past mediocrity, hold each other accountable, and work together through challenges to build trust and respect. The focus isn’t on showcasing one person or one school, but on the process itself—what it takes to create a culture that lasts. It’s a straightforward, honest approach to inspire action and help administrators lead with purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Bobby Peters

Bobby Peters

Attendee, Hanford Joint Union High School District

Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Edna Room West

9:30am PDT

Effective Leadership Strategies for Administrators
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
In this session, Effective Leadership Strategies for Administrators, we will explore practical approaches for becoming an effective administrator while maintaining balance and setting healthy boundaries. Participants will learn tools to enhance communication, foster positive workplace relationships, and reduce administrative burnout. Through real-world examples and actionable takeaways, we’ll discuss how leaders can prioritize self-care, build resilient teams, and create sustainable workflows. This presentation aims to equip leaders with the skills to inspire, support, and lead with empathy, ensuring long-term success for both individuals and organizations.
Speakers
avatar for Kirby Brock

Kirby Brock

Assistant Principal, Las Virgenes Unified School District
avatar for Laila Jorns

Laila Jorns

Assistant Principal, Las Virgenes Unified
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Los Osos Room South

9:30am PDT

Employee Discipline with Dignity
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Employee discipline with dignity is a fundamental aspect of fostering a respectful and productive work environment. It entails addressing performance deficits or misconduct in a manner that upholds the employee's dignity and preserves their self-respect. By focusing on constructive feedback, clear expectations, and fair treatment, organizations can effectively correct behavior and performance deficits while maintaining a positive morale. This approach involves open communication, explicitly teaching the performance expectations, and providing opportunities for improvement rather than punitive measures. Ultimately, treating employees with dignity during a discipline process promotes trust, encourages more accountability, and contributes to a culture of mutual respect within the workplace.
Speakers
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Edna Room East

9:30am PDT

Improving Student Attendance & Chronic Absenteeism
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Data proven strategies to greatly increasing student attendance and chronic absenteeism.  How our school in a low income/high crime area with high mobility and historically low attendance is making big gains in getting kids to school.
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Los Osos Room North

9:30am PDT

Partnership with Health Agencies for Telehealth Services
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
In an effort to support student mental wellness, Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified school District has partnered with United Health to bring critical behavioral health services directly to cutler, Orosi, Monson, and Sultana communit8ies. This collaboration aims to reduce barriers to care and ensure that all students have access to support they need to thrive academically and personally. This presentation will outline the journey one rural school district took to bring much needed services to students in four unincorporated communities.
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
SLO Room South

9:30am PDT

The Power of Play: Deepening Trust in Teams (Meteor Education)
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Research shows that trust is initiated through a cascade of internal chemical reactions that open the doorway to unsurpassed teamwork, strong relationships, and a boost in mental health.
In this session, participants will be treated to activities, games, and reflective prompts that practice developing trust. Attendees will leave with an action plan to apply in their districts, schools, and classrooms.
Be ready to be engaged the entire time - playing, reflecting, and practicing simple activities to bring back to your schools to foster fun and connection, resulting in trust and transformation. All in the service of your team’s well-being.
Speakers
avatar for Victoria Veneziano

Victoria Veneziano

Learning Experiences Coordinator, Meteor Education
Victoria earned her teaching degree and certification from the College of Charleston, SC.  For 10 years she taught middle and high school in public and private sectors across the U.S and internationally. As a teacher, administrator, and coach, she designed and implemented mindful... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
SLO Room North

10:30am PDT

Hosted Break with Exhibitors (Sponsored by Meteor, FranklinCovey, Family Leadership Inc.)
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am PDT
Sponsors
avatar for Family Leadership

Family Leadership

“Success starts at home!” Family Leadership empowers families with transformational parenting and leadership skills that equip them to become vital contributors to their children’s academic success. Parents now serve as successful leaders in their homes, schools, and communities... Read More →
avatar for Franklin Covey Education

Franklin Covey Education

Franklin Covey Education is the most trusted provider of educational leadership development and transformational school systems change management in the world! As an evidence-based TK-12 model; Leader in Me empowers staff, students, and families to lead their life and learning by... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am PDT
SLO Room Center

10:45am PDT

Building A Legacy of Parent Champions: Creating Sustainable Family Engagement for Your District’s Future (Family Leadership, Inc.)
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Explore building lasting connections with families using inclusive and practical strategies. With over 270,000 parent graduates and 25+ years of experience, Family Leadership offers successful bilingual leadership development and professional workshops. Learn to cultivate Parent Champions through manageable, transferable practices that empower parents into leadership roles. Hear best practices from districts nationwide thriving with dynamic Family-School partnerships. Experience core parenting practices linked to learning and collaboration. Engage with Family Leadership’s proven model through hands-on demonstrations. Join us in creating stronger, sustainable family-school partnerships that shape your district and students' futures for the better.
Speakers
avatar for Malu Pulido

Malu Pulido

Family Leadership.org
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Edna Room West

10:45am PDT

Harnessing AI in Education: Transforming School Districts and Classrooms for the Future
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
This session, "Harnessing AI in Education: Transforming School Districts and Classrooms for the Future," explores the role of artificial intelligence in TK-12 education. Led by Dr. Amy Alzina, Superintendent of Cold Spring Elementary, the presentation will cover AI’s evolution, its applications in decision-making, personalized learning, and administrative processes. Attendees will gain insights into practical AI tools and learn implementation steps for district and school levels, equipping leaders to effectively integrate AI to enhance student engagement and educational outcomes.

Speakers
avatar for Amy Alzina

Amy Alzina

Superintendent, Cold Spring School District
Dr. Amy Alzina is currently the Superintendent/Principal of the Cold Spring School District in Montecito, CA, a position she has held for the past seven years.Dr. Amy Alzina’s approach to leadership is centered on creating a collaborative student-centered team focused on ensuring... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Los Osos Room South

10:45am PDT

Leading for Wellness: Building Systems of Behavioral and Mental Wellness for ALL Students
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Behavioral and mental health needs for students have never been greater. Student mental wellness programming and systems often feel like a winding road that never leads closer to improved student outcomes. As an administrator or site leader, it can be hard to know where to begin let alone where you're going or how to get there. In this session, participants will explore the interconnected systems framework as a roadmap for systems change related to student behavioral and mental health. Participants learn about measurable and actionable models for wellness and mental health school-based programs.  Consistent with the MTSS framework, we will explore Coordination of Services Team, Universal Social Emotional Screener tools processes, annual wellness scope and sequence design, program objective setting and progress monitoring, and other related evidence based practices. Participants will walk away with immediately actionable next steps and will be equipped with tools needed to lead them further down to road towards wellness.


Speakers
avatar for Carissa Lemos

Carissa Lemos

Director of Student Services, Soquel Union Elementary School District
Some people know they want to become an educator from an early age. Carissa was not that person. As the child of an educator, with three older sisters who are educators, Carissa set out to blaze their own trail.They moved to Seattle to study sociology. They spent more time out of... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
SLO Room South

10:45am PDT

Making a Strategic Shift from District Leadership Team to Stewardship Leaders
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
In 2023-2024 our Educational Services department transitioned our idea of educational leadership from a DLT (district leadership team) to Soquel Union Elementary School District Stewardship Leaders.

Stewardship is defined as “the responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving.” As members of the Soquel Union Elementary School community, we are all stewards of students and their educational experience. To do this well, stewardship of our teaching and learning work is critical.

As a part of the functioning of a school district, the leadership of this important work is essentially inclusive. This takes many forms over the course of a year. Leadership teams, curriculum sub-committees, calendar committees, report card committees, master plan committees, COST teams, grade level teams, department teams, admin teams, Racial Justice Task Forces, Equity Teams, School Site Councils, etc. all work in tandem to ensure that we all continue to thrive.
To do this even more coherently, a team of lead members, organized to support all of the interconnected work, can cooperatively:
-Develop Direction for Student Learning
-Support Staff Leadership and Learning
-Foster Collaboration for Teaching and Learning
-Grow Organizational Structures and Culture

In the first months of the 2023-2024 year, we organically built this team. While in the spirit of the district or distributed leadership team (DLT), this team will function as a shoulder-to-shoulder, growth development model. Together we began to dig into relevant data and research to create a plan, timeline, goals, etc. with our sights on leveraging assets, removing barriers, and potentially reaching practices so that all humans find efficacy and achievement at high levels.

Want to hear how it’s going, or how to get started? We’d love to share our processes and resources with you!

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Glantz Kiernan

Jessica Glantz Kiernan

Assistant Superintendent, Soquel Union
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Edna Room East

10:45am PDT

Now that you have a Seat at the Table, Eat!
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
To ensure that equity becomes a priority in your school, a cross-section of the impacted population must be involved in the conversation surrounding equity. Using the equitable practice of shared decision-making is a way to guarantee true voice. "Now that you have a seat at the table, eat!" is designed to show all stakeholders best practices for participating in this structure with the purpose of prioritizing equity in your school and or district. The discussion and activities in this session will center around things like how and when to advocate, active listening, and most importantly, communicating your message effectively, and to ensure everyone's voice is heard. By the end of this session, participants will have some things to take back to their schools and start the work.
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Los Osos Room North

10:45am PDT

School Leadership Take-aways!
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
Looking for ways to boost staff, student, and community morale? This presentation offers practical, ready-to-use strategies you can implement at your school immediately. We’ll also cover how to set up and run a House System at your site to strengthen school spirit and connection. Join us for a fun, interactive session filled with hands-on activities you can take back and use right away!  Let's have some fun together!  
Speakers
avatar for Amy Thomas

Amy Thomas

Principal, Pajaro Valley Unified School District
Ten year veteran principal of an arts charter school in Watsonville, California. Educator since 2000. Mother of two teenage boys! Ready to change the world!
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am PDT
SLO Room North

12:00pm PDT

1:45pm PDT

Break/Exhibitors
Saturday March 22, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Exhibitor Hallway

2:15pm PDT

Student Panel - California Association of Student Councils - Moderated by Randy Bangs
Saturday March 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Join us for a California Association of Student Councils (CASC) Student Panel moderated by Randy Bangs.



Speakers
avatar for Randy Bangs

Randy Bangs

Mid-State Conference Chair, Soledad Unified School District
Superintendent, Soledad Unified School District
Saturday March 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
SLO Ballroom

3:30pm PDT

Hosted Break with Exhibitors (Sponsored by SIRAS, Imagine Learning, Amergis Educational Staffing)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
Sponsors
avatar for Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning provides digital-first PreK–12 solutions for core instruction, supplemental and intervention, online courses, and virtual instruction. Our mission is to ignite learning breakthroughs with forward-thinking solutions at the intersection of people, curricula, and technology... Read More →
avatar for Siras

Siras

SIRAS Systems has provided IEP, SST, and 504 software to 16 California SELPAs and 185 Districts for over 15 years. We're the second largest in CA, and we've never lost a SELPA customer. Why do our customers love us? We simplify CALPADS reporting, improve compliance, improve goal writing... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
SLO Room Center

3:45pm PDT

From Test-Takers to Strategic Thinkers: Cultivating Student Success through Strategic Thinking
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
TBA
Learn how to cultivate confident, strategic thinkers by exploring the types of Strategic Thinking assessed on the CAASPP. We’ll uncover the gaps in traditional curriculums and demonstrate how to use data to determine precisely why students miss questions.

This session will be most relevant to you if the following points apply:
  1. >30% of your students are at Level 2 (Nearly Met) and Level 3 (Met) on the CAASPP.
    (If >70% of your students are at Level 1, Strategic Thinking In Math might be too soon.)
  2. You are struggling to find CAASPP-aligned resources (core, supplemental, assessments) that go beyond DOK1 or 2.

We’ll cover the importance of establishing a shared, universal language that enhances vertical articulation across grade levels, fostering cohesive, district-wide learning experiences that support long-term student success.

Additional resources:
- Strategic Thinking In Math - CAASPP Improvement
- ESSA Level 4 Study (WestEd)
- ESSA Level 3 Study (LXD Research)

Speakers
avatar for Valentin Ruest

Valentin Ruest

Founder & Co-CEO, Classtime
Valentin Ruest is the Founder and Co-CEO of Classtime, a California-based educational technology company dedicated to enhancing student outcomes on the CAASPP through strategic thinking in Math and ELA. Valentin’s journey into educational technology began in 2014 when he collaborated... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
TBA

3:45pm PDT

Listen Like a Leader-Avoid being accused of “not listening” (FranklinCovey Education)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Learn about the “door slammers” and “door openers” of feeling heard; when and how to use empathic listening; and how to use reflective conversations to help the members on your team feel heard, appreciated, and empowered.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Torres

Tim Torres

Education Consultant | Coach, FranklinCovey
Tim is an experienced California school principal and education consultant that is known for his positive energy and how he addresses real issues in a “real” way.  Although, at one time, Tim felt like he had to hide the effects of having a neurodiverse mind (combined Autism/ADHD... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Los Osos Room North

3:45pm PDT

Navigating the Road to a Successful Future: Considerations in Career Progression and Financial Security (Four Oaks Wealth Strategies)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Careers progress regardless of whether we seek promotions or stay in our current position. For those seeking promotions, we will cover how to evaluate the new position to determine if it will truly be a net positive. This includes analyzing aspects like income and benefits along with many overlooked items like impact on family, loss of other career paths, and future demographics. We’ll also cover steps every administrator should take to protect themselves in the event their career trajectory gets derailed. Join us to learn what you need to know before you travel further down the career path!
Speakers
avatar for Coby Crosby, CFP

Coby Crosby, CFP

Partner | Financial Planner, Four Oaks Wealth Strategies
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
SLO Room North

3:45pm PDT

Negotiators and the Scope of Bargaining (Lozano Smith)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Every Human Resources administrator should have a working understanding of the collective bargaining process under the EERA (Rodda Act). This presentation will provide an overview of the entire labor negotiations process from sunshine proposals to negotiations methodologies to ratification (with an off the road detour midway to address impasse procedures and communications strategies).
Speakers
avatar for Daniel McElhinney

Daniel McElhinney

Partner, Lozano Smith
OverviewDaniel M. McElhinney is the Assistant Office Managing Partner in Lozano Smith’s San Luis Obispo office. He provides counsel to school districts in a variety of areas, including labor, employment and governance.ExperienceMr. McElhinney regularly advises clients on matters... Read More →
avatar for Aislinn Roberts

Aislinn Roberts

Lozano Smith Attorneys at Law
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Edna Room East

3:45pm PDT

Supporting Educators with Reducing Cell Phone Distraction in the Classroom: An Overview of Initiatives (SPG Therapy & Education)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
This workshop equips leaders and administrators with taking steps towards developing a comprehensive cell phone policy for their sites. Participants will explore Regulatory, Educational, and Collaborative phone reduction initiatives based on relevant research. The session highlights the common challenges associated with introducing policies and provides leaders a menu of options and guidance for getting started on their sites. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to balance accountability and support, including two lesson plans to help students increase awareness around their technology use and start to build essential self-regulation skills.


Speakers
avatar for Brendan Garvey

Brendan Garvey

BCBA, SPG Therapy
Brendan Garvey, M.Ed., BCBA, is a seasoned Board Certified Behavior Analyst with nearly a decade of certification since 2016 and over 14 years of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Since 2011, he has specialized in providing behavioral support and intervention... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Los Osos Room South

3:45pm PDT

The Reading Rope Unraveled: Leading Educators to Differentiate Instruction for Optimal Growth (Scholastic)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
We invite principals and district leaders to join us for a research-based session on the critical need to differentiate code and meaning-focused instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners. Participants will gain insights into the importance of word recognition and language comprehension and  the power of matching instructional strategies to the specific learning needs of each child.  Anchored in Scarborough's Reading Rope and the Simple View of Reading, this session will explore how to effectively implement teacher-managed and child-managed instruction. We will highlight that not all small groups are created equally and discuss strategies to support teachers looking to target instruction.  
Speakers
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
Edna Room West

3:45pm PDT

The School Safety Assessment Playbook: Practical steps to bolster the security of school sites and ensure compliance with current safety legal requirements (AALRR)
Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
California schools must comply with several laws related to school safety.  Further, emerging technology offers schools several ways to bolster school security.  However, the laws fail to provide comprehensive guidelines as to what school districts can and are legally authorized to do to promote school safety.  This presentation will provide a comprehensive list of actions schools can take to both comply with safety laws and explore options to further increase school security.  These safety steps will help schools develop a plan to ensure their school sites are safe while honoring the rights of all involved.  


Saturday March 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
SLO Room South

4:45pm PDT

Exhibitors & Prizes
Saturday March 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm PDT
Saturday March 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm PDT
SLO Room North
 
Sunday, March 23
 

7:30am PDT

Hosted Breakfast (Embassy Suites Guests)
Sunday March 23, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Sunday March 23, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo 333 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, USA

8:30am PDT

Affinity Panel - CAAASA, CAAPLE, CALSA, LGBTQ+ Panel - Moderated by Margie Cuizon-Armelino, ACSA Deputy Executive Director
Sunday March 23, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Join us for our Sunday Morning Affinity Panel: Stakeholder group perspectives - Moderated by Margie Cuizon-Armelino, ACSA Deputy Executive Director
  • California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA) - Dr. Roxane Fuentes, CALSA President
  • California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA) - Dr. Antoine Hawkins, CAAASA President-Elect
  • California Association of Asian and Pacific Leaders in Education (CAAPLE) -  Dr. Isaac Huang, CAAPLE Past President
  • LGBTQ+ Affinity Group - Representative - Michael Tapia (retired principal) and Steve Bailey (retired classified HR Director)
Speakers
avatar for Margarita Cuizon-Armelino

Margarita Cuizon-Armelino

Deputy Executive Director, ACSA
A woman on a mission. An equity advocate and community builder, connecting people and ideas while also overseeing key organizational initiatives, special projects, staff culture, membership & business development, support services, and engagement for the Association of California... Read More →
avatar for Roxane Fuentes

Roxane Fuentes

Superintendent, Berryessa Union School District
As a public-school educator for nearly 25 years, Dr. Roxane Fuentes has served as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, principal, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and Interim Superintendent, before becoming the first Latina Superintendent of the Berryessa Union... Read More →
avatar for Steve Bailey

Steve Bailey

Dir., HR (Retired), Ventura USD
Lifetime advocate and 50-year LGBTQIA+ activist, having served on numerous Boards of LGBTOIA+ groups in San Diego and Ventura, my passion is securing and maintaining rights for my community.  Along with my spouse of 42 years, Michael Tapia, have presented at several ACSA Equity events... Read More →
avatar for Michael Tapia

Michael Tapia

Principal (Retired), Ventura USD
Michael Tapia served as a principal in in the Ventura Unified School District from 2006-2015. Prior to serving as an administrator, he taught at the elementary level for 26 years in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties. During his teaching and administrative career... Read More →
avatar for Isaac Huang

Isaac Huang

Assistant Superintendent Educational Services, Fillmore Unified School District
Dr. Huang boasts over two decades of dedicated experience catering to the holistic development of learners, from infants to adults. His educational journey spans across various roles, including teaching toddlers and preschool-aged children, serving as an elementary school teacher... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Antoine Hawkins

Dr. Antoine Hawkins

Superintendent, Evergreen School District
Sunday March 23, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
SLO Ballroom

9:30am PDT

Hosted Break with Exhibitors (Sponsored by Think Together)
Sunday March 23, 2025 9:30am - 9:45am PDT
Sponsors
Sunday March 23, 2025 9:30am - 9:45am PDT
Exhibitor Hallway

9:45am PDT

General Session - Featured Presentation by Dr. Donya Ball: We are Facing a Leadership Crisis. Here's the Cure.
Sunday March 23, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
We Are Facing a Leadership Crisis. Here’s the Cure.

Education is at a crossroads. Schools and districts across the nation are grappling with leadership fatigue, increased demands, and a growing sense of disconnection. The result? A crisis in leadership that directly impacts student outcomes, educator well-being, and the very future of our school communities.

In this dynamic and solutions-driven keynote, Dr. Donya Ball takes educational leaders on a powerful journey to diagnose the root causes of today’s leadership crisis and, more importantly, provide the cure. Through real-world insights, compelling storytelling, and research-backed strategies, Dr. Ball unpacks the essential elements required to reinvigorate leadership in schools and districts.

Leaders will walk away with:
✅ Clarity on the Leadership Crisis– Understanding the systemic challenges causing burnout, disengagement, and ineffective leadership cycles.
✅ The Cure for the Crisis – Three transformational drivers that will restore resilience, refocus vision, and reignite a culture of trust and collaboration.
✅ Actionable Strategies – Practical, no-nonsense approaches to leading with authenticity, sustaining momentum, and creating lasting impact in their schools and districts.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Donya Ball

Dr. Donya Ball

Keynote Speaker, Superintendent & Author, Dr. Ball LLC
Dr. Donya Ball is a renowned international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and leadership expert celebrated for her ability to uncover relatable leadership challenges across diverse sectors. She empowers organizations to achieve transformation through her no-nonsense, practical... Read More →
Sunday March 23, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am PDT
SLO Ballroom

11:00am PDT

Closing Session - Conference Evaluation - Final Prize Drawings
Sunday March 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Sunday March 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
SLO Ballroom
 
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