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Welcome to the aPODERar Symposium 2025 Schedule!
We’re thrilled to have you join us for an empowering experience focused on Building Culture, Community, and Resilience. 🎉 You’ll engage with inspiring speakers, dynamic panels, and interactive workshops designed to ignite leadership and foster meaningful connections.
Use this page to explore the full lineup of events, plan your sessions, and maximize your time at the symposium. Get ready to lead with purpose and passion!
Let’s build together, CALSA Familia. 💪
#apoderarcalsa2025
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Friday, February 7
 

6:45am PST

Rise & Recharge: Morning Wellness (Day Two)
Friday February 7, 2025 6:45am - 7:15am PST
TBA
Friday February 7, 2025 6:45am - 7:15am PST
TBA

7:15am PST

Morning Kickoff: CALSA Welcome & Student Showcase
Friday February 7, 2025 7:15am - 8:30am PST
Begin day two of the conference with an energizing CALSA Welcome Address, reflecting on our shared mission and vision. This session will also feature a dynamic student showcase, celebrating the talents and aspirations of local youth. Together, we’ll continue to inspire leadership, advocate for equity, and build a stronger #CALSAFamilia.
Friday February 7, 2025 7:15am - 8:30am PST
Mainstage

8:30am PST

Building Relational Leadership for Equity, Excellence, & Student Success by Capturing Kids’ Hearts
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA
This session is designed for school administrators, district leaders, and educational professionals seeking to foster positive, equitable school environments through student engagement, strong relationships, and culturally responsive practices. It is ideal for participants with a leadership role in implementing or supporting social-emotional learning (SEL) and school culture initiatives.
Speakers
avatar for Mr. Cesar Flores

Mr. Cesar Flores

Principal, Lathrop Intermediate, Santa Ana Unified School District
Cesar L. Flores is a seasoned educational leader with over two decades of experience in various roles, currently serving as principal at Lathrop Intermediate School in Santa Ana, California. He has a strong background in instructional programming, curriculum development, and staff... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA

8:30am PST

Empowering Leadership for Equity, Engagement, and Excellence: Creating Conditions for Student Success
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA
This interactive workshop explores the critical role of school leaders in fostering equitable, engaging, and outcome-focused learning environments. Using practical strategies from Lynwood Unified School District's HR leadership model, attendees will learn how to create the conditions for success by cultivating collaborative leadership, improving staff morale, and empowering educators to inspire students. Participants will engage with real-world examples of how leadership practices that prioritize equity and social justice can enhance both student engagement and academic outcomes. The session will provide actionable tools to help school leaders connect staff with a deeper sense of purpose, which will, in turn, support every student’s journey toward excellence and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Carlos J. Zaragoza

Carlos J. Zaragoza

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Lynwood Unified School District
Carlos Zaragoza is the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Lynwood Unified School District. He began serving the Lynwood community in 2010 as Principal of Lynwood High School. During his tenure, he led transformative initiatives, including the elimination of tracking... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA

8:30am PST

Latina Leaders Interdependence & Connectedness: Our Journey Towards Organizational Coherence
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA
Participants will understand the impact of a high functioning Latina, leadership team within a suburban District that serves a significant population of Latino(a) students. Participants will learn strategies and leadership approaches that are creating coherence across the District.
Some key elements participants will learn about:
  1. How culture influences the Latina leaders and fosters a sisterhood.
  2. How to build the resilience and emotional intelligence of your leadership team.
  3. The importance of building trust and connections.
  4. The power of aligned communication and ongoing accountability.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Deborah Martinez

Dr. Deborah Martinez

Director of Educational Equity & Multilingual Learner Services, Santa Barbara Unified School District
Dr. Martinez, Director of Educational Equity & Multilingual Learner Services for the Santa Barbara Unified School District has served as an educator for more than 20 years. She started her career as an elementary and junior high teacher for 12 years and was recognized as Distinguished... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Hilda Maldonado

Dr. Hilda Maldonado

Superintendent, Santa Barbara Unified School District
Dr. Hilda Maldonado took the helm of Santa Barbara Unified School District on July 1, 2020, becoming the second female - and first Latina - to serve as Superintendent in the history of the district, founded in 1866. She spent 30 years in LAUSD rising from a bilingual teacher to... Read More →
avatar for Denise Alvarado

Denise Alvarado

Executive Director of Elementary Education, Santa Barbara Unified School District
Denise Alvarado, a Mexican immigrant who came to the U.S. at age 12, is the Executive Director of Elementary Education for Santa Barbara Unified, where 61% of students are Latino. With over two decades of experience across four districts in Orange County and Santa Barbara, she... Read More →
avatar for Sonia Wilson Ed.D.

Sonia Wilson Ed.D.

Executive Director of Secondary Education, Santa Barbara Unified School District
Dr. Sonia Wilson, Executive Director of Secondary Education for the Santa Barbara Unified School District has served as an educator and administrator for nearly thirty years as a classroom teacher, principal, director, and executive director in both rural and suburban school districts... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PST
TBA

9:45am PST

Alas y Corazón: Uplifting Educational Leaders Together
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA
In the spirit of community and mutual support, this session is dedicated to how we mentor new principals in our district to cultivate leadership that champions equity, excellence, and student success. Drawing from the invaluable lessons we have learned through the CALSA Mentoring Program, we are eager to extender nuestras alas and share how we have used these experiences to support others. Leading with corazón, we aspire to uplift and empower fellow educational leaders by building strong, supportive relationships. By supporting and building up others, we cultivated a network where new principals could focus on making a difference in their schools. Please join us to discover how to implement similar mentoring strategies with leaders in your district.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Navarro

Anna Navarro

Multilingual Program Specialist, La Habra City School District
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA

9:45am PST

Build a Belonging Culture for Deeper Learning & Why Inclusion is Not Enough
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA
In this session, participants will engage in interactive activities as they explore evidence-based strategies for establishing a belonging culture through identity and pro-social skills; recognize implicit bias and learn how it shows up in school settings; and ignite systemic change through intentional planning.
Speakers
avatar for Regina Flores-Dunda

Regina Flores-Dunda

Assistant Principal, Diamond Ranch High School, Pomona Unified School District
Regina Flores-Dunda is a dedicated educator with over two decades of experience and a strong commitment to promoting educational equity and college and career readiness. Beginning her journey in 1997 as the first Latina/Native American to represent Colorado at the Miss America pageant... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA

9:45am PST

Champions of Change: District Leadership Driving School Success
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA
In a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous) world, school principals need support from district leadership to assist in focusing their attention toward actions that promote excellence in learning through improvement of school climate, conditions of learning and focus on learning.   Learn how CESD district leadership has found a way to support school leaders even as changes in personnel persist.  
Speakers
avatar for Norma E. Martinez

Norma E. Martinez

Superintendent, Centralia Elementary School District
Ms. Norma E. Martinez has been with the Centralia Elementary School District since 2010 and is honored to be its Superintendent since 2015.  She proudly leads her award-winning district with schools in the cities of Anaheim, Buena Park and La Palma.  Her schools have received recognition... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Stacy Chang

Dr. Stacy Chang

Assistant Superintendent, Centralia Elementary School District
Dr. Stacy Chang serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Education Services for the Centralia Elementary School District in Orange County, where her responsibilities encompass overseeing Curriculum & Innovation, Special Education, Student Services, Expanded Learning and Preschool... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA

9:45am PST

Diversifying the School-based Mental Health & Wellness Workforce
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA
The Santa Clara County Office of Education in partnership with local high-needs school districts and minority-serving institutions of higher education are diversifying the school-based mental health workforce through leveraging partnerships and optimizing funding to ensure inclusive practices that are culturally relevant and equity-based. We know the importance of having school-based mental health providers that reflect the language and cultural diversity of the communities they serve. Learn how SCCOE is meeting the diversity needs of local districts to ensure equitable access of mental health services for all students.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Freda Rossi

Dr. Freda Rossi

Director MBH and Apprenticeships, Santa Clara County Office of Education
Dr. Freda Rossi is the current Director of Mental & Behavioral Health and Apprenticeship Programs in the Educator Preparation Programs in the Santa Clara County Office of Education. In her current capacity, she leads the development of diverse school-based mental health and wellness... Read More →
PM

Phil Morales

Director/Principal of Opportunity Youth Academy, Santa Clara County Office of Education
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA

9:45am PST

The Untapped Market of Public-Private Partnership in Public Education
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA
Dive into the dynamic realm of revitalizing public education spaces, including workforce housing dynamics, surplus property from school closures, and reimagining district real estate. Discover the art of strategic funding exploration, tapping into state, local, and private sector resources to revitalize educational infrastructure. Lastly, learn to navigate partnership complexities, unlocking the potential of collaborations with local and national organizations to amplify school facilities projects. Together, we will explore how to create inviting environments that inspire students to come to school and engage actively in their education, ultimately reducing absenteeism and fostering a culture of attendance and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Ochoa, M.Ed.

Jessica Ochoa, M.Ed.

Executive Director of Communications and Community Relations, Inglewood Unified School District
Jessica Ochoa serves on the Board of Directors for the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, exemplifying her commitment to advancing equity in education. As a distinguished and visionary leader in public education, who is reshaping the blueprint of... Read More →
avatar for Jordan Miles

Jordan Miles

Deputy Chief Facilities Planning & Construction Officer, Inglewood Unified School District
As the Deputy Chief Facilities Planning & Construction Officer for the Inglewood Unified School District, Jordan Miles is responsible for managing the $320 million facilities program for district-wide modernization and new construction projects. His mission is to improve the quality... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PST
TBA

11:00am PST

General Session featuring Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza & the Women's Leadership Network Awards
Friday February 7, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PST
Friday February 7, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PST
Mainstage

1:15pm PST

Partner Workshop Block
Friday February 7, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm PST
TBA
Friday February 7, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm PST
TBA

2:30pm PST

Empowering Multilingual Learners: A Path to Success through California's Math Framework
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA
School districts and County Office of Education leaders play a crucial role in advancing equitable outcomes for Multilingual Learners (MLLs) by centering their unique needs in the implementation of curriculum frameworks. The adoption of the 2024 Math Framework by the State Board of Education presents an opportunity to ensure that English learners (ELs) are at the forefront of equitable math education efforts.
This workshop will provide participants with an overview of the EL-specific language embedded in the framework and offer actionable recommendations to promote equity in its implementation. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of high-quality instructional materials and the integration of English Language Development (ELD) within the adopted math curriculum to enable MLLs to succeed in rigorous coursework.
By the end of the session, education leaders will have a clearer understanding of the framework's content, suggested implementation actions for schools and districts, and tools to support equitable adoption and application. The session will provide strategies that focus on meeting the needs of ELs and multilingual students, driving more inclusive and effective educational outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Renae Skarin, Ph.D

Renae Skarin, Ph.D

Senior Director of Content, English Learners Success Forum
avatar for Dr. Alma Castro

Dr. Alma Castro

Director of California Initiatives, English Learners Success Forum
avatar for Manuel Buenrostro

Manuel Buenrostro

Policy Director, Californians Together
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA

2:30pm PST

Leveraging Expanded Learning Programs to Reduce Chronic Absenteeism
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA
Regular attendance is key to student success, supporting higher literacy rates and increased high school graduation. This workshop will showcase how high-quality Expanded Learning programs, such as those offered by Santa Ana USD, can effectively promote consistent attendance and reduce chronic absenteeism. Participants will gain insights into proven strategies and resources that foster strong partnerships with schools, communities, and families, helping to ensure students stay engaged, thrive academically, and reach their full potential.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Cisneros

Jennifer Cisneros

Director of Expanded Learning, Santa Ana Unified School District
Jennifer Cisneros, a seasoned professional with 24 years in the Expanded Learning field, currently serves as the Director of Expanded Learning at the Santa Ana Unified School District. In this role, she leads a team operating 48 TK-12th before and after-school and summer programs... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wolk, Ph.D.

Emily Wolk, Ph.D.

Executive Director of Research & Evaluation, Santa Ana Unified School District
Emily Wolk received her Ph.D. in Education from Claremont Graduate University. Emily has taught in Santa Ana Unified School District schools for nearly 20 years prior to moving to her work in research and evaluation.  Now, she currently serves as the Executive Director in the Research... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA

2:30pm PST

Liberatory Design Mindsets
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA
Liberatory Design Mindsets are the result of a collaboration between Tania Anaissie, David Clifford, Suse Wise, and the National Equity Project. With appropriate credit, we can use and share their content. The Liberatory Design Mindsets invoke particular stances and values to ground the Liberatory Design process. These Mindsets catalyze creative courage, conversation, reflection, community-building, storytelling, and action to:
  1. Bring self-awareness and intention to our design practice.
  2. Help us recognize oppression in how we live and work and realize alternate ways of being and doing.
  3. Expand our frame of reference for what is possible.
  4. Inspire creative courage and set a foundation for liberatory collaboration.
My approach to leading a Liberatory Design Mindset workshop at CALSA would be to share each mindset, invite discussion from our unique lenses, and be thought partners in how to use the mindsets to embody them in the work we do at our respective workplaces.
Speakers
avatar for Jacqui Nott

Jacqui Nott

Principal, Louis Bohn Elementary
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA

2:30pm PST

The Whole Leader: Honoring the Wounds and Creating Space for Healing
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA
Trauma responsive leadership honors the whole leader as we develop an understanding of the nature of trauma and how it impacts the mind, body, and soul. This includes knowledge of the brain, nervous system, and the importance of maintaining emotional regulation even when challenges touch our individual or collective wounds.  As equity leaders we must continue to build self awareness around personal trauma and the trauma of others and understand how trauma may manifest in an organization.  Come learn trauma responsive  strategies and practices for supporting the healing of self and others.
Speakers
avatar for Sonia Wilson Ed.D.

Sonia Wilson Ed.D.

Executive Director of Secondary Education, Santa Barbara Unified School District
Dr. Sonia Wilson, Executive Director of Secondary Education for the Santa Barbara Unified School District has served as an educator and administrator for nearly thirty years as a classroom teacher, principal, director, and executive director in both rural and suburban school districts... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
TBA

3:45pm PST

SPOTLIGHT DISCUSSION - Fiscal Insights with School Services of California
Friday February 7, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm PST
Speakers
avatar for Megan Baier

Megan Baier

Director, Government Relations, School Services of California
Megan Baier, Director, Government Relations, brings a wealth of public policy and political  experience to SSC. Prior to joining SSC, Megan led the Association of California School  Administrators’ budget advocacy, representing school leaders in the Capitol on key fiscal and  policy... Read More →
Friday February 7, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm PST
Mainstage

5:00pm PST

Networking with Purpose: Where Our #CALSAFamilia Comes Together (Day Two)
Friday February 7, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm PST
TBA
Friday February 7, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm PST
TBA

9:00pm PST

CALSA Casino Night
Friday February 7, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PST
TBA
Friday February 7, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PST
TBA
 
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