Meal Functions
Ticketed meal functions are open only to paid conference registrants. Once the meal function is sold out, no more tickets can be purchased. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Please note: Activities will take place at the Anaheim Marriott, unless otherwise noted.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
($85)
Thursday, Dec. 5
11:30 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.
($85)
Description
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) is thrilled to host a meal function during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Thursday, December 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Join us for an enriching experience where superintendents will hear a captivating keynote address and timely, relevant updates. ACSA’s Governmental Relations team and partners will provide the latest on key policy, budgetary, and political topics, along with providing a platform for superintendents to collectively discuss local challenges and opportunities and share best practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to the future of education in California.
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($85)
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($85)
Description
The California School Board Association (CSBA) is honored to host the Legislative Action Luncheon during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Thursday, December 5, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
This luncheon is always an entertaining and informative event. From the state budget to federal funding to overturn in the state Legislature and Congress, education is always a top tier political issue. It features regularly in state politics and policy where California regularly pushes the national envelope, often serving as a testing ground for national policies and political trends. Please join CSBA’s Government Relations team as we hear from a keynote speaker in California politics, discuss pressing policy issues and hear the latest in regional, state and national politics. CSBA’s Legislative Action Luncheon never disappoints.
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($85)
Description
Join us during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show for the Urban School Districts Luncheon taking place on Thursday, December 5 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.!
Experience an insightful discussion led by Christina Mata, Ethnic Studies Facilitator, and Jazmine Chavez-Diaz, Director of Secondary Education, from El Rancho Unified School District in Los Angeles. They will share their district’s journey from the adoption of Ethnic Studies as a high school graduation requirement to the expansion of ethnic studies courses offered across all subjects, including mathematics which offers Ethnic Studies Statistics. Participants will also hear about students’ experiences with the variety of offerings from El Rancho Unified School District.
History and evolution of programming
In 2014, El Rancho Unified School District (ERUSD) made history by becoming the first school district in California to adopt Ethnic Studies as a high school graduation requirement.
ERUSD Ethnic Studies program evolution includes:
- a partnership with Cal State Long Beach, which offers ethnic studies college-credit classes on Saturdays,
- a unique approach to creating and implementing their own ethnic studies courses,
- a documentary film, ERUSD Leader of the Ethnic Studies Revolution (2018) that chronicles El Rancho’s ethnic studies program evolution,
- student voices,
- the district’s long-term vision for developing a K-12 ethnic studies curriculum, and
- information about ERUSD’s Ethnic Studies Showcase for students interested in majoring in ethnic studies in college.
Speakers
Office of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Jazmin Chavez-Diaz began her career as a high school English teacher; after 11 years in the classroom, she transitioned to site administration. She has served as a Dean of Guidance and as an Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at the high school level and was also an elementary principal. In 2019, she took on the district administrator role of Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction. She is currently in her fifth year as the Director of Secondary Education for El Rancho Unified School District.
Christina Mata has been an educator for 25 years with the El Rancho Unified School District in Pico Rivera. She is part of the team that developed the Ethnic Studies program within ERUSD and created her own Ethnic Studies course that she has been teaching since 2015. Since then, she has become the Ethnic Studies Facilitator for the district as well as the Ethnic Studies Department Chair at El Rancho High School. Christina also serves her school as WASC Coordinator and Technology Resource Teacher. She has taught a wide variety of courses, including English and Ethnic Studies courses, at all grade levels.
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
($125)
Description
CSBA’s Golden Bell Awards promote excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards within local educational agencies throughout California.
This award honors the hard work and dedication of governing boards and district staff in creating innovative programs that improve student achievement and well-being in the state’s preK-12 public schools.
If you wish to learn more about the Golden Bell Awards, please visit our website here. Registration will open in October. This event is 21+ only, no students will be admitted into the event.
Friday, Dec. 6
7:30 – 8:45 a.m.
($55)
Description
The Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association (APISMBA) is excited to host our annual breakfast meal function during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Friday, December 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.
Join us for an enriching start to your conference day, where we will engage in insightful discussions and forge meaningful connections. Over the past few years, our breakfast has been in high demand, as we spotlight the impactful work of our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) state legislators. They’re at the forefront of ensuring that education policies and funding remain top priorities in their decision-making processes. Additionally, this event provides a prime opportunity to connect with Trustees from across the state who are dedicated to addressing the needs of AANHPI students and advocating for the necessary resources to ensure their success.
We’re excited to welcome you to our breakfast at AEC, where you’ll join a room filled with enthusiastic, passionate, and dedicated Trustees and Administrators.
Speakers
Alex Lee, Assemblymember
California’s 24th Assembly District
Alex Lee (李天明) represents California’s 24th Assembly District which includes the Alameda County communities of Fremont, Newark, and Sunol, and the Santa Clara County communities of Milpitas and San Jose.
Assemblymember Lee was elected in 2020, and became the youngest Asian American legislator ever elected and the first openly bisexual state legislator in California history. He currently serves as Chair of the Committee on Human Services, the Select Committee on Social Housing, and the Legislative Progressive Caucus.
In his first year in office, Assemblymember Lee was named “Legislator of the Year” by the Golden State Manufactured Home Owners League as well as the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice.
He was also named the 2022 “Legislator of the Year” by the East Bay Young Democrats, and received the “Up & Comer” award from Building the California Dream Alliance. Assemblymember Lee was recognized as one of the nation’s top “20 Under 40” officials by the Council of State Governments.
Previously, he worked on statewide policy regarding public safety, climate change, and education for California State Senator Henry Stern and Assemblymember Evan Low. Assemblymember Lee has been a Bay Area resident since birth, calling both San Jose and Milpitas his home for all his life. He is a graduate of Milpitas High School and the University of California, Davis, where he served as Student Body President.
Al Muratsuchi, Assemblymember
California’s 66th Assembly District
California Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi represents the 66th Assembly District, located in the Los Angeles South Bay and Harbor Area. A champion for public education, Muratsuchi serves as Chair of the Assembly Education Committee and previously served as Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Funding. He is also fighting climate change as former Chair of the Joint Legislative Committee on Climate Change Policies, authoring landmark legislation for California to achieve carbon neutrality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2045. Muratsuchi has written laws to fight for education, jobs and the economy, clean energy and environmental justice, public safety, veterans, and small businesses. He has helped deliver billions in increased funding for California public schools and for universal high-speed internet access to close the digital divide.
The son of immigrants, Muratsuchi was born and raised on U.S. military bases overseas before arriving in California in 1982. A product of public schools and a first-generation university graduate, he attended the University of California, Berkeley, and received a Juris Doctor degree from UCLA before settling in the South Bay. Muratsuchi has dedicated his career to public service, working as a UCLA lecturer, civil rights lawyer, and Deputy Attorney General with the California Department of Justice. Prior to serving in the California Legislature, he served on the Torrance Unified School District Board of Education, Southern California Regional Occupational Center Board of Trustees, and Torrance Planning Commission. Muratsuchi lives in the South Bay with his wife Hiroko Higuchi, Ph.D., his daughter, who attends a local public school, and their dog Teddy.
7:30 – 8:45 a.m.
($55)
Description
Join us during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show for the County Board Breakfast taking place on Friday, December 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.!
This exclusive county-specific breakfast offers more than just a meal – it’s an invaluable opportunity to kickstart your conference day with a networking opportunity with county board members and superintendents dedicated to addressing the ever-evolving needs of county students. Additionally, participate in enriching discussions led by a keynote speaker poised to explore specific county opportunities and challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to network, contribute, and enhance your skills as a county leader! Extend the invitation to newly elected or appointed colleagues who would benefit from attending this breakfast.
Speaker
David M. Toston, Sr., Senior Advisor, Strategic Initiatives
California Collaborative for Educational Excellence
David M. Toston, Sr. is a Senior Advisor at the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE). In this role, he has supported programs within the Statewide System of Support (SSOS), conducted program evaluations, oversaw literacy initiatives, and also provided direct technical assistance to LEAs that resulted in increased student achievement. A key responsibility of his is overseeing the Community Engagement Initiative, which focuses on expanding the capacity of school districts and educational partners to engage in difficult conversations, build trust, and ultimately improve outcomes for students.
Previously, David held executive positions in County Offices of Education (COE) in both Washington State and California, where he focused on organizational leadership, policy development, and resource allocation to support underserved learners. He has also led and contributed to various state committees and professional organizations to achieve equitable outcomes. As Chair of a statewide nonprofit organization, David led strategic planning and advocacy efforts to secure increased funding and improve policies for students with disabilities. In 2017, the State Senate appointed him to the Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE), where he has served as Chair for several years.
David has completed graduate programs in School Leadership and School Psychology and holds advanced certifications in leadership, school finance, continuous improvement, and family engagement.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($85)
Description
The California Association of Black School Educators (CABSE), is thrilled to host a meal function during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Friday, December 6, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Join us for a thought-provoking luncheon where education equity meets innovation. For over seven years, CABSE has been at the forefront of addressing systemic challenges in the California education system, particularly those affecting Black students. This luncheon is an opportunity to delve into the Blueprint for Education Equity, a transformative initiative sourced from across the extensive CABSE network.
Our luncheon will feature prominent educators, policymakers, and advocates who are committed to reshaping California’s educational landscape. Engage in insightful discussions on best practices and gain inspiration to create change in your own community. Through collaborative dialogue and strategic planning, we aim to break down barriers that impede Black student success and advocate for policies that foster an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students. Join us to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about innovative approaches, and contribute to a movement dedicated to making the California education system exemplary for every single student.
Come ready to share your insights and be part of a powerful conversation that is shaping the future of education in California. Let’s work together to create a brighter, more equitable future for all students.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($85)
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($85)
Description
Join us during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show for the California Suburban School Districts Association Luncheon taking place on Friday, December 6, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The annual luncheon is an opportunity for suburban school district governing board members, superintendents, cabinet members and invited guests to gather for an informative and networking event. Suburban districts are diverse yet have common concerns and commitment to serve their students and communities and to provide every student with a high-quality educational opportunity.
The luncheon provides time for connecting in person with peers from across the state, sharing experiences from the year and identifying common priorities, challenges and opportunities to collaborate. This year we’re delighted to share our speaker will be nationally recognized school finance and policy expert Jannelle Kubinec, Chief Executive Officer, WestEd. West Ed is a national leader in research, development, and service, working with state and federal agencies and local school systems. WestEd is reimagining solutions to a more equitable society by taking on the most demanding and enduring challenges in education and human development.
We anticipate Janelle’s remarks to focus on critical challenges facing California districts, her key learnings and recommendations on ways to address these challenges. Following her remarks we will engage in Q&A with attendees to spark further discussion of the issues most pressing to suburban districts and identify paths for future collaboration. As part of the Q&A, our moderators will also provide a Sacramento update and perspectives on what’s ahead in the 2025 legislative year.
Speaker
Jannelle Kubinec, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)WestEd
As WestEd’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jannelle Kubinec brings over 24 years of experience transforming outcomes for children, youth, and their families through research, policy, and technical assistance. The past 12 years in various leadership roles at WestEd supporting growth, innovation, and impact. Prior to becoming WestEd’s CEO in October 2023, Jannelle served for 12 years in various leadership roles at WestEd that included leading major federally funded centers, driving major policy changes related to early learning and K-12 funding and accountability systems, and building and strengthening operational systems at WestEd.
She has dedicated her career to social and public good with experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. She is nationally recognized for her work related to school finance and effective resource allocation. Notable contributions include guiding California through a once in a generation redesign and transformation of its K-12 funding formula and accountability system and serving as principal architect and manager of a diverse team of researchers and policy experts to craft the California Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which has guided historic increases in funding, improved support for the workforce, and expansion plans to include all 4-year old children in Transitional Kindergarten.
She brings a deep commitment to WestEd’s mission to promote excellence, achieve equity, and improve learning and education and human development, motivated by experiences working alongside young children, teachers, and leaders.
She received her BA and Masters of Public of Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($85)
Description
CSBA’s Legal Services team is honored to be hosting this year’s Small School Districts Luncheon at CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Friday, December 6, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Legal Services recognizes the unique challenges that come with being a small school district and understands that having fewer resources and smaller communities does not relieve small LEAs from the obligations they have to their students. We also know that California’s small and rural districts provide exemplary educational opportunities for students every day. This luncheon provides a forum to focus on the successes and challenges of being a small LEA, to meet with fellow small and rural school board members and governance teams, and to hear from speakers who will share insights on legislation specific to small and rural schools.
Speaker
Patrick O’Donnell, Chief, Governmental Relations
CSBA
Patrick O’Donnell joined CSBA in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience in education and California politics. O’Donnell has served in California elective politics for more than 20 years. From 2014–22, he served as the chair of the Assembly Education Committee in the California State Assembly. While chair, he pushed for historic investments in the California TK-14 education system and improved school facilities. Through these efforts, he was instrumental in protecting and implementing the state’s Local Control Funding Formula and the need to ensure local control for boards of education across California.
As a long-time middle and high school teacher and legislator, Patrick serves as a credible voice for CSBA. His years of schoolsite experience infused with his legislative tenure are a unique and advantageous combination that serves CSBA well.
Patrick holds a master’s degree in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in history from California State University, Long Beach. Additionally, he is a graduate of the USC School Business Management Certificate Program and holds a California teaching credential.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($85)
Description
The California School Board Association (CSBA) is honored to host a Women in Leadership Luncheon during CSBA’s 2024 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Friday, December 6, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Join us for an exclusive event dedicated to empowering women leaders in education. This enriching experience offers guests the opportunity to network, engage in insightful conversations, and connect with allies and fellow women leaders. Attendees will be inspired by a captivating keynote speaker, motivating women to embrace leadership roles and reach their fullest potential. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from inspiring women leaders and build valuable connections with your peers. Be part of the first Women in Leadership Luncheon and contribute to the movement to empower women in education.
Speaker
Letitia Clark, Council Member/Former Mayor
City of Tustin
Letitia Clark is an elected leader, a communications professional, and author. After being first elected to the Tustin City Council in 2016, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to serve on the council in the city’s 90-year history and made headlines again upon reelection in 2020 as the first woman to serve as mayor in nearly two decades. Clark has also served as an appointed member on many boards and commissions, including the Regional State Water Board as an appointee to Governor Newsom. Clark is a champion of education as the Chief Communications Officer at the South Orange County Community College District and has served in higher education since 2015. Her newest role as an author has been one of enjoyment as she promotes her debut release, a children’s book “Mommy is the Mayor” and her second release, titled “Baby’s Room to the Boardroom – A guide for working moms: How to transition from bottle feeding to boss moves”. Her most coveted title however is wife and mom to three, teenage twins and a toddler.