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 Marriott Marquis, unless otherwise noted.
Wednesday, Dec. 2
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
Thursday, Dec. 3
12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
($102)
Description
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) invites attendees of CSBA’s Annual Education Conference to this luncheon featuring a panel discussion and insights from key speakers on critical policy, budgetary and political issues. ACSA’s Governmental Relations team and partners will provide the latest updates, while superintendents will have the opportunity to discuss local challenges, share best practices and explore solutions together. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn and contribute to the future of education in California.
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($102)
Description
Join us during CSBA’s 2026 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show for the Annual Unity Luncheon! You won’t want to miss this special event, which offers attendees the opportunity to network, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with allies and leaders in public education.
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($102)
Description
CSBA is honored to host the Legislative Action Luncheon during the 2026 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show. The Legislative Action Luncheon is always an entertaining and informative event featuring hot topics at the state and federal levels. Join CSBA’s Governmental Relations team and a keynote speaker discussing pressing policy issues and the latest in state and national politics.
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
($102)
Description
Declining Enrollment: Overcome challenges and Seize Opportunities: Join fellow education leaders at CSBA’s insightful Trending Topics luncheon. The luncheon focuses on the latest issues and innovations in education. This year’s luncheon will provide an opportunity to hear from Megan Reilly, Chief Administrative Officer of Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) about declining enrollment, impacts on LCFF revenue funding, and strategies to mitigate these changes. Learn more about this key topic shaping California’s education system. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and stay informed on the issues that matter most to our schools and communities. We look forward to an afternoon of meaningful insights and shared expertise on December 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.!
5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
($160)
Description
Location
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Program
CSBA’s Golden Bell Awards promote excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school district and county office of education boards 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.
Who should attend?
All the winning local educational agencies are encouraged to attend, as well as those who have supported the award through the vetting process.
Registration
The registration fee is $160, including light appetizers and a no-host bar. Business or cocktail attire is appropriate. Registration will open in October.
There is limited space for this prestigious event. Once the event is sold out, no more registrations will be accepted. There is no onsite registration for this function.
Friday, Dec. 4
7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
($75)
Description
The Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association (APISBMA) warmly invites you to our annual breakfast during CSBA’s 2026 Annual Education Conference and Trade Show on Friday, December 4, from 7:15 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Start your conference day with purpose and connection! The Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association (APISBMA) will spotlight the leadership of AANHPI state legislators and their work to keep education policy and funding at the forefront of decision-making. Hear from our legislators who are actively advancing the needs of AANHPI students and advocating for the resources necessary to ensure their success.
You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with trustees and education leaders from across California. Join a dynamic room of thoughtful and committed leaders who are ready to engage even at 7:30 a.m. This highly anticipated event has sold out in recent years so get your tickets early. We look forward to welcoming you.
Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2026 keynote speaker.
7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
($75)
Description
Mark your calendar for the Counties Breakfast Meeting at CSBA’s Annual Education Conference (AEC)! Enjoy a delicious breakfast and hear from an inspiring guest speaker as they share valuable insights specific to your role as a county trustee. The theme for this year’s breakfast is Special Education.
This gathering is a fantastic opportunity to network, connect and engage with fellow county board members from across the state. Don’t miss this chance to build valuable connections and gain fresh perspectives to bring back to your board.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
Description
The California Association of Black School Educators (CABSE) invites you to a powerful luncheon conversation centered on educational equity, leadership, and transformative action. For 10 years, CABSE has championed efforts across California and the nation to confront inequities impacting Black students while advancing bold solutions that promote academic success and opportunity. This year’s session will spotlight the Blueprint for Education Equity 2.0, an action-driven evidence and practice toolkit shaped by the voices, expertise, and lived experiences of educators and advocates throughout the state.
Engage alongside influential educators and policymakers as we examine innovative practices and proven strategies designed to create lasting impact in schools and districts. Together, participants will exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and continue the important work of removing barriers that hinder student achievement. Join this meaningful gathering of change-makers committed to building an education system where excellence, access, and success are possible for every student.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
Description
Join the California Association of Suburban School Districts annual luncheon at CSBA’s 2026 Annual Education Conference in San Diego! This is an opportunity for governing board members, superintendents and invited guests to gather for an informative networking lunch. This year we are honored to recognize California State Board of Education President Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond and to be joined by the President of the Stuart Foundation Sophie Fanelli.
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.
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
Description
Special Education and Small School Districts: Navigating increasing needs: Enjoy a delicious lunch and hear from an inspiring panel of education leaders about special education, with a focus on supports for small school districts. Leaders will share their insights on collaboration, regional partnerships, as well as supporting multilingual students with disabilities. Guests will hear from a superintendent and leaders from two SELPAs from across the state about navigating the increased need for resources and the unique challenges small school districts face. This luncheon is a fantastic opportunity to network, connect, and engage with fellow board members representing California’s small school districts. Don’t miss this chance to build valuable connections and gain insights into resources to bring back to your board. CSBA’s Small School District Advisory Workgroup looks forward to seeing you there!
12:15 – 1:30 p.m.
($102)
Description
Join CSBA for the 2026 Women’s Leadership Luncheon in San Diego featuring special guest speaker Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel, Chair of the California State Assembly Education Committee.
An accomplished scientist, educator, community leader and former school board trustee, Dr. Patel has dedicated her career to advancing opportunity, innovation and student success in California public education. Representing the 76th Assembly District, she continues to champion policies that support students, schools and local governance.
Dr. Patel also authored two CSBA-sponsored bills during the 2026 legislative session focused on improving support for local educational agencies and streamlining education reporting requirements.
At the Women’s Leadership Luncheon, Dr. Patel will share her journey from scientist and education advocate to state policymaker, offering insight and inspiration for leaders committed to making a difference in their communities.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn and celebrate the impact of women’s leadership in education and public service at AEC 2026 in San Diego.