March 2026 Newsletter

Dear CALSA familia,

We want to begin by acknowledging the extraordinary conference we just experienced. Focus on Results 2026 (FOR2026): Cada Semilla Cuenta was meaningful and energizing on so many fronts. It re-ignited and strengthened our shared commitment to reflect, connect, and elevate public education.

FOR2026 brought together educators from across the state, and affirmed the power of what is possible when we stand together with clarity, courage, and corazón. Ideas were exchanged, partnerships strengthened, and a renewed sense of purpose ignited.

Leadership grows in community. When we invest in one another, celebrate our identities, and lead with purpose, we build education systems that reflect the brilliance of our students and families. CALSA is about honoring the past and working towards a future that uplifts our communities, champions equity, and ensures every learner is seen, valued, and empowered.

As we move forward, our commitment to realizing the vision for CALSA remains resolute, focused on strengthening pathways for Latino and Latina educators; elevating the brilliance of our multilingual and multicultural students; and building systems that honor and prioritize every student in our schools. Through our programs and chapters, we deepen leadership pipelines, expand professional learning rooted in community, and continue aligning our work with the lived realities of the families we serve.

Your leadership fuels CALSA’s impact, and your dedication ensures that no leader and no child walks this journey alone. This is the heart of our work, and why CALSA exists.

With gratitude, unity, and esperanza,

Dr. Juan Manuel Santos

Board President

Jessica Ochoa, M.Ed.

CEO

FOR2026 brought renewed focus to the progress we are driving together, highlighting not only why we lead but also what our leadership achieves. The keynote speakers called us to translate purpose into action, commitment into strategy, and community strength into measurable gains for students.

Superintendent Dalia Gadelmawla of Corona-Norco Unified School District urged leaders to stay rooted in intention, the same goals, and more soul, while Jerry Almendarez, Founder & CEO of Creative Futures Collaborative, reminded us that leaders can’t carry the weight alone. In uncertain times, community resilience sustains us and strengthens our impact. 

Jorge A. Aguilar, Superintendent of Wonderful College Prep Academy, spoke to the power of belonging, emphasizing that when doubt arises, CALSA is a place where leaders are seen and supported. You are the needle. We are the needle. Together, we move systems.

Dr. Veronica Alvarez, Executive Director of Create CA, emphasized that representation is transformative and inclusion is an intentional choice. Through the arts, students discover identity, healing, and possibility.

We were also honored to hear from Dr. Miguel A. Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education, who urged us to stay rooted in our why, what, and how. His message underscored a central truth: leadership matters. It matters in the way we show up, the expectations we set, and the hope we cultivate as we expand opportunities for every student.

We thank our highlighted leaders for their insights and for reminding us of the vital role each of us plays and the amplifying power we create together as a community of education leaders!

Spotlighting Our Familia

We heard many uplifting voices throughout FOR2026. We want to spotlight Rosaura Altamirano, Senior Manager of Supply Chain and Logistics at Oakland Unified School District, who shared what CALSA familia means to her: 

“CALSA familia for me is a network, a community of comadres and compadres. It’s a family that’s super supportive, so that even when you’re feeling down, you can call someone,” Altamirano said. “They’re inspiring, and they help you navigate through challenges. It is a very difficult time in our country right now, so it’s always good to have the folks from CALSA supporting you and giving you advice on how to move forward.”

For many of our members, CALSA is more than a professional network; it’s a community rooted in cultura and collective support. By empowering one another, our leaders continue to strengthen the future of education for the students and communities we serve. 

The Power of Networking: Expanding Regional Connections

At CALSA, we are proud to create spaces where superintendents, educators, counselors, and other educational leaders can engage in meaningful conversations about today’s educational landscape and how we adapt to its ever-changing nature.  

We are powerful when we stay engaged. Let’s keep the FOR2026 momentum going. Reach out to the CALSA member you met at the conference and/or connect with someone who inspired you!

Our regions are the heartbeat of our CALSA community. They bring local perspectives to the forefront, foster relationships, and create space for collaboration, learning, and action.

We encourage you to get to know your CALSA region and its leadership.

• Region 1: Bay Area
• Region 2: Sacramento/Sierras
• Region 3: Central Valley
• Region 4: Central Coast
• Region 5: Los Angeles
• Region 6: Inland Empire/San Diego

By strengthening our connections and raising our collective voices, we make sure that diverse leadership perspectives are represented in conversations that shape educational policies and legislation. Together, let’s continue to nurture and empower our familia.

Women’s Leadership Network Symposium 2026 (April 25)

Be part of the Women’s Leadership Network (WLN) Symposium on April 25, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, at the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools in Rancho Cucamonga.

Guided by our theme of exchanging Pearls of Wisdom, this symposium empowers women leaders to build meaningful connections, engage in reflection, and strengthen their leadership grounded in wellness and community.

Register today to expand your network while cultivating practices that sustain both your corazón and your calling!

Summer Institute 2026 (June 25-27): Somos el Puente entre Generaciones

Join us this June in Chula Vista for Summer Institute 2026: Somos el Puente entre Generaciones! A gathering dedicated to strengthening connections across generations. 

This year's Summer Institute will take place June 25-27 at the Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center in Chula Vista, California. Educational leaders, policymakers, and students will come together to raise their voices and bolster the next generation of leaders. 

The theme, We are the bridge between generations, reflects the importance of mentorship, leadership development, and honoring those who paved the way. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with peers, learn from experienced leaders, and engage in sessions. 

Summer Institute supports all educational leaders at every stage of their journey. Join us as we continue to build bridges that strengthen our schools, communities, families, and the future of Latino leadership across California and beyond.

Secure your spot today! Early Bird registration closes April 6.

Stay connected to learn about upcoming events & opportunities!