CALSA Summer Institute 2025

This presentation explores the critical need to expand access to dual immersion programs for students with disabilities. It highlights the current landscape, emphasizing barriers to participation, and makes a compelling case for why inclusion matters for educational equity, language development, and social-emotional growth. The presentation outlines key principles and practical strategies for creating inclusive dual immersion environments, addresses common challenges, and showcases success stories demonstrating positive outcomes. An actionable plan is provided to guide schools and districts in fostering a more equitable and dynamic learning community for all students. Attendees will leave with concrete steps, inspiration, and resources to promote systemic change.

Just as strong roots nurture a thriving garden, strong leadership cultivates lasting change in our schools. In this interactive session, discover how Fontana Unified School District is sowing the seeds for a high-quality Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) through a Culturally Responsive Leadership approach.
Our team will share the story of how we developed a principal coaching model, unified Teaching and Learning supports through with a purposeful use of resources, and aligned instructional practices with our districtwide focus areas: Core Instruction, Teacher-Student Clarity, and Active Cognitive Engagement. We’ll reflect on lessons learned along the way — the successes, the challenges, and the unexpected growth — and offer a glimpse into how we are nurturing the next phase of our journey.
Come gather practical tools and inspiration to plant and grow leadership systems in your own district — cultivating a future where each student can flourish.

Olive Peirce is dedicated to effectively implementing English Language Development (ELD) standards and strategies to support multilingual students. Through ongoing staff commitments and professional learning, the school focuses on enhancing instructional practices for diverse learners. Additionally, the proposal highlights the successful implementation of parent listening circles, created in partnership with the local high school, to strengthen communication and collaboration between families and the school.

This workshop is inspired by the transformative insights and narratives presented in the book, "Strengthening Equitable Education Through Latina Leaders’ Perspectives," which highlights the profound impact of Latina leaders in shaping equitable and inclusive educational environments. Participants will engage with authors' personal stories, testimonios, and scholarly analyses that examine systemic barriers in educational leadership and explore pathways for transformation.
Meet the authors: LeAnne C. Salazar Montoya; Teresa Lopez Alonzo; Susie Lopez- Guerra; Veronica A. Estrada; Blanca Baltazar- Sabbah; Lori Gonzalez; Rosa Elena Coronado; Rebeca Andrade; Jacqueline Perez; Theresa Ann Meyerott; Velma Veith; Imelda L. Nava; Sonia Rojas; Sandra Lee Rodriguez. Our supporting Hermana, Sonia Rodarte Llamas.
Participants can join the group of authors with their own stories and experiences. Stay tuned! The second book is in the works! Looking for authors that Break Barriers, Unlock Futures, and Unleash Students' Potential with Proven Strategies that Change Lives.
Come and join us in this journey!

Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful Drum Major Instinct sermon, this session explores how educational leaders can channel the desire to lead into meaningful, service-oriented action through empathy interviews. Empathy interviews can turn aspiration into action by giving voice to those most impacted by educational systems. Grounded in humility, curiosity, and authentic connection, this workshop offers practical strategies for designing and conducting empathy interviews that inform systems-level transformation while honoring the dignity and experiences of those we serve. Come ready to reflect, listen deeply, and lead with purpose.

Equity begins with listening. This interactive session explores how districts are elevating student, family, and educator voices through real-time data collection—and using those insights to drive meaningful change. Discover how voice-aligned metrics can uncover hidden barriers, measure the effectiveness of equity initiatives, and ensure resources and supports are reaching the students who need them most.

Latina leaders are lighting the path forward in education—transforming systems through collective strength, cultural pride, and unwavering purpose.
In this session, we will explore how to nurture and sustain Latina leadership across the full career journey, from aspiring leaders to veteran changemakers, using a strengths-based, culturally affirming mentorship approach.

Through storytelling, reflection, and action-driven strategies, participants will be invited to recognize their own light, celebrate the light in others, and commit to a leadership journey rooted in community, not competition.

We rise by lifting each other. We lead by honoring the dreams of those who came before us—and by creating space for those who will come after.

Together, Juntas Hacia la Luz, we lead for lasting impact.