This session will highlight how internal and external communication—when strengthened by genuine engagement with staff, families, and community partners—improves educator satisfaction and belonging. This leads to increased retention and positive student outcomes.
Through interactive activities, practical tools, and real-world district spotlights, participants will learn how to co-design initiatives that enhance internal communication, expand professional learning, elevate staff and partner voices, and cultivate a culture of trust and shared purpose. Attendees will leave with clear, adaptable strategies to strengthen communication and collaboration within their own districts.
Presenters: Diana Meza, Lisa Borrego, Gustavo Morales, CDE Foundation
Diana Meza, MAPR, APR, is a seasoned Communications and Public Relations expert with over 20 years of experience across county agencies, higher education, K-12, and state-level institutions. She has a proven track record in strategic planning, crisis communications, reputation management, and building effective communication systems. With a master’s degree in Public Relations and an Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America, she actively contributes to state and national public relations committees. Beyond her career, Diana cherishes time with her husband and three daughters, creating lasting memories together.
Lisa Borrego has over 25 years of experience in education and community engagement. She has coordinated several community and statewide coalitions that include collaborations with school districts, county offices of education, non-profits, law enforcement, county agencies, faith-based and other private organizations to support educational initiatives. Lisa successfully implemented several youth development, education, health, and human service projects that led to multiple funding opportunities for communities throughout California. As the Director of Family Engagement and Community Partnerships in San Juan Unified School District, she coordinated projects and initiatives supporting the 38,000 students and 68 schools within the district. Lisa’s last position was with the California Department of Education as their first Director of Family Engagement and then as the Director of the Whole Child Division where she was committed to shining a light and elevating the work of practitioners all over the state.
Gustavo Morales joined the CDE Foundation in September 2019. As a collaborative leader, he’s helped strengthen and expand the Labor Management Initiative across the state.
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