Description

Join us for an engaging session that delves into the transformative power of communication within the context of the Community Schools Initiative, amplifying historically disenfranchised voices. In this session, we will explore how innovative communication strategies can empower parents and elevate student voices, ultimately fostering greater equity in education. 

In an effort to inspire educational leaders, this session will provide practical approaches and real-world examples of how effective communication can facilitate meaningful parent involvement and empower student voices within the community school framework. 

Attend this session to acquire powerful techniques and strategies designed to transform your current community school initiative or other equity-driven projects that engage parents and students. 

Are you content with maintaining the status quo in your community schools initiative, or are you ready to break free and harness innovative communication tactics to redefine your district’s narrative and stance to empower families for the betterment of student success? 

We invite you for insights, strategies, and inspiration for driving positive change through innovative communication within the Community Schools Initiative. Together, we can create a more equitable and empowered educational environment.

About the Presenters:

Diego Perez is the Director of Communications for the San Mateo-Foster City School District, where he has played a pivotal role in transforming the district's communication landscape to foster stronger connections with parents and the community. His notable achievements include spearheading the revamping of district websites, launching the OneSMFC Podcast to engage stakeholders, and implementing an inclusive communication system to ensure accessibility for all. With a strong background in public speaking and communication cultivated through his involvement in the American Forensics Association, Diego brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to his role. He is deeply committed to equity and believes in the power of communication to drive positive change in educational communities. Diego holds a Bachelor's degree from Concordia University Irvine and a Master's in Communication from Cal State East Bay.

Dr. Christian J. Rubalcaba is a district administrator who began his career with Teach for America, serving as a bilingual teacher and instructional coach in the San José Unified School District, CA. Earning National Board Certification in literacy and an administrative credential, he later became Assistant Principal in the Franklin-McKinley School District, after which he became Principal of Laurel Elementary School, Principal of Abbott Middle School, and Director of School Leadership in the San Mateo-Foster City School District (SMFCSD). Dr. Rubalcaba holds degrees from Harvard, Purdue, and SF State Universities, and now proudly serves as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services in SMFCSD. His work focuses on providing guidance to school leaders, and ensuring every student and family can thrive with restorative practices, wrap-around services, and increased counseling support. Dr. Rubalcaba is currently a member of the Superintendents Leadership Academy - Cohort XIV, a national premier program run by ALAS (Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents). Dr. Rubalcaba is also president-elect of Region 5, ACSA (Association of California School Administrators) and an active member of CALSA - Region 1 (California Association of Latino School Administrators).