CAAASA Souvenir Book 2013 by California Association of African American Superintendents and Administrators

WHITE HOUSE INITIATIVE ON EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS

2013 CAAASA STATE CONFERENCE co-sponsored by

California Department of Education Association of California School Administrators Presents

A California Professional Development Summit on Educational Excellence for African American Students

STRATEGIES, SOLUTIONS, SUCCESS Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel February 20th through 22nd

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013 Message From the CAAASA Executive Director

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

As the Executive Director of CAAASA, I would like to welcome you to this year’s annual conference. Our theme is Strategies to Increase Educational Excellence for African-American Students. In support of President Obama’s Initiative addressing the educational disparities of our African-American students, CAAASA stands poised to be a catalyst for collaboration among the various stakeholder organizations and agencies that advocate on behalf of the needs and goals of African-American students, educators, and families. CAAASA has spearheaded collaborative efforts with the California African-American Legislative Caucus to hold legislative hearings on the education of African-American students in California. It has also partnered with other education organizations to align common goals and interests in an effort to create a unified voice to address the inequities in education for African-American students and professional growth opportunities for African-American teachers and administrators. Additional activities sponsored by CAAASA include:

• Annual Education Retreat – July 2013 in San Diego: In collaboration with the Los Angeles County Alliance of Black School Educators (LACABSE) and other partnering organizations, we meet to discuss, strategize, and recommend programs to address the needs of low performing African-American students.

• Annual Education Roundup – September 2013, Granada Hills: This event galvanizes educators, parents, legislators, civil rights leaders, elected officials, and other community members to identify and address key state-wide education initiatives.

• Annual State Conference – February 2014, Los Angeles: Our focus will be on the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Brown v. Board (1954) and its predecessor Mendez v. Westminster (1947).

I invite you to join CAAASA and help us become one of the strongest unified voices of advocacy for African-American students. Your support will ensure our success in achieving the mission and goals of this needed organization. Please visit our membership table for more information. Sincerely,

Dwight A. Bonds

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

State Conference Planning Committee Dr. Carole Cobb

State Conference Chair/CEO Sankofa Education Alliance

Dr. Darryl Adams Superintendent

Linda Jones

School Board Member

Dr. Ramona Bishop Superintendent

Rory Kaufman

Senior Consultant Speaker’s Office for the California State Assembly

Dr. George McKenna Educational Consultant

Dwight Bonds

Dr. Dennis Byas Superintendent

CAAASA Treasurer

Dr. George King

Marguerite LaMotte

Dr. Debra Lindo

Executive Director CAAASA

Educational Consultant

Elvin Momon Superintendent

School Board Member

Winfrey Roberson Superintendent

Michael Dennis

Superintendent

Michael Watkins Superintendent

Dr. Donald Evans

Katherine Gales

Gordon Jackson

Superintendent

Executive Assistant, CDE

Assistant Superintendent, CDE

Adonai Mack

Dr. Charlie Mae Knight

Gabriel McCurtis

Legislative Advocate, ACSA

Dr. Judy White

Superintendent CAAASA President-Elect

Consultant

Regina Wilson Publicist

Superintendent

Dr. LaTyna Young Educational Consultant

President’s Message: Dr. Pamela Short-Powell President, CAAASA

I would like to take the time to first thank our State Chair and the Planning Committee for their hard work and dedication in putting together this year’s state conference. We are extremely appreciative to California Department of Education (CDE) and Association of California Superintendents and Administrators (ACSA) co-sponsors for their hard work and contributions to make this conference a success. The conference’s general sessions, seminars and workshops will provide solutions and strategies to enhance and foster positive educational environments that will improve the quality of, and expand access to an equitable education for our African-American students and students throughout the state of California. Enjoy the conference and thank you for your participation. Hope to see you next year.

2013 State Conference Goals 1.

Increasing strategies to improve graduation rates and reduce dropout rates

Addressing student discipline, suspension, and expulsion

Promoting academic success for students in alternative educational settings

Implementing Common Core State Standards to increase educational excellence for African-American Students

Providing strategies for urban school districts to successfully partner with mayors and other city leaders

Aligning strategies that promote excellence in education for African-American students

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

2013 CAAASA Conference

Founders Luncheon

Knight Fortune Honoring CAAASA Founders

Dr. Charlie Mae

Dr. Rex

Featuring Keynote Speaker

Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights in the U.S. Dept of Education, Mr. Seth Galanter.

Magnolia Ballroom, Thursday, February 21, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:15 p.m. California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Mission Statement The California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA), a group of educational leaders, is committed to identifying and addressing the critical issues in education through public policy relative to the status and performance of African-American students in California.

About CAAASA

CAAASA was reorganized and renamed in 2007. When it was originally founded in 1993, it was called the California Association of African-American Superintendents. The new leadership petitioned the organization to change its focus to include both superintendents and administrators allowing emerging leaders in administration the opportunity to better prepare for the superintendency or other high level administrative assignments. Today, its membership consists of African-American school superintendents, assistant superintendents, directors, and administrators. CAAASA has a history of hosting Institutes, state meetings, state conferences, and many special events since its inception. Serving as an informative link to California Department of Education (CDE), CAAASA makes recommendations on topics to include curriculum and instruction, staff development, parent involvement, funding and gender specific issues. CAAASA has submitted testimony to the speaker of the Assembly which would improve the status of African-American males relative to their disproportionate representation in the penal system and in the Nation’s colleges and universities. CAAASA has worked in partnership with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) by sponsoring events and programs that support increased student achievement and that proved to be successful in addressing the needs of African-American students. Under CAAASA’s leadership, the organization is working closely with new and proposed initiatives that impact the academic achievement of African-American students including a most successful and recently sponsored statewide conference in Sacramento, “Education is a Civil Right.” Additionally, we have met with Executive Search Firms and other stakeholders to address the under representation of African-American Superintendents in California school districts. CAAASA will continue to collaborate with California Department of Education (CDE) and other prominent organizations on projects and programs.

CAAASA Officers

President: Pamela Short-Powell, Ed.D. President-Elect: Dr. Judy White Treasurer: Michael Dennis Secretary: Ramona Robinson-Bishop, Ed.D. Consultant: Charlie Mae Knight, Ed.D. Membership Chair: George J. McKenna III, Ed.D. Aspiring Superintendent Chair: Michael Watkins Executive Director: Dwight Bonds CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Welcome Letters

Contents

Conference Planning Committee

About CAAASA

Conference Schedule

Excellence in Education Awards Gala

Presenter Biographies

“Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson

Originally written by Johnson for a presentation in celebration of the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, this was initially performed in Jacksonville, Florida, by children. The popular title for this work is: ‘THE NEGRO NATIONAL ANTHEM’ Out from the gloomy past, Till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

Lift every voice and sing Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us, Facing the rising sun of our new day begun Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears have been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered,

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who has brought us thus far on the way; Thou who has by Thy might Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, Our God, where we met Thee; Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand. True to our GOD, True to our native land

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013 Pre-Conference Program

Wednesday February 20, 2013

7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Registration Carr Foyer

Continental Breakfast Magnolia Ballroom 8:00 - 4:00 p.m. Aspiring and New Superintendent Academy Carr Room Conducted by Executive Search Firms, ACSA and CAAASA Member Superintendents Dr. Pamela Short- Powell, CAAASA President 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. Orientation and Welcome Magnolia Ballroom Dr. Carole A. Cobb, State Conference Chair and CEO, Sankofa Education Alliance Dr. George King, Educational Consultant Rory Kaufman, Sr. Consultant, Speaker’s Office for the California State Assembly Resources/Materials: 1. CAAASA Position Paper 2. White House Initiative 3. ECRC Agenda Logistics and Instructions Dwight Bonds, CAAASA Executive Director 9:45 - 11:00 a.m. Parent Workshop: Accessing and Desegregating Data on African-American Students McGinnis Room Conducted by Rose Owens-West and Jose Franco, WestEd 9:45 - 11:00 a.m. Conferees Visit State Capitol 11:00 - 12:15 p.m. Parent Conferees Visit State Capitol 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. Lunch On Your Own 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Town Hall Meeting: State Capitol Building Joint meeting with California Legislative Black Caucus, California Latino Room 447 Legislative Caucus and California Asian/Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Film Presentation: Chosen by God, “The Great Black Pharaohs of the 25th Century” and “They Are Not All Lost” - Moderator: Dawn Kirk Alexander Magnolia Room

Conference Program

Thursday February 21, 2013

7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Registration Carr Foyer

7:30 a.m. Vendor Exhibits Opens Atrium Continental Breakfast Magnolia Ballroom 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. Welcome and Opening Ceremony Magnolia Ballroom Call to Order – Dwight Bonds, Executive Director, CAAASA and Dr. Pamela Short-Powell, President, CAAASA ROTC Color Guard – Luther Burbank High School Senior Chief, Willaim Mc Carty and Teacher, Annetta Johnson Pledge of Allegiance Star Spangled Banner – Vocalist, Vidia Rodes & Damani Rodes, Pianist & Musician Negro National Anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing” – James Weldon Johnson Introduction/Greetings/Purpose: Dr. Pamela Short-Powell, President/ CAAASA Special Tribute to State Superintendent, Tom Torlakson Remarks/Introduction of Plenary Moderator: Dr. Carole Cobb, CAAASA State Chair 8:30 - 10 a.m. Plenary I: Educational Forum • The Budget, Common Core, and the Bright Future of California Schools Presenter: State Superintendent, Tom Torlakson • Excellence In Education for African-American Students Presenter: Dr. Eric Cooper, President and Founder of National Urban Alliance • Aligning Strategies to Increase Excellence in Education for African-American Students Presenter: Dr. George McKenna, Educational Consultant • Moderator: Kathy Hurly, Executive VP Education Alliance, Pearson Foundation 10:00 - 10:30 a.m. Transitional Break/Vendor Exhibits 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. Concurrent Workshops – Series 1

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013 • Common Core Standards and Academic Success for Students in Alternative School Settings 11:45 - 12:15 p.m. Transitional Break/Vendor Exhibits 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. FOUNDERS LUNCHEON Magnolia Room Plenary II: Addressing Student Discipline, Suspension and Expulsion • Keynote Speaker: Seth Galanter, Acting Assistant Secretary/Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Dept. of Education • Moderator: Dr. Rex Fortune, CAAASA Founder Diane Marshall-Friedman – “Education for All Scholarship” CAAASA Scholarship sponsored by Fagen, Friedman & Fulfrost, LLP 1:45 - 2:15 p.m. Transitional Break/Vendors 2:15 - 3:30 p.m. Concurrent Workshop - Series II: Increasing Strategies To Improve Graduation Rates and Reduce Drop-Out and Suspensions Rates 3:30 - 4:45 p.m. Concurrent Workshop – Series III: Strategies To Improve Educational Excellence for African-American Students

EVENING EVENTS 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Magnolia, Gardenia & Camellia Ballrooms

AWARDS GALA Reception – Sponsored by the Law Firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud and Romo “2013 Corporate Award Recipient” Magnolia Ballroom

7:00 - 9:00 p.m. “SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE” AWARDS GALA Gardenia & Camellia Ballroom Mistress of Ceremony: Dr. Pamela Short-Powell, CAAASA President Keynote Speaker: Dr. Milmon F. Harrison, Professor UC Davis, Member of Faculty, African-American and African Studies “Emancipation Proclamation – One Hundred and Fifty Years Later” & The Fifty Year Anniversary of “The Civil Rights Movement – March on Washington” (and the relevancy of it, if at all)

Conference Program

Friday February 22, 2012 7:00 a.m. – 12 noon

Registration

Carr Foyer

7:30 a.m. Vendor Exhibition Opens 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. BREAKFAST Magnolia Ballroom Plenary III: How To Successfully Partner With Urban School Districts Panelists: Eric Perrodin, Mayor Compton; Aquenetta Warren, Mayor Fontana; Dr. Aisha Lowe, Deputy Mayor Sacramento and Joan Sullivan, Deputy Mayor Los Angeles Moderator: Will H. Ector, Superintendent Berryessa Unified School District 9:15 - 10:45 a.m. Plenary IV: Legislative Forum – Current and New Initiatives and Their Impact on African-American Students Keynote Speaker: Congressman Robert “Bobby” Scott, author of “Youth Promise Act” Moderator: Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte, LAUSD Board Member Panelists: Darin Brawley, Superintendent Compton Unified School District; Dr. Judy White, Superintendent Moreno Unified School District; Eric Perrodin, Mayor Compton; Aquenetta Warren, Mayor Fontana; Dr. Aisha Lowe, Deputy Mayor Sacramento and Joan Sullivan, Deputy Mayor Los Angeles 10:45 - 11:00 a.m. Transition Break/Vendors 11:00 - 12:15 p.m. Concurrent Workshops Series IV: Common Core Standards and Academic Success for All Students 12:15 - 2:30 p.m. LUNCHEON Magnolia Room Plenary V: Strategies, Solutions, Success Moving Forward Panelists: Dr. Dennis Byas, CAAASA Superintendent, Seth Bramble, Legislative Advocate CTA; Angelo Williams Ed.D., Assistant Executive Director Policy & Program, CSBA; Reginald Fair, Legislative Director Office of Senator Curren Price; Adonai Mack. Legislative Advocate, ACSA; Micah Ali, President L.A. County School Trustees Association, Board of Trustees Moderator: Gordon Jackson, Deputy Superintendent, Student Support & Special Services 2:30 p.m. Conference Adjournment California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013 Wednesday, February 20, 2013

PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS McGinnis Room

9:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Using Data to Identify and Address Equity Issues to Improve Student Academic Outcomes Presenters: Rose Owens-West, Ph.D. and Jose Franco, Region IX Equity Assistance Center Abstract: During this session the Region IX Equity Assistance Center (R9EAC) at WestEd will provide an explanation of indicators that the research says are key to understanding current educational equity issues. The R9EAC will provide examples of data profiles to describe how districts can use these data indicators to identify equity issues and to explore strategies to improve student outcomes. Effectively addressing issues such as reducing dropout rates, improving attendance and increasing graduation rates begins with understanding and using the right data to meet the needs of the diverse students within the district. Audience: Parents and educators

Carr Room

8:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Aspiring And New Superintendent Academy Abstract: CAAASA superintendents and Executive Search Firms provide practical advice based on years of experience in this comprehensive workshop for aspiring and new superintendents. Understanding all aspects of the superintendency is critical to developing expertise and those who master a wide array of leadership and organizational skills significantly increase their chances for success. The strand will cover a full range of topics, including: • Keys to providing exceptional instructional leadership • Strategic planning, goal setting, and decision making • Budgeting, negotiations and collective bargaining

• Effective communication with staff, the board, unions, and the media - building effective relationships with community partners - negotiating the Superintendent’s Contractual agreement with the board - interviewing skills to help you “land” the job

Audience: Superintendents, District Cabinet Members, District Administrators, Central Office Staff, Program Directors, and Principals.

Magnolia Room

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Chosen By God: The Great Black Pharaohs of the 25th Dynasty & They Are Not All Lost 18

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Thursday, February 21, 2013

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

SERIES I: 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

Common Core State Standards and Academic Success for Students in Alternative Schools Beavis Room

CLARK ROOM

Presenter: Fred Mickle, Regional Manager – ACT West Region

Presenters: Presenter: Coachella Valley Superintendent Dr. Darryl Adams

The 2012 Condition of College and Career Readiness of African-American Students

Abstract: In this session we will review the findings of the 2012 ACT report, The Condition of College and Career Readiness, with a focus on implications for African-American high school graduates taking the test. Participants will learn policies and practices that states, districts and schools can implement to systemically increase the percentage of students ready for college-level work, as well as best practices from both secondary and postsecondary institutions. Audience: Open Bondi Room

Using the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and the NEA Academy’s Online PD to Close the “Math-Algebra” Achievement Gap

Presenter: Cindy Guillaume, Ed.D., Dean of Education, North Central University & John Lee, President – I CAN Learn Abstract: Research over the last half century has shown highly effective teaching is at the root of every student’s success. This session will provide information to Superintendents, Administrators, and Teachers (both Elementary and Secondary) who must prepare for the appropriate grade level progressions required by the CCSS. Attendees will learn about the NEA Academy and Professional Development strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve math proficiency for all students. We invite you to attend this interactive session, facilitated by Cindy Guillaume, Ed.D, Dean of North Central University’s School of Education. Door prizes will include graduate credit courses. Audience: Open Carr Room

Why does California suspend more kids than it graduates? …A look into the data and how some schools are working to change that paradigm through positive school discipline.

Presenters: Castle Redmond, Program Manager for the California Endowment’s Health Foundation, and Michelle Jordan-Faucette, Principal Vallejo USD

Abstract: This workshop will examine the high number of suspensions in California and the disproportionate impact on students of color. We will discuss the importance of moving away from zero tolerance policies and toward positive discipline strategies like Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) and Restorative Justice. Finally, we will learn how some California schools are changing course and reducing suspensions while raising test scores - especially for students of color.

iPads for All – 18,000 iPads for 18,000 Students - One School District’s Story.

Abstract: From California to Maine, educators have acknowledged that mobile devices provided to all students and teachers afford users a dynamic, relevant individualized learning opportunity. And yet, few have discussed the real world nuts and bolts process necessary to implement a district wide 1:1 mobile learning initiative. This fast paced workshop will provide an overview of the Coachella Valley Unified School District 1:1 Mobile Learning Initiative and Measure X, a super majority, voter approved, bond referendum used to fund the program. Measure X provided the funds necessary to purchase 18,000 iPads and implement a district wide 1 to 1 mobile learning initiative. The workshop will provide participants with lessons learned, timelines, staff engagement and training practices, important infrastructure and budgetary considerations when contemplating a mobile learning initiative, and critical steps to take when developing and executing a successful voter approved funding mechanism. Questions How do I to effectively educate my internal and external stakeholders regarding the benefits of 1:1 mobile learning? How do I establish a culture of engagement and empowerment while asking my staff to revamp their entire curriculum and integrate dynamic mobile learning techniques? What are the steps involved? Who are the professionals I need to engage? What credentials should I look for in order to successfully secure voter approval of a mobile learning initiative? Audience: The intended audience includes: K-12 school administrators and/or teachers FALOR ROOM

A Look at the Common Core Standards

Presenter: Mary Murray Autry, Ph.D., CDE Consultant Abstract: To better prepare students for college and the work force, the State Board of Education adopted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) on August 2, 2010 to replace the California 1997 Standards. This presentation provides an overview of the CCSS. Participants will gain an understanding of the CCSS, recognize grade level shifts in content and instructional practice, and identify helpful resources for implementation of the CCSS. Audience: Open

Audience: Open California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Magnolia Room

Equity and Access for African-American Children through LAUSD’s Performance Meter

Presenters: Cheryl Hildreth, Instructional Area Superintendent West and Dr. James Noble, Administrator of Operations, Los Angeles Unified School District Abstract: Looking at data that indicates we are on the right track for increasing achievement and attendance data, and reducing suspension data. Indications for the current reality and implications for the future will be addressed. Audience: Open MCGINNIS ROOM

Ensuring African-American Students’ Access to Complex Text: A Case Study of Promising Practices with Hands-On Literacy at School and Home

Presenter: Dr. Diana Dumetz Carry, National Executive Consultant of School Improvement for ETA Hand2Mind

Abstract: Having high standards is not enough! Instructional strategies aimed at improving reading outcomes for AfricanAmerican students must address effective and engaging instruction using complex text. Learn how a large urban school in an at-risk, gang-ridden neighborhood successfully determined how to “power” the Common Core with student-centered handson instruction and community engagement. The model is a proven, three-phase “safety-net” program to increase vocabulary and language proficiency. Packed with examples and tools for practical application, this model targets teaching the most critical cognitive skills from the Common Core State Standards giving AfricanAmerican students strategies to access complex text. Audience: Open

Increasing Achievement Levels for African-American Student Through Instructional Rounds

Presenters: Dr. Mark Marshall, Superintendent of Eastside Unified School District and Dr. Matthew Ross, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Abstract: Raising the achievement levels of African-American students is a priority at the State and National level. Instructional Rounds is one element of the instructional observation protocol used in the rollout the Common Core State Standard to build a culture of high quality instruction at scale and for identifying the various levels of engagement among African-American students in the classroom, ensuring that all students have access to highquality instruction, no matter the classroom.

Increasing Strategies to Improve Graduation Rates, Reducing Dropout Rates, and Decreasing Student Suspension/Expulsion BEAVIS ROOM

How Common Core State Standards and Technology can Increase Student Engagement and Intensify Learning Presenters: Monica Peavy, Professional Services Manager and Katrina Hasan Hamilton, Regional Director of District Partnerships – WIRELESS GENERATION (Part of Amplify).

Abstract: Join us for an exciting interactive workshop that will showcase how the use of Educational Technology can spark students’ interest in mastering Common Core State Standards. Our products, including mCLASS® Beacon and Burst®:Reading Literacy Intervention, will help promote a positive school climate by using assessments along with short, engaging, research-based lessons to effectively meet the needs of individual students. This precise approach is guaranteed to help address the root causes of special education referrals while intensifying student learning. The session will include data from some of the nation’s largest urban school districts (including Washington D.C., Chicago Public Schools and LAUSD) along with proven methods of successful academic achievement and growth among African-American male and female students. Audience: Open BONDI ROOM

An Empowerment Workshop: Changing the financial landscape of African-Americans and creating a LEGACY of multi-generational wealth.

Presenters: Adam Bar and Mya Dobson, Financial Advisors – NEW YORK LIFE

TOFANELLI ROOM

Audience: Open

SERIES II: 2:15 – 3:30 p.m.

Abstract: This is a unique opportunity to incorporate underutilized and sometimes misunderstood financial empowerment tools to create greater financial stability. Financial stability creates a space for effective Pedagogy. Audience: Superintendents, teachers and parents are all asked to attend this meeting. CARR ROOM

Fostering Success for all Students, Particularly Black and Brown Boys

Presenter: Michael Dennis, CEO/Teacher Power, Inc. & Dawn Kirk-Alexander, TANAL Abstract: The STARS Program (STudents Achieving & Reaching Success) is an additive approach for student success. This research and standards-based social justice curriculum model incorporates Character Development, Critical Thinking, Rites of Passage, and Reading, Writing & Work into a “one stop” culturally relevant and responsive curriculum. The goal is to provide resources to

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

ensure all students are successful in school as well as in life. In the past five years of this program’s implementation, it has shown a 150% increase in student proficiency rates in English Language Arts, while decreasing negative behaviors (suspensions, class disruptions, expulsions etc.) by up to 200%. The workshop will engage the audience in a participatory, multi-media presentation that involves music, video, and interactive lessons from the STARS curriculum.

Abstract: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers are critical to the American economy, and AfricanAmerican students must prepare to participate. This presentation will describe how high school minority students are being assisted by Level Playing Field Incorporated for STEM studies. In addition, it will provide research-based parenting practices appropriate for the elementary and middle school students which will strengthen their academic achievement before high school.

Audience: Open

Audience: Parents

FALOR ROOM

SERIES III: 3:30 – 4:45 p.m.

Kids In Chaos

Presenter: Ray Culberson, Director of Youth Services for San Bernardino Unified School District Abstract: If your passion for excellence is not energized when you leave one of Ray Culberson’s unique presentations, then nothing can ignite a fire in you to achieve success in the field of education. Ray Culberson has talked to more than 18,000 students, parents, and professional educators. His approach to dealing with “Kids in Chaos” has changed the way people think within educational organizations. Ray’s presentations are designed to change attitudes in dealing with difficult students, difficult parents, difficult problems, difficult decisions and difficult political circumstances within the educational arena that do not effectively deal with “Kids in Chaos.” Audience: Open

MCGINNIS ROOM

Parent Empowerment – The Key to Improved Dropout and Graduation Rates

Presenters: Dr. Harold Cebrun, Sr. Superintendent, Rialto Unified School District; Dr. Susan Levine, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services, Rialto Unified School District (RUSD); Robin McIver-Brown, Senior Director, Categorical Programs and Services; and Curtis Winton, Director of the Parent Institute and RUSD Parent Liaison Abstract: The Rialto Unified School District recognizes that parents are the gatekeepers who unlock their children’s door to quality education and a successful life. The RUSD Parent Institute provides an educational community in which parents and district staff come together to transform each child’s educational environment. Under the auspices of the Parent Institute, a variety of powerful events and programs are contributing to closing the achievement gap and empowering parents of African-American students.

Strategies to Improve Educational Excellence for AfricanAmerican Students BEAVIS ROOM

An Antidote for Misbehaving Hiding in Plain Sight – Transforming PLCs

Presenter: Ellen Spencer, Founder of Link ED Abstract: In school districts, many formal and informal professional learning communities (PLCs) can be found in support of educating students. These PLCs are a varying mix of superintendents, administrators and principals: grade-level, unit level, or subjectspecific teachers; and parents. This paper will speak to the efficacy of prescriptive instruction and coaching that enables PLCs to design highly effective supports for students and helps avoid the use of traditional suspension and expulsion punishments. Audience: Open BONDI ROOM

Next Generation Science Standards: Overview and Connection to the Common Core

Presenter: Scott Specter, CDE Consultant

Abstract: In 2011, California was selected as one of 26 states to lead the development of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This presentation will help attendees understand the content and structure of the new science standards. Participants will learn the timeline for review and adoption of new science standards in California, as well as the connection to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Audience: Open CARR ROOM

Audience: Parents

The Greatness Initiative

TOFANELLI ROOM

Helping Parents Rear African-American Children for STEM Careers

Presenters: Dr. Rex Fortune, Founder and Dr. Ronald Fortune, Director, Fortune School of Education

Presenters: Dr. Eddie Valasquez, Superintendent, Paul Gothold, Associate Superintendent of Instruction, and Mary Ransom, President, Lynwood African-American Parent Association Abstract: The focus of this workshop will include specific strategies used by the Lynwood Unified School District to target academic success for all students. Using an integrated approach aligning curriculum, staff development, data driven instruction and parent/

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

community involvement, the district archived impressive gains in their API and AYP scores. Even more impressive were the increase in the African-American students’ API and the AYP scores. This sub-group of students out-performed all other sub-groups in the district. Come join us in this interactive, engaging, informative and duplicable workshop on strategies and solutions for success for all students.

session will offer solutions along with sample policies and procedures that will decrease the number of student suspensions within your school district.

Audience: Open

Cambium Learning Group: Voyager and Sopris Learning. Proven intervention solutions for at risk student populations: How we unlock the code for increased student achievement.

CLARK ROOM

iPads for All – 18,000 iPads for 18,000 students - One School District’s Story.

Presenter: Coachella Valley Superintendent Dr. Darryl Adams Abstract: Description - From California to Maine, educators have acknowledged that mobile devices provided to all students and teachers afford users a dynamic, relevant individualized learning opportunity. And yet, few have discussed the real world nuts and bolts process necessary to implement a district wide 1:1 mobile learning initiative. This fast paced workshop will provide an overview of the Coachella Valley Unified School District 1:1 Mobile Learning Initiative and Measure X, a super majority, voter approved, bond referendum used to fund the program. Measure X provided the funds necessary to purchase 18,000 iPads and implement a district wide 1 to 1 mobile learning initiative. The workshop will provide participants with lessons learned, timelines, staff engagement and training practices, important infrastructure and budgetary considerations when contemplating a mobile learning initiative, and critical steps to take when developing and executing a successful voter approved funding mechanism. Questions How do I to effectively educate my internal and external stakeholders regarding the benefits of 1:1 mobile learning? How do I establish a culture of engagement and empowerment while asking my staff to revamp their entire curriculum and integrate dynamic mobile learning techniques? What are the steps involved? Who are the professionals I need to engage? What credentials should I look for in order to successfully secure voter approval of a mobile learning initiative? Audience: The intended audience includes: K-12 school administrators and/or teachers FALOR ROOM

Addressing Student Discipline, Suspension, and Expulsion

Audience: Open MCGINNIS ROOM

Presenters: Jennifer Varrato and Lou Massicci, Regional Vice President for Voyager/Sopris Learning

Abstract: Session Description: This session will examine the key elements necessary for implementing successful intervention solutions for at risk student populations in grades pre-k through grade 12. What should districts look for when selecting a research based, data proven program? Are certain universal screening assessments better than others? How should a district use progress monitoring to guide and inform instruction? Lastly, what does an effective and comprehensive implementation plan look like that supports teachers AFTER the initial training is complete? This interactive session will not only address these questions, but will also highlight success stories from across California and the U.S. Audience: Open TOFANELLI ROOM

A Community Approach to Supporting Health and Academic Success Presenters: Shené Bowie-Onye, Executive Director of CA Healthy Kids and After School Resource Center; Asbury Jones, Manager Network for a Healthy California – African-American Campaign; Dr. Rebecca Brown, Research Coordinator at Urban Strategies Council; and Session Moderator: Heather Reed, CDE Abstract: How can communities mobilize resources to address disparity issues for African-Americans (AA) students where they live, learn, and worship? Low-income AA students are at greater risk for obesity, poor self-esteem and other health concerns that impact academic achievement. Research shows physical activity, nutrition and a coordinated approach to health leads to better academic success. Learn about sustainable, policy-based models to provide accessibility and empowerment of AA students to eat healthy and be active. Audience: Principals, Program Administrators

Presenter: Sherman R. Garnett, Coordinator San Bernardino County Abstract: Are you well versed in the world of student discipline? Regardless, this workshop is for you. Participants will be quizzed/ challenged as to their understanding and mastery of the California Education Code relative to student discipline, particularly in the areas of due process and preventive measures. This interactive

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Friday, February 22, 2013

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

SERIES IV: 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Common Core State Standards and Academic Success for Students in Alternative Schools

special education category if appropriate. If not a special education issue, the assessment results will shed light on general education steps to address these issues. Audience: Open

BEAVIS ROOM

Time Well Spent

CARR ROOM

Abstract: Participants will learn how to dramatically increase the amount of time they spend on instruction and decrease the amount of time they spend giving multiple warnings and repeated requests for misbehavior. One of the greatest misconceptions in education is that students come to school knowing how to behave. Learn how investing extra time in your students in the beginning of the year will increase the amount of time you have for instruction throughout the year.

Presenters: The Footsteps to Success Workgroup – Moreno Valley Unified School District. Kym Taylor- High School Counselor, Valley View; Micki Clowney, Director, University of California Riverside; Jacqueline Banks, Special Education Teacher, Palm Middle School; Christine Benton-Special Education Teacher, Palm Middle School; Shamish Irving, Language Arts Teacher, Palm Middle School; Audrey Butler-Special Education Teacher, Town Gate Elementary; and Darcel Cannady-Jamerson, Elementary School Counselor.

Presenter: Pamela Peters, Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, and Teacher – CDE

Audience: Open BONDI ROOM

Motivate students with educational technology today to prepare them for STEM careers of tomorrow!

Presenters: Douglas Howard, Administrator, Inglewood USD and Vinnie White, Consultant – I CAN Learn Abstract: Are your students prepared for the exciting opportunities awaiting them on the STEM career path? This session will provide Superintendents, Administrators, and Teachers with tools to successfully implement the Common Core State Standards. Closing the math achievement gap is challenging work but it can be done. Attend this session to learn about proven solutions that are available now. You will learn effective strategies to increase your students’ excitement about math while improving their self confidence. Plus, learn how to keep your Teachers motivated and goal driven. This session, sponsored by I CAN Learn Education Systems, will energize and inspire all who attend. Door prizes include graduate credit courses.

Strategies for Increasing African-American Parent Participation to Foster Student Success

Abstract: Parents are often viewed as the primary stakeholders in the schooling process since they are often the first educators of children. Research substantiates that parent involvement is a vital component to ensuring student success; therefore, schools work diligently to get parents involved. In previous years, the parent involvement was limited to the concept of mothers volunteering in the classroom (NEA, 2008); however, with the changing dynamics of family structures, budget cuts, and other economic considerations, the model for parent involvement has shifted. In today’s world, parents often work long hours, have more than one job, and participate in multiple responsibilities that may limit their school participation. Due to a variety of factors that impinge on parents, educators often criticize them for their nonparticipation or limited participation in the school environment. This workshop will identify ways that African-American parents sometimes feel alienated in the process of parent-school engagement. This workshop will also look at strategies for strengthening partnerships with and more effectively engaging African-American parents. Audience: Open

Audience: Open TOFANELLI ROOM FALOR ROOM

Decreasing Overrepresentation: An Authentic Assessment Model for African-American Students

Presenters: James Hiramoto, Ph.D., School Psychologist CDE Diagnostic Center, and Ann England, Assistant Director of the Diagnostic Center, CDE Abstract: Academic success for struggling students often ends with an assessment for special education. Given the Larry P. restrictions on the assessment of African-American students, the Diagnostic Center, Northern California has developed a comprehensive trans-disciplinary assessment process to clearly identify strengths and weaknesses and more accurately identify a

Ensuring Your School Attendance Review Board (SARB) Reduces Chronic Absence of African-American Students Presenter: David Kopperud, CDE Consultant

Abstract: To encourage best practices in reducing chronic absence, the California Department of Education has been recognizing model SARBs in the state for the last five years. While SARBs vary among districts, specific practices are common to Model SARBs. This workshop will provide guidance on making your SARB into a model that promotes early identification and intervention, reflects cultural and linguistic diversity, and links youth and their families to appropriate school/community resources. Audience: Open

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Annual

Gala

A Salute to Educational Excellence Gala Keynote Speaker

Dr. Milmon F. Harrison Dr. Milmon F. Harrison earned his doctorate in Sociology at the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1999. Since 2000 he has been a member of the faculty in the African-American & African Studies Program at the University of California, Davis, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in 1994. In addition to his other publications, Dr. Harrison is the author of Righteous Riches: the Word of Faith Movement in Contemporary African-American Religion, published by Oxford University Press. A dedicated educator at UC Davis, he teaches undergraduate and graduate level courses, such as “Introduction to African-American Culture and Society,” “Survey of Ethnicity in the US,” “Afro-Christianity and the Black Church in America,” and “Black Images in Popular Culture.” Dr. Harrison regularly receives invitations to speak to community groups, churches, and schools throughout the local Sacramento area and beyond. He is a member of a local church congregation and serves within the ministry in addition to his professional duties and other forms of service to the Sacramento and UC Davis communities. Dr. Harrison is a husband of 24 years and the father of two children. 24

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

2013

CAAASA’S SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS GALA HONOREES Dr. Darryl Adams

Dr. Darryl S. Adams, Superintendent of Schools for the Coachella Valley Unified School District, began his career as a professional musician, songwriter and music publisher. After ten years in the music business, he followed his love for music and went on to serve as a Music Teacher and Band Director, Middle School Assistant Principal, High School Assistant Principal, High School Principal, Director of Human Resources and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. He has been previously recognized as a Teacher of the Year in Los Angeles County. Dr. Adams earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Memphis, his Master of Education Administration degree from California State University, Los Angeles and his Doctoral degree from Azusa Pacific University. He is leading the district to a new level of efficiency with the building of the new CVUSD Education and Community Support Center which will allow the district to increase productivity and realize financial savings. The Center will support the community by way of a state-of-the-art Parent Resource Center, an expanded Adult Education center and a modern bus transportation division which will include shade structure for facility parking that will rely on solar panels to power the facility. Dr. Adams is now leading significant reform efforts in the Coachella Valley Unified School District. These major initiatives will move the district toward Educational Excellence.

Elvin Momon

Mr. Elvin Momon has served as Superintendent of the Victor Valley Union High School District since October 2011. During his 26 year tenure with the district he has also served in the positions of High School Counselor, Dean of Students, Principal, Senior Director of Human Resources and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Momon holds a master’s degree in counseling from Oregon State. Throughout his career, he has been a determined advocate for students through his tireless commitment to staff and student excellence through collaborative ventures with all stakeholder groups. He is focused on providing a world-class education system for students and staff that prepare them to live and thrive in a highly globally connected society. Specifically, his laser-focused approach to systemic thinking is transforming the educational community in the region as a benchmark for excellence in educational communities. His major focus area emphasizes expanding, improving, and developing new programs that will assist students in meeting the challenge of the 21st century without the need for remediation and ensuring they are college and career ready.

Darin Brawley

Compton Unified School District’s (CUSD) Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Mr. Darin Brawley as the District’s new Superintendent on Tuesday, August 28, 2012. Prior to his appointment in Compton, Brawley served in the Adelanto School District as Deputy Superintendent of Student Learning and later as Superintendent for three years, where he presided over the educational progress of students in Grades K-8. Brawley was responsible for exiting five schools from program improvement. In addition to this, he was instrumental in several schools receiving Title I Performing Schools recognition and California Distinguished School Awards. Brawley’s progression in education includes: high school science teacher, middle school assistant principal, both elementary and middle school principal, Director of Human Resources, Executive Director of Human Resources, and Deputy Superintendent of Student Learning and Superintendent. Concerning his current role, he describes it as “a welcome opportunity to work collaboratively with our community of stakeholders.” He is looking forward to forging community partnerships to accomplish the core mission of student achievement and learning.

Joseph Jones

Joseph Jones serves as Assistant Executive Director of Member Services and Professional Standards with the Association of California School Administrators (ASCA), with whom he has worked for the past 16 years. In this role, he assists California superintendents and administrators with due process, contract development, legal problems, conflict resolution, interest-based bargaining, site-based decision making, and sexual harassment workshops. He also serves as ACSA’s liaison to numerous state and national associations and boards. His educational experience includes thirty-five years in public schools, pre-college and the university levels as classroom teacher, middle school counselor, middle and high school assistant principal, and high school principal. Jones has also served as a part-time instructor of graduate students in teacher education and school administration, and as a nationally distinguished lecturer. California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

2013

CAAASA’S SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS GALA HONOREES Dr. Jacqueline Landrum Sanderlin

Dr. Sanderlin attended Cal State University Dominguez Hills, Norfolk State University and Pepperdine University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Master of Arts in Special Education, and two Doctorate Degrees: one in Ministry and one in Education, Leadership, Administration and Policy. She began as a paraprofessional and then a special education teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District and in the Compton Unified School District. Later she was promoted to a Curriculum Specialist where she provided demonstration lessons and professional development in English Language Arts. She was also an assistant principal of Walton Middle school and then principal of Abraham Lincoln Elementary School. Dr. Sanderlin is currently an Elementary School Principal at Stephen C. Foster Elementary School where she has acquired a total to 73 partnerships. Her greatest accomplishment was getting Foster adopted by William Morris Endeavor Entertainment Talent Agency (WME) of Beverly Hills. Many, many partnerships came to Jackie’s doorstep because of WME. They provided additional funding, staffing, playground equipment, a 9-hole putting green, new staff lounge, new professional development meeting room, painting of the school, murals, new bathrooms, music program, Shakespeare program, dance and theater programs, glee club, instruments, technology, and the list goes on and on! Most importantly, the Academic Performance Index has climbed from 722 to 791 in 3 years under her watch! Dr. Sanderlin’s goal is to reach 800+ this year and soon become a California Distinguished School.

Dr. Ron Williams

Dr. Ron Williams is the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for the Victor Valley Union High School District (VVUHSD) where he provides system-wide leadership for a unified approach to the development and implementation of rigorous curriculum programs, assessments, instructional resources, and prepares all students to learn without limits and to meet or exceed local, state, and federal assessment requirements. Prior to VVUHSD, he facilitated multiple high-profile programs for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) providing leadership in the identification, design, dissemination, implementation, and evaluation of promising/ best practices in secondary school reform. In addition, he facilitated the California Distinguish School Program and National Blue Ribbon School Program for the county; Partnership for Advancing Student Success P-16 Council; County Data Consortium, data team comprised of K-12 Directors of Testing and researchers from institutions for higher; Cal-PASS Regional Coordinator for Professional Learning Councils—English and math teacher, and counselors across K-12, community college, and the university. Prior to arriving to SBCSS, he served as Director of Testing/Evaluation and Compensatory Education, principal, assistant principals, and teacher in multiple districts within the state. Dr. Williams received his teaching credential and undergraduate degree in English, and his master’s and doctorate degrees in Educational Leadership.

Cheryl P. Hildreth

Cheryl P. Hildreth is the Instructional Area Superintendent of the West Region, Los Angeles Unified School District. Appointed to this position in July 2012, she has already demonstrated outstanding leadership and strategic planning to continue the focus of improving instructional outcomes for students. She is committed to working with school leaders to ensure there is a “laser-like” focus on strong instructional practices that will accelerate the level of student achievement for all students. She previously served as Director, Secondary Schools, Local District 1, LAUSD; Principal at Bancroft Middle School; Secondary Math Coordinator, Local District 4; and Assistant Principal of Instruction at Franklin High School and John Burroughs Middle School. Her commitment to instructional excellence at all levels, expert preparation of students for higher education and successful life experiences, are well-grounded and evident in all of her work and accomplishments since first becoming a member of this noble profession. A Los Angeles native, Cheryl was educated in the public schools of Los Angeles. She earned her Bachelor’s from Howard University and M.A. in Educational Administration, from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She has continued her educational growth by completing several advanced university courses in education.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

2013

CAAASA’S SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS GALA HONOREES Congressman Robert C. Scott

Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott is currently serving his eleventh term in Congress. Prior to serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Scott served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1978 to 1983 and in the Senate of Virginia from 1983 to 1993. During his 15-year tenure in the Virginia General Assembly, Rep. Scott successfully sponsored laws that are critical to Virginians in healthcare, education, employment, economic development, crime prevention, social services and consumer protection. His legislative successes included laws that improved healthcare benefits for women, infants and children, increased the Virginia minimum wage and created the Governor’s Employment and Training Council. He also sponsored the Neighborhood Assistance Act, which provides tax credits to businesses for donations made to approved social service and crime prevention programs. Rep. Scott currently serves on the Committee on the Judiciary, where he is the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations and a member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice. Rep. Scott also serves on the Committee on Education and the Workforce where he is a member of the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education and the Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions.

State Superintendent Tom Torlakson

Superintendent Tom Torlakson is a native of San Francisco. He is a former Assemblymember and served as a Merchant Marine during the Vietnam War. He earned the Bachelor of Arts in History in 1971, a Life Secondary Teaching Credential, and the Master in Education from UC-Berkeley. Former Assemblymember Torlakson represented California’s 11th Assembly District. He was elected on November 4, 2008 to a final term as a member of the California State Assembly. His career in public service began as a science teacher in 1972. He was elected to the Antioch City Council in 1978, and then served on the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors for 16 years. Previously, he served in the California State Senate from 2000-2008 and the State Assembly from 1996-2000. While a member of the State Senate, he ended his term as the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Also, he chaired the Senate Majority Caucus, Senate Transportation and Housing Committee, and Senate Local Government Committee. Additionally, he served as a member of the Education Committee and chaired the Senate Select Committee on Schools and Community. He is the Chair and Founder of the California Task Force on Youth and Workplace Wellness, a group seeking to raise the profile of health and fitness in the public schools and in the workplace. Superintendent Torlakson has two adult daughters, Tiffany Margulici and Tamara Torlakson.

Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud, Romo Law Firm

Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo is the preeminent law firm providing legal advice and representation to the California education community for over 30 years. With more than 140 attorneys and seven strategic locations throughout California, AALRR serves both public and private entities providing practical legal solutions in the areas of general education, special education, employment, labor, construction, real estate, general business and business litigation, corporate, taxation, bankruptcy, and immigration. They have been recognized for their longstanding commitment to hiring and keeping diverse professionals who reflect the demographics of the communities we serve. In September 2012, California Lawyer Magazine named AALRR as the Most Diverse Large Firm in California by percentage of equity partners. Their attorneys are also active in charitable and community matters.

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Micah Ali

Micah Ali was elected to the Compton Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees in 2007 and re-elected in 2011. In addition to serving as President of the CUSD Board of Trustees, he also serves as President of the L.A. County School Trustees Association. His thoughtful, responsible and outside-the-box approach to solving the difficult challenges facing California’s urban school districts is a hallmark of Micah’s tenure as a CUSD Board Member. A product of Compton schools, he received a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University Dominguez Hills. As a young man, Micah earned a reputation as a champion of both students’ rights and unwavering advocate for labor unions. Prior to serving on the School Board, as the classified employees’ union’s appointee, he served as Chairman of the Compton Community College District Personnel Commission (2003-2006) and also as Vice Chairman of the CUSD Personnel Commission (2006-2007). Micah earned state-wide recognition and distinction as an ardent guardian of California’s Merit System, which ensures employees are hired in accordance with Personnel Commission Rules and Merit System Law. His interest in governmental affairs and public policy developed as a teen, when he was appointed to the Compton Youth Commission. Later, while serving as a staff liaison with the Compton City Council, he developed an understanding of policy formulation and its impact on the quality of life. Subsequently, he worked with Compton’s Community Redevelopment Agency, where he was responsible for managing various successful projects. Micah worked with the late Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald (D-37th), as a Congressional Fellow in Washington, DC. He has worked with several California Democrats, including Compton City Councilwoman Delores Zurita and Assemblyman Mervyn M. Dymally.

Dr. Mary Murray Autry

Dr. Mary Murray Autry has worked as an Education Programs Consultant at the California Department of Education (CDE) in elementary education and recently in adult education. As a consultant, Dr. Autry provided technical support for transitional kindergarten through grade 5 and adult education to parents, teachers, and administrators she assisted with the CDE publication “Grade Level Curriculum,” which compares the California 1997 standards to the CCSS. Prior to her position at CDE, she was an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Arlington and at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois she taught in the Houston and Indianapolis public schools prior to obtaining a Ph.D. from Indiana University in Bloomington, Illinois. During her career, Dr. Autry served as a school advisory board member, lead professor for several courses, coordinated professional development schools for teacher education majors, served as the Illinois Vice President for the Association for Childhood Education International, presented at major education conferences, and published research in the areas of school readiness, teacher education assessment, and school integration.

Jacqueline Banks

Teacher-Special Education, Palm Middle School, Mentor UCAP-TASK (Ujima Council At Palm -Teachers And Students Konnect), MVEA Union Representative Canyon Springs, Parent, School Site Council, Canyon Springs Baseball Booster Executive Board

Adam Bar

Adam Bar and his team of trusted advisors with New York Life Insurance Company are committed to developing strong, long-term relationships built on integrity. We are a top provider of estate, business, executive, and personal planning for medium to large client accounts, focusing on the highest level of service in retirement planning, asset protection, employee benefits, reducing fees and administrative costs for employers and adding flexibility to employees. Adam’s experience with business management, financial structure and organization is extensive. Adam successfully owned HTT International and Business Consulting International, operating 20 locations across the East Coast. He has a deep understanding of the risk verses reward, business structure and various financial instruments. Adam is a Qualifying Member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for 2013 and specializes in Personal Planning, Business Planning, Asset Protection, Estate Conservation, Life Insurance, Retirement Plans, Mutual Funds, Long Term Care, Annuities

Christine Benton

Teacher-Special Education, Palm Middle School, Mentor UCAP-TASK (Ujima Council At Palm -Teachers And Students Konnect), Vista Del Lago parent

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Dr. Ramona E. Bishop

Dr. Ramona E. Bishop serves as the Superintendent of the Vallejo Unified School District. Prior to her position in Vallejo she served as Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Academic Achievement with the Twin Rivers Unified School District. She holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Pacific, Stockton; a Master of Science Degree in Educational Leadership from California State University, Hayward, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of California at Berkeley. Dr. Bishop served as Superintendent of the Del Paso Heights School District, Sacramento, Director III Multilingual/Multicultural Equity, Access and Achievements in Sacramento City Unified School District, Principal and in a dual role as Associate Superintendent of Curriculum/Instruction and Principal of Anna Yates Elementary School, Emery Unified School District.

Michelle Bowers

Dr. Michele Bowers has been an educator for more than 18 years and an administrator in the Lancaster School District for the past seven years. Her diverse experience includes classroom teacher (both elementary and middle school), administrative intern, Assistant Principal, Principal (both elementary and middle school), Director of Teaching and Learning, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and Deputy Superintendent. She was named Superintendent in July 2012. Dr. Bowers is an active member of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), the California Association of African-American School Administrators (CAAASA), the Association of School and Curriculum Development (ASCD), American Association of School Administrators (AASA) and served as a Board member for the California Institute of School Improvement (CISI). Presently, she is also a member of the Antelope Valley Superintendents’ Association. Community activities include being a member of Lancaster West Rotary, Antelope Valley Board of Trade and Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Bowers received her Bachelor of Science degree from Regents University in New York, a teaching credential from California State University Northridge, an Administrative Services credential and a Master’s in Educational Administration from California State University Bakersfield, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California where she was recognized as a Clark Scholar for her research in Elementary Literacy. Additionally, Dr. Bowers has completed two professional training programs offered by ACSA, one in Personnel and one in Business. Before entering education, Dr. Bowers worked in sales and management in private industry for close to 20 years where she gained invaluable knowledge and expertise in effective business practices, marketing, personnel management, budget and finance.

Dr. Shene’ Bowie-Onye

Dr. Shene’ Bowie-Onye is the Executive Director of the California Healthy Kids and After School Resource Centers with the Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE). Guided by the Health Framework and the Social Ecological Model, the Centers are administered for the California Departments of Education and Public Health to provide a one-stop information and technical assistance source that enables educators to identify researchbased resources that meet local academic and health instructional needs. Dr. Bowie-Onye has more than 15 years of designing, implementing and evaluating programs and services designed to meet the health education and communication needs of public, private, and faith-based organizations, schools; community groups, and individuals. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Sport Science and Exercise Physiology from the University of the Pacific; a Masters of Public Health (Maternal and child Health) from George Washington University, and an Ed.D. of Public Health (Health Education) from Loma Linda University.

Seth Bramble

Seth Bramble serves as a legislative advocate for the California Teachers Association (CTA), committed to improving the conditions of teaching and learning. His expertise in online learning, charter schools, health care, collective bargaining, and civil rights in education, has directed his advocacy. He joined CTA in 2006 as a Human Rights Consultant in the greater Los Angeles area, where he served as a resource for staff and more than 300,000 members (school teachers, school nurses, school counselors, school librarians, etc.) on issues related to human and civil rights. Seth received a bachelor’s degree in American Studies from the University of California at Santa Cruz, and a master’s degree in Education, along with a CLAD multiple subject teaching credential from San Jose State University, with emphasis on curriculum and instruction. For more than five years, he taught 6th grade in traditional public schools in San Jose. Seth was the elected President of the Mount Pleasant Education Association, and also served as Executive Director for the Sacramento City Teachers Association. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Health Access, helping move agendas to provide quality and affordable healthcare for all. Seth also serves on the Board of Directors for the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, whose mission is to advance racial and economic justice to ensure dignity and opportunity for low-income people and people of color.

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Audrey Butler

Teacher, Special Education, TownGate Elementary, BTSA Teacher, Grade Level Leader, Administrative Designee, School Site Council Member, African-American Advisory Council Member, MVEA Union Representative

Dr. Dennis Byas

Dr. Dennis Byas has served as Superintendent of the San Lorenzo Unified School District since 2007. Prior to his current assignment, he served for nearly eight years as Superintendent of the Colton Joint Unified School District, which enjoyed seven consecutive years of improved test scores and increased college attendance rates under his leadership. Dr. Byas has taught at various colleges and universities for more than 17 years. He received a B.A. in Economics from California State University at San Bernardino and both Master of Arts and Master of Business Administration Degrees at Claremont Graduate School-Peter F. Drucker Management Center. He is also a 2005 graduate of the Eli Broad Center’s Superintendent Academy and is one of fewer than 100 Broad Fellows in the Nation.

Brett Byers

Brett Byers serves as a Managing Director for The Hawkins Company. Her eight year tenure of human resources, executive recruiting, career coaching and professional development experience has afforded her the skills and capability to effectively connect executive leaders and affect significant change within private and public organizations. In addition to her executive search consulting experience, Ms. Byers also serves as the Programs, Marketing and Communications Director for a one of the oldest ethnic trade associations, where she creates and implements programs and provides resources to facilitate the growth, development, and capacity building of African-American owned businesses. Ms. Byers is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business. She is actively involved with recruiting students of color for the university and continues to participate in developing the talent that comes through the INROADS program by facilitating career and professional development workshops and trainings.

Darcel Cannady-Jamerson

School Counselor - Elementary, Sunnymead and Sugar Hill Academic Success Team Coordinator, District Evaluation Committee Member, MVEA Counselor Representative, LEA Collaborative Member

Dr. Diana Dumetz Carry

Dr. Diana Carry is the National Executive Consultant of School Improvement for ETA Hand2Mind. She holds a doctorate in Curriculum Instruction from Loyola University of Chicago, a Masters Degree in Administration and Supervision from Indiana University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from Northern Illinois University. Prior to her position with ETA, Dr. Carry served as Chief Academic Officer in Clayton County, Georgia, where her most notable accomplishment was assisting the district in regaining state accreditation withdrawn by the state prior to her arrival. Before moving to Georgia, she held a number of positions including special education teacher, gifted and talented education teacher, and general education in Chicago, San Antonio, South Bend, Alexandria, and Boston. In addition, she served as an instructional coach, assistant principal, and Headmaster of a charter school. She also held administrative positions as a principal in Washington, D.C., and as both Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Executive Director of Professional Learning in the Chicago Public Schools.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Dr. Harold L. Cebrun, Sr.

Dr. Harold Cebrun, Sr., Superintendent of the Rialto Unified School District (RUSD) brings more than three decades of Public Education experience and expertise to more than 27,000 students and more than 2,600 RUSD staff. A Texas native and stand-out student athlete of famed Jack Yates High School, he attended several colleges, including the University of Nebraska and California State University, Los Angeles (B.S.); USC and Azusa Pacific University (M.A).; and Pepperdine University, Argosy University, and Columbia Pacific University (Ed.D. and Ph.D.). Later, he was selected as the first African-American administrator to be employed by the California Interscholastic Federation (C.I.F.). During his 40 years in Public Education, Dr. Cebrun worked his way up to superintendent, serving in the positions of: elementary, junior and high school teacher, high school counselor, assistant principal, principal, basketball and baseball coach and assistant football coach, activities and athletic director, director, assistant superintendent, area superintendent and superintendent.

Micki Clowney

University Director, University of California Riverside, Parent Advocate, Vista Heights Parent, African-American Advisory Council, GEAR-Up Liaison, Treasurer of the United Black Student Unions of Southern California, S.A.T. Preparation Consultant

Dr. Carole A. Cobb

Dr. Carole A. Cobb is an educational training consultant and the Executive Director of Sankofa Education Alliance, a non-profit organization devoted to “creating healthy learning and living environments for children to excel, families to thrive, and communities to flourish.” Dr. Cobb has a successful 25-year track record of assisting schools and school districts, civic and community organizations, and faith-based institutions operate from their strengths as they shape and reshape their educational practices in order to eliminate disparities in educational outcomes for African-Americans and other underserved students. She is a certified facilitator in culturally and linguistically responsive educationally practices, Response to Instruction & Intervention (RtI2) and coalition building. Dr. Cobb has served as a collaborative consultant with the California Department of Education and Equity Alliance on the development of an online statewide Culturally Responsive Professional Development Module; Los Angeles USD’s PreK-12 Administrative Coordinator for Standard English Learners; teacher and administrator (MI); and a university professor in teacher education (KY). She received her BS in Criminal Justice Education from Kentucky State University, and both her M.Ed. in Educational Administration & Leadership and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a minor in Business Management from Wayne State University.

Ray Culberson

Ray Culberson is the Director of Youth Services for San Bernardino Unified School District, the 6th largest district in the state of California. He holds an MBA in Marketing, an MA in Political Science and MA in Educational Administration, a Single-Subject teaching credential, and an Administrative Credential in education. He also holds a BA in Political Science and a BA in Rhetoric (persuasive communication) from the University of California, Berkeley. Ray has the unique ability to utilize humor, dramatic sketches, philosophical concepts, direct street knowledge, management theories and business philosophies, integrating them into a solid presentation that ensures each participant leaves with a clear understanding of the concepts presented.

Michael Dennis

Michael Dennis is the author/CEO of Teach Power, Inc. He has been a public school educator in Los Angeles, for more than twenty years, both as a teacher and adminstrator. As an educator, he has always placed great emphasis on respecting other cultures and points of view. He has written several books for teens and pre-teens emphasizing self-respect, self–determination, and personal responsibility. He has developed a research-based, culturally relevant and responsive curriculum that enhances student academically, socially and develops their character, and reconnects them positively to their community through a rite of passage process. He has presented at state, local, and national conferences on promoting positive advancement for all students including those most underserved (AfricanAmerican & Latino students).

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Pam Derby

Pam Derby, SPHR, has over 17 years of experience in managing public relations and client services in both the public and private sector. Since joining CPS HR Executive Search in 2003, she has managed a wide range of recruitments for state, city, county, non-profit, and association executives including Executive Directors for the California Board of Equalization, First 5 California and California’s new Health Benefit Exchange. Prior to joining CPS HR , Ms. Derby served as the aide to the Yuba County Board of Supervisors. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, Sacramento Area Human Resources Association, and Local Women in Government. Ms. Derby is currently conducting the Superintendent recruitment for the Twin Rivers Unified School District located in Sacramento.

Mya Dobson

Mya Dobson is a teacher at heart. The veteran Los Angeles educator who used to teach the study of living things now helps individuals, families and business owners create wealth, protect their assets and build legacies using tax-free money. Inspired by witnessing family and friends lose years of investments and retirement dreams after the 2008 Great Recession, Mya joined New York Life as a Financial Advisor to help people learn how to guarantee their retirement and secure their financial future. Mya works and lives in Los Angeles but also travels the country inspiring people to take their financial planning to the next level. Mya is passionate about showing AfricanAmericans how other cultures use life insurance to protect income and build multigenerational wealth. She understands that the AfricanAmerican community is worth more than it realizes and it is time to begin protecting human capital and changing the financial landscape for future generations. Mya specializes in Personal Planning, Business Planning, Asset Protection, Estate Conservation, Life Insurance, Retirement Plans, Long Term Care and Annuities.

Dr. Will Ector, Jr.

Dr. Will Ector, Jr. was born and raised in Blythe. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science while attending college on a football scholarship. He later obtained his Master’s degree from San Jose State University. Ector returned to his home town after graduation and taught math and physical education at Blythe Junior High School from 1974 through 1980. He moved to San Jose in the fall of 1980 and has lived there for more than 30 years. Ector proved to be very successful as an elementary school principal and was honored at the White House in 1988 when his Title I school, Katherine R. Smith Elementary, was selected as a National Distinguished School. He has since been principal of two other elementary schools, which were recognized as National Blue Ribbon schools. Ector left to take on the duties of director of human resources for the Evergreen School District. He was appointed as superintendent for the Berryessa Union School District in July of 2011.

Ann England

Ann England is the Assistant Director of the Diagnostic Center, Northern California, CDE, and Co-Chair of/ and contributor to: “Best Practice Guidelines for the Assessment of African-American Students: Language and Communication/Cognitive Processes.” Ann is also the Project Manager of three special projects to pilot this authentic assessment model in three Northern California school districts. She is a credentialed school administrator and also holds an M.A. in Communicative Disorders, a Clinical Rehabilitative Services Credential, Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech and Language (CCC-SLP) and is licensed by the State of California Speech-Language Pathology Board. She has extensive experience in assessing and educating students with special needs and is a member of multiple national, state and local professional organizations including the American Speech-Language Hearing Association, California Speech-Language Hearing Association, San Mateo County Speech-Language Hearing Association, TASH, and PENT (Positive Environment, Network of Trainers).

Dr. Rex Fortune

Dr. Rex Fortune is the Founder and Executive Director of Project Pipeline, a Teacher Alternative Certification and Hiring program headquartered in Sacramento, California. He retired in July 2003 from Center Unified School District, where he served as Superintendent for fifteen years. Among his proudest accomplishments while there is a local general obligation bond for the Central District for $59 million for the construction of new facilities, where teachers and students use state-of-the-art technology to enhance learning. Prior to Center, Dr. Fortune was Superintendent of the Inglewood Unified School District, as well as the Associate Superintendent of Public Instruction for the California State Department of Education where his program responsibilities ranged from State Director of Compensatory Education to Manager of Gifted and Talented Education. He also served as the State Superintendent’s representative to State Board Committees responsible for Vocational Education and Equity Education Opportunities. Dr. Fortune co-authored a book based on research conducted in four California school districts called “Leadership on Purpose: Promising Practices for African-American and Hispanic Students”. He also produced the DVD “Leadership on Purpose”.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Dr. Ronald Fortune

Dr. Ronald Fortune is the COO of Level Playing Field Institute. He also serves as the Co-Founder and Chairman of Education.com., the fastest growing web site in the parenting and educational sectors. Ron is the former CEO of Computer Curriculum Corporation (CCC), a position he held for ten years. Under his leadership, the company became the largest educational online learning company in the United States He has served as a member of California’s Information Technology Council and as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Software and Information Industry Association. Ron served as President of the CEO Forum, a Washington, DC-based organization, advocating the use of technology in schools. He also served on the National Board for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education for two years. In the early days of Ron’s career, he was also a high school teacher, founder of an alternative school, and a federal program director. Recently, Ron was named as one of the 50 Most Important African-Americans in Technology (2010). Dr. Fortune holds a Ph.D. in education, an MBA, and a B.A. all from the University of California, Berkeley.

Jose Franco

Jose Franco is Senior Staff for the Region IX Equity Assistance Center, and is Co-Director of the Math Pathways & Pitfalls program to improve students' mathematics achievement and academic language development. Prior to WestEd, Franco directed the EQUALS Program at the University of California, Berkeley. Franco was a K-6 bilingual teacher. He has presented on family involvement, equity, mathematics education, and second language acquisition at the local, state, national, and international levels. His publications include Thoughts and Deeds: Equity in Mathematics and Science, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science; Changing the Faces of Mathematics: Perspectives on Latinos, published by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics; and Advocating for Equity and Diversity Within the Context of Standards-Based Reform, published by the NCTM Standards Impact Research Group. He received a BA in elementary education from Metropolitan State College in Denver, and an MA in mathematics education from San Francisco State University.

Seth Galanter

Seth Galanter is the Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights in the Department of Education. Seth started his legal career at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he worked in the Civil Rights Division. Seth later moved into private practice at Morrison and Foerster, where he was in the Appellate Practice Group. During his time there, Seth argued two cases in the U.S. Supreme Court. Seth was also named Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year during this time by the Washington DC Bar. He joined the Department of Education in 2011.

Katherine Gales

Katherine Gales has been serving as a California civil service employee since 1987. She held the position of Audit Secretary for the California Department of General Services, Audit Section in 1988 providing office administrative duties and responsibilities in the areas of technology, personnel, budgets, purchasing and timekeeping. Katherine began her career with CDE in 1997 as the Appointments Secretary and Travel Coordinator for the California State Board of Education during Governor Wilson and State Superintendent Eastin’s administrations. In 2003, she served as Executive Secretary for State Superintendent O’Connell’s administration in the School Improvement Division, while providing lead administrative support to the Elementary, Middle and High School Offices, Intervention Assistance Office, High Priority Schools Office, and the District & School Improvement Office. In 2007, Katherine began serving as the Executive Assistant for the Student Support and Special Services Branch during O’Connell’s administration, which is now under the administration of State Superintendent Tom Torlakson. Gales earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree and a Masters of Management degree from the University of Phoenix.

Sherman Garnett

Sherman Garnett is the Coordinator for Child Welfare/Attendance in the office of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Garnett is a thirty-five year veteran educator who has been a teacher, coach, dean, assistant principal, and principal at both the comprehensive and alternative school level. He is currently an adjunct faculty member in the area of school law and teacher assessment training at Chapman University, Brandman University, and Cal State San Bernardino for the past thirteen years. Mr. Garnett is the current past President of the California Association of Supervisors of Child Welfare and Attendance Southern Section (CASCWA).

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Paul Gothold

Paul Gothold serves as Deputy Superintendent for the Lynwood Unified School District (LUSD). For more than 18 years, he has served as a public educator, both in alternative and comprehensive high school programs. He began his career as a teacher with the Los Angeles County Office of Education, working with at-risk youth in a self-contained setting at Alhambra High School. Later, he became a BTSA Mentor Teacher and Assessor, authored various curricula, and conducted numerous trainings in school-to-career, differentiated strategies, and integrating technology with content standards. He then served as an Assistant Principal, High School Principal, Assistant Director, Secondary Schools, and Director of Secondary Schools at Montebello Unified School District. In July of 2010, he was appointed as Chief Academic Officer with LUSD. While serving in Lynwood, Gothold installed a comprehensive professional development plan for all teachers and administrators to improve the district’s instructional program. As a result, LUSD experienced the single largest API gain for any comprehensive, K-12 district in California with more than 7,000 students. Gothold has also served as an adjunct professor at Whittier College, instructing aspiring teachers and graduate students in the credentialing program.

Dr. Cindy Guilluame

Dr. Cindy K. Guillaume, Dean for the School of Education at North Central University, earned her Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and both her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education/Special Education and Master of Education Degree from Arizona State University. She holds both teaching and administrative certifications. She has extensive experience at all educational levels holding high level academic positions in Higher Education, to include leading Schools/Colleges of Education through accreditations. Dr. Guillaume served on the Governor’s Child Safety Taskforce in 2011. She remains active in the education community with conference presentations and as a member of key educational organizations. In addition to her passion toward education in general, Dr. Guillaume’s wealth of experience as Dean at larger traditional and non-traditional educational institutions and knowledge of delivering quality education via an online platform are core attributes to North Central’s Mission, Vision, and Values.

Katrina Hasan Hamilton

Katrina Hasan Hamilton currently works in the educational technology industry as a Regional Director of District Partnerships for Wireless Generation, Inc. With over 15 years of education and writing experience, she understands the needs and concerns of parents, teachers, administrators and districts regarding engaging curriculum and technology for students in grades K-16. Katrina has presented for CAAASA on How to Effectively Transition to Common Core Standards and for the College Board’s Dream Deferred Conference on How Critical Writing Strategies can Raise African-American Students’ Academic Achievement in High School and Effectively Prepare Them for Success in College. Additionally, she has written several short stories and articles, some of which were published in the Los Angeles Times, Muslim Journal, and Los Angeles Sentinel. Katrina was a college lecturer, Supervisor of Education for Teachers at UCLA and directed M & I Curriculum, which provided educational consulting to teachers and parents.

Williams Hawkins

William Hawkins is the Founder and President of The Hawkins Company, a retained national executive search firm with offices in Southern and Northern California. Established in 1984, the company works with major public, private, educational and nonprofit organizations to recruit senior level executives. Under his leadership, The Hawkins Company has completed over 700 executive searches. Bill has over thirty (30) years of senior level executive recruiting experience. Prior to establishing The Hawkins Company, he spent eight (8) years as a senior member of the world’s largest executive search firm, Korn Ferry International. He conducted, managed and participated in over 300 executive searches nationally as a member of the firm’s financial services and real estate practices. He subsequently was a major contributor to firm’s establishment of an entertainment practice. Bill has been quoted by The Wall Street Journal on diversity recruiting and has been listed in Black Enterprise magazine as one of the top African-American owned search firms in the country. Bill is a graduate of Howard University in Washington, D.C. and holds membership in numerous community, business and professional organizations.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Dr. James Hiramoto

Dr. James Hiramoto attended UC Berkeley where he earned both his MA/PhD. He has 15-plus years of experience as a school psychologist. He served as a school board member for four years. He advises and provides trainings for administrators, teachers, special education specialist and staff. He has 8+ years of experience as a university professor and director at the Masters and Doctoral levels. His areas of expertise include: cognitive ability, neuropsychological, alternative and culturally responsive assessment; crisis planning, management and intervention; research methodology and statistics; program evaluation; consultation and special education law. The last four years, he has worked for the Diagnostic Center, Northern California, CDE and contributes to, presents, and conducts districtwide training on the “Best Practice Guidelines for the Assessment of African-American Students: Cognitive Processes.” He is listed in the “Acknowledgement” of the Woodcock Johnson Third Edition under “some of the most respected professionals in psychology and special education.”

Douglas Howard

Douglas Howard is a veteran administrator who has provided quality systems leadership skills enabling schools to establish and predictably meet aggressive progress goals. He has a proven track record of succeeding in environments where others have failed. His teams have done remarkable work positively redirecting the course of urban schools. Mr. Howard has been highly recognized and awarded by his district and community for his dedication and successful work changing the future for our urban youth.

Kathy Hurley

Kathy Hurley, Executive Vice President, Education Alliances, for the Pearson Foundation, is a 40+ year veteran of the education industry, and has been with the Foundation for four years as a member of the Executive team. Kathy’s wealth of knowledge both in publishing and technology has aided the Foundation with its work in promoting literacy and global recognition. Throughout her career in the education industry Hurley has also served in top executive positions in both publishing and technology companies. She currently serves on several key industry and education advisory boards and has been at the forefront in leading the charge for 21st century skills as Past Chairman of the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21). She most recently was invited to join the Advisory Board for the SREB/iNACOL National Online Teacher of the Year award program and the inaugural Building a Grad Nation Summit Steering Committee. Her work with the philanthropic arm of Pearson, the Foundation, has taken Hurley around the world and into various countries where Pearson has a strong presence renewing her commitment to the need for new and innovative ways to help children learn. In addition, Hurley has received various awards for her service in the industry.

Shamish Irving

Language Arts Teacher, Palm Middle School, Reading Specialist, Mentor UCAP-TASK (Ujima Council At Palm -Teachers And Students Konnect)

Linda Jones

Linda Jones currently serves as President of the Westside Union School Board, a K-8 district located in northern Los Angeles county serving approximately 8,600 students. As a tireless advocate for our schools, she has used her seat on the Board to fight for higher standards, greater accountability and a renewed dedication to improving our children’s future through a quality education. A former licensed vocational nurse, Linda has worked as a special education teacher for the last 16 years. She is a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership and an active member of several civic organizations including CAAASA, Antelope Valley School Boards Association, founder and past President of the High Desert Alliance of Black School Educators, and former vice president of the CA Coalition of Black School Board members.

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Michelle Jordan-Faucett

Dr. Michelle Jordan-Faucett has been in public school education for over 33 years. Her initial nine years of teaching was in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. For the past 24 years, she has been dedicated to the Vallejo City Unified School District, in Vallejo, California, as a middle and high school teacher and counselor; middle school Instruction Reform Administrator; and for the past three years, a middle school principal at Franklin Middle School, a 2012 GEAR UP Grant awarded school. It was one of 48 selected amongst 100 - plus applicants in California. Franklin Middle utilizes P.E.E.R.R. (Purpose, Environment, Engagement, Rigor, Results) strategies to drive rigor instruction and PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Support) practices to promote a positive and safe school environment.. Franklin Middle School is proud to have twenty two 6-8th grade female students participating in the national organization Emerging Young Leaders (EYL).

Dr. George King

Dr. George King is the principal consultant to the Speaker’s Office for the California State Assembly. With extensive experience in management and consulting, he has also served as President and CEO of KAM Management and Consulting Services; “Connections Project” Consultant for the California Department of Education; Special Assistant to the Speaker for the California State Legislature; Senior Program Associate in the Curriculum Resources Group for the Institute for Services to Education in Washington, D.C.; and several positions as professor and assistant professor at prestigious universities across the country. A published author, Dr. King has served as director for in-service training institutes to support education agencies and community groups. He has also served as a guest speaker for the National Education Association (NEA), and numerous school districts, colleges, universities, and professional associations throughout the United States.

Dr. Charlie Mae Knight

Dr. Knight has dedicated her career to ensuring the educational success of generations of children. Dr. Knight is known for her commitment to students and their families. She is also known for her tremendous energy and her inspirational leadership. She has said, “You have to create a climate that suggests success is imminent.” In her years in California, Dr. Knight has served as Associate Superintendent, California State Department of Education, Trustee of Compton Community College, and Superintendent of Lynwood Unified School District and served 17 years as Superintendent of Ravenswood City School District. In Ravenswood, Dr. Knight transformed the education offered to students by bringing the district back from the brink of bankruptcy, initiating innovative programs, generating private and public support for programs and restoring public confidence in the district’s ability to educate its children. Dr. Charlie Mae Knight has championed the cause of African-American leadership convening the Annual Multicultural Education Conference in Monterey, California, the California Education Summits in Sacramento, California, and the Urban Institutes in Santa Clara, California. She was also a Charter Member of the California Association of Compensatory Education (CACE), President of Region III 1975-77, and President of CACE 1978, She directed college summer training Institutes for teachers of the disadvantaged and administered tutorial programs for minorities for the University of California. Dr Knight is the proud founder of CAAASA and her legacy to increase African-American leadership lives on today.

Adrienne Konigar-Macklin, Esq.

Adrienne Konigar-Macklin, Esq.,is a member of the Pomona Unified School District Board of Education, serving in her second term. She has over 24 years of experience as a public interest attorney representing public agencies, including cities and other businesses, in the areas of workers compensation, labor and employment and employee relations. She is a trainer and mediator on collective bargaining, certified in alternative dispute resolution and has been recognized for her knowledge of unemployment and school law. She is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine, Dartmouth College and the University of California, Hasting College of Law. She is a member of the State Bar of California and admitted to practice in the United States District Court, Central District of California and the United States Supreme Court. She has served on various boards and committees involving education, business, religion and employment. She also served as a Judge Pro Tem in the Los Angeles County Superior Courts and in the San Bernardino County Courts for over 15 years.

David Kopperud

David Kopperud has served as the State Chairman of the School Attendance Review Board (SARB) at the California Department of Education (CDE) for the last 10 years, and has provided technical assistance in the SARB process throughout his 12 years at the CDE. In addition, Kopperud chairs the Student Mental Health Policy Workgroup (SMHPW), and is working with the group to encourage all SARBs to include a mental health representative. Previously, Kopperud worked in Child Welfare and Attendance programs in the Hemet Unified School District, Washington Unified School District in West Sacramento, Fontana Unified School District, and taught English at Brawley Union High School in Imperial County, where he first discovered the critical need for regular school attendance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature from Claremont McKenna College and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of San Francisco.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte

Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte has served the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) as the elected Board Member for Board District 1 since 2003. A tireless advocate for children, she is vocal on a number of education-related issues, including “equal access for all children” and “education as a civil right.” An experienced educator, she served as a teacher, counselor, principal and administrator with LAUSD for more than 25 years, prior to her election. LaMotte earned a B.A. from Southern University and an M.Ed.from Louisiana State University, where she was also the first African-American woman to serve as visiting professor in the undergraduate school of education. LaMotte has served as President of the Los Angeles Council of Black Administrators (COBA); Los Angeles Chapter; President of the Assault on Illiteracy Program and as a volunteer and member of numerous community and civic organizations.

Dr. Susan Levine

Dr. Susan Levine, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services of the Rialto Unified School District has worked in Public Education since her first teaching position in 1983. A New Jersey native, Dr. Levine attended Rutgers University (B.A. in French), University of Wisconsin-Madision (M.A. in French/Education), Chapman University (Administrative Credential) and University of Redlands (Ed.D.) She has taught high school French and English in Wisconsin, New Jersey and California. Dr. Levine has served as a middle school and high school assistant principal, high school principal, assistant superintendent of personnel services and superintendent. She has been awarded the President’s Award for Excellence in Leadership by the African-American Chamber of Commerce in the city of Victorville, where she resides.

Dr. Aisha Lowe

Dr. Aisha Lowe serves as the Deputy Director of STAND UP, leading Mayor Kevin Johnson’s local advocacy initiative to ensure every child has the opportunity to attend an excellent public school. Prior to joining STAND UP, Aisha was the Director of Research for the California Charter Schools Association where she authored the Similar Students Measure for charter school accountability and a report about the performance of African-American students in California, Chartering and Choice as an Achievement-gap Closing Reform. She is a former teacher and professor and previously served as the Executive Director of the East Palo Alto Stanford Academy, the Tutorial Director of the East Palo Alto Tennis and Tutoring Program, a site coordinator for the Educational Program for Gifted Youth (Korea), and the Coordinator for Partners for Academic Excellence at Stanford. She served as the Co-Chair of the Board of Directors of Fellowship Academy and currently serves on the Board of Trustees and as President of the Alumni Association at The Urban School of San Francisco, her alma mater.

Adonai Mack

Adonai Mack is a legislative advocate for the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA). Mack advocates on behalf of members of ACSA in areas including the State budget, Special Education, transportation, pupil services and pre-school. Prior to joining ACSA, Mack served as legislative advocate at the California School Boards Association, where he focused on charter schools, facilities, retirement and professional development. He has also worked as an advocate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell and in the Office of the Secretary for Education for former Governor Gray Davis. A native of Davis, California and the son of former longtime Sacramento-area Superintendent Carl Mack, he is a graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta.

Lou Massicci

Lou Massicci is the Regional Vice President of Sales for Voyager and Sopris Learning. He started his career in education almost 20 years ago as a teacher for Tulare City Schools where he taught both elementary and middle school. Lou has as Master of Arts Degree in education with an emphasis in administration and supervision. His passion for assisting students who struggle led him to a position with Houghton Mifflin where he spent more than a decade serving Central California school districts. That position prepared him for his current role as a sales leader with Voyager/Sopris, the nation’s largest provider of intervention solutions for at-risk and special student populations. Lou works with districts across the Western U.S. to develop intervention plans that include three essential elements that are critical to increased student achievement for struggling students. These elements include programs that are research-based and proven effective; a data management system that assists with universal screening and progress monitoring; and lastly a comprehensive implementation plan for teacher training and ongoing support. Lou’s greatest achievements include his efforts to provide the resources necessary to help students who are the most at-risk and in jeopardy of completing their education.

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Diane Marshall-Freeman

Diane Marshall-Freeman is a managing partner with Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost, LLP, Sacramento office. A highly skilled practitioner with an extensive background in all areas of General and Special Education Law, she serves as general counsel to the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). An experienced litigator, Ms. Marshall-Freeman has successfully argued cases at the federal and state levels. As general counsel to CIF, she has appeared in state courts on matters involving student athletic eligibility, qualifications for Section and State championships, and CIF jurisdiction. She holds B.A. and J.D. Degrees from the University of California at Los Angeles.

Dr. Mark Marshall

Dr. Mark Marshall is an active and proud member of CAAASA and the first African-American Superintendent of the Eastside Union School District in Lancaster, CA. He has served as an educator for nearly 26 years. Prior to his tenure in the Eastside Union School District, he held positions of special education teacher, special education supervisor, assistant principal, middle school principal, and high school principal. Dr. Marshall earned his BA. and M.Ed. degrees in Special Education at Nicholls State University. He completed his administrative certification and Ed.S. degree at the University of West Georgia, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership at Auburn University. He has also completed post-doctoral study at Western Washington University and the Universiy of California Los Angeles-Extension. As a classroom teacher and a school administrator, Dr. Marshall has received numerous accolades and has been a featured presenter at local, state, and national conferences.

Gabriel E. McCurtis

Gabriel E. McCurtis is the Superintendent of Schools for the McFarland Unified School District. He earned both the bachelor and master degree at the University of California, Riverside. He is currently working on a doctorate in the field of Christian Education through the Calvary Chapel Teachers College in San Diego. He has served as a teacher, principal and school administrator in various districts, including Rialto Unified School District, Pittsburgh Unified School District, Berkeley Unified School District, Santa Paula Union High School District. He has also served as an adjunct professor for Azusa Pacific University. In addition to his educational interests, he is also an ordained minister and the pastor of the Unity Christian Fellowship Church of God in Christ, a ministry he founded in 1991.

Robin McIver-Brown

Robin McIver Brown, Senior Director Categorical Programs and Services has served in public and private education in San Bernardino and Los Angeles Counties since 1985. A California native, and educated in the Rialto Unified School District (RUSD), McIver-Brown attended University of California, Los Angeles (B.A. in Psychology/Diversified Liberal Arts), Pepperdine University (M.S. in Administration), and University of Redlands (Administrative Credential). Her professional career began as an elementary Title I Instructional Assistant, elementary and middle school teacher. Her accomplishments in the classroom were recognized by the San Bernardino Area Chamber of Commerce, and extended to traditional and year-round school administrative roles as a teaching assistant principal, assistant principal, elementary administrator, principal of the first school in RUSD to Exit Program Improvement under the NCLB Act of 2001, area director, senior director, member of the superintendentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabinet, and adjunct professor at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Dr. George McKenna

Dr. George McKenna is an Educational Consultant. He previously served as Superintendent, Local District 7, with the Los Angeles Unified School District. A lifelong educator, McKenna held several positions within the district before joining Washington Preparatory High School in Los Angeles as its Principal. While at Washington Prep, he developed and implemented the Preparatory School Model, stressing academic excellence at all levels. In four years, he successfully changed an inner-city high school that had been torn by violence, low achievement and lack of community confidence into a school with an attendance waiting list, and nearly 80% of the graduates enrolled in college. Because of his success, Dr. McKennaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs have been widely modeled throughout the country. Additionally, a motion picture about his success was released in 1986. In addition to serving as a teacher and principal, he served as General Deputy in a Local District, Superintendent in Inglewood, and Assistant Superintendents in Compton, Los Angeles, and Pasadena School Unified Districts before coming out of retirement to work with LAUSD again.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

Fred Mickle

Fred Mickle has been involved in both military and civilian education for over 20 years. He has done so, serving as Marine Corps, Operations Education Training Officer, UCLA Adjunct Professor ’92-‘95, UCLA Academic Advisor, and Student Services Coordinator, The Director for Student Services at Ventura Community College, Veterans Affairs Counselor at California State University Northridge. He has also served as a Researcher and Career Counselor for The University of the Pacific and California State University Sacramento, and later as the Regional Outreach Coordinator for the Early Academic Outreach Program at the University of California, Davis. While in the Marine Corps, he served in various leadership positions and achieved the rank of “Major of Marines,” distinguishing himself by actively serving during Desert Storm and most recently in Operation Iraqi Freedom ’94-‘96. He has a Master’s degree from California State University, Northridge in Educational Psychology for Business Industry and Government with an emphasis in Career Counseling; he is currently the ACT, West Region Regional Manager.

Dr. James Noble

Dr. James Noble is the Administrator of Operations for Los Angeles Unified School District’s Educational Service Center - South. He was born in Los Angeles, attended LAUSD Schools and graduated from Susan Miller Dorsey High School. He attended local colleges, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Education. He has served as a teacher and principal at various levels and has worked for LAUSD for 34 years.

Dr. Rose Owens-West

Dr. Rose Owens-West has worked with multiple federal programs, and projects that address disproportionality in special education; redesigning low-performing high schools with large populations of students of color and English learners; and building the capacity of state systems of support to turn around chronically low-performing districts and schools. She convened the California Superintendents’ Council on Language, Culture, Poverty and Race, and served on a statewide committee to create California’s Strategic Plan to alleviate disproportionality in special education. Previously Owens-West served as the Director of the Smaller Learning Communities Technical Assistance Center at WestEd, Associate Director of the California Comprehensive Center, and Co-Director of the California Multiple Pathways Feasibility Study. Owens-West received a BA in anthropology from Rhodes College, an MA in anthropology from the University of Illinois at Urbana, and a Ph.D. in education administration and policy analysis from Stanford University.

Monica Peavy

Monica Peavy works with teachers, principals and other school district contacts concerning Change Management and supporting schools in using data to drive school-wide practices in Indianapolis. Through her work, she advises on school and district policies that affect teaching and learning. Before transitioning into her current role, Monica supported school districts in planning and managing their professional development needs across the school year. Prior to working at Wireless Generation, Monica spent several years working for Columbus City Schools in Columbus, Ohio. During her time with Columbus City Schools, Monica taught special education students with developmental delays writing and teaching towards goals on student Individual Education Plans. She also served as a Reading Data Coach supporting teachers in utilizing early literacy data to inform classroom instruction. Monica attended Fisk University in Nashville, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Psychology.

Mayor Eric J. Perrodin

Mayor Eric J. Perrodin has committed his life to public service. Perrodin grew up in Compton and later attended California State University Dominguez Hills, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1982. Following undergraduate school, he joined the Compton Police Department. Always dedicated to excellence, Perrodin distinguished himself for high performance while working as an officer in several divisions, including community affairs, gangs, narcotics and as a detective. During his tenure, he built a reputation as a seasoned officer and champion of those considered underdogs in the City. Perrodin was one of the youngest officers ever promoted to the position of Sergeant for the Compton Police Department. He served as the President of the Compton Police Officers Association and showed his community spirit, along with his fellow officers, by participating in several Christmas variety shows, which raised funds to purchase food and gifts for needy families. An advocate for education, after serving 12 years, he left the force to become a Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County. Because of his strong belief in and advocacy for the City of Compton, Perrodin decided to run for Mayor. The citizens of Compton elected Eric J. Perrodin to the office of Mayor on June 5, 2001 and he has served since then. Mayor Perrodin continues to strive for excellence.

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Pamela Peters

Pamela Peters is a certified coach, mentor and teacher with over twenty-years of experience working with students, parents and school administrators. Pamela is a former Director of Human Development and Life Skills Coach at Sacramento Country Day School, with 10 years of experience there. She is also a graduate of the Academy for Coaching Excellence, certified by the International Coaching Federation. Pamela is the Parenting Expert for KCRA TV Channel 3, an NBC affiliate in the Sacramento area. She coached individual staff, parents and students, providing them with tools and insights for one-on-one personal and academic issues. Peters delivered workshops for administrators, teachers and parents in conflict resolution, diversity and inclusion. She taught students peer mediation, friendship building, positive social interactions and problem solving techniques while teaching parents and administrators ways to support their students to become the best they can be.

Dr. Pamela Short Powell

Dr. Pamela Short Powell, is an educational consultant. She previously served as the interim CEO of the Greater Crenshaw Educational Partnership. This is a partnership between the Los Angeles Unified School District, Los Angeles Urban League, Tom and Ethel Bradley Foundation, and the USC Rossier School of Education. She has spent the last thirty-five years serving as an educator in the public school system. She served as the Superintendent of the Inglewood Unified School District, the Interim Superintendent as well as Chief Academic Officer for the Oklahoma City Public Schools, and the Assistant Superintendent for Schools, Director of Elementary Instruction, Principal, Curriculum Resource Specialist and teacher for the Pasadena Unified School District. Dr. Powell actively and successfully pursued various community outreach ventures for the benefit of children, such as implementing the Adopt-A-School Program; establishing a partnership with the Association of Inglewood Ministerial Alliance and initiated a district-wide fatherhood outreach effort. She has been a visiting professor for the University of San Diego and Azusa Pacific University. She has her own educational consultant business in which she consults with varioius school districts throughout the State.

Senator Curren Price

Senator Curren Price began his career with the California Legislature as an Assemblyman, elected in 2006. He was re-elected to represent the 51st District by an overwhelming margin in 2008. After serving one full term in the California State Assembly, he was elected in May 2009 to represent the 26th District in the State Senate. Senator Price is a strong advocate for investing in our public schools, empowering parents and challenging all students to meet higher academic standards and seeks to give all Californians, regardless of income or socioeconomic status, the chance to go to college and develop the skills needed to succeed in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly competitive workplace. As a champion for working families, Senator Price has fought to protect the rights of California workers. He has led efforts to support homecare workers, hotel workers, security guards and other workers that are vital to Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, in order to organize for better wages and benefits. Senator Price serves on a range of important committees including the Legislative Joint Committee on the Arts, which he chairs, as well as the several Senate Select Committees. Additionally, he serves on Appropriations, Banking Finance and Insurance, Education, Governmental Organization and Local Government committees. Prior to serving in the California Legislature, Senator Price was a 2-term member of the Inglewood City Council. He has also been a business owner and consultant. Senator Price holds a B.A. from Stanford University and Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University. Senator Price is also Chair of the Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee.

Mary Ransom

She is a passionate educator who firmly believes you have to focus on educating all students in order to have great schools and a great school district. Elected Vice-President of School Site Council and Advisory Council, Vice President, District Advisory Council, served on Superintendent Advisory Council and Strategic Planning Committee, served on district ELAC committee, President Lynwood Unified School District African-American Advisory Parent Council. The needs of African-American students for equal access to educational resources and to have qualified school leadership staff that looks like them is invaluable for their self-esteem and future dreams is invaluable.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Castle Redmond, J.D.

Castle Redmond, J.D., formerly a program manager for the Oakland Unified School District/City of Oakland (OUSD), has been appointed as program manager for the California Endowment’s Health Foundation’s 10-year, $1 billion Building Healthy Communities plan. Redmond is responsible for developing funding strategies for youth development and violence prevention with an emphasis on juvenile justice and school discipline policies. While with OUSD, Redmond oversaw Measure Y’s Juvenile Justice Center Wraparound Strategy and collaborated with the probation department on reforms to the juvenile justice system, among a number of other responsibilities. He also served as a case manager and teacher for OUSD from 2002-2009, during which he coordinated services for students, worked with new teachers and administrators on methods to address student behavior, and provided outreach to families, community-based organizations and government agencies. Redmond also served as a commissioner for Alameda County’s Human Relations Commission from 2004-2007 where he co- led the Sexually Exploited Minors Task Force efforts at building community support and raising awareness of the issue. In addition, Redmond co-drafted the official task force recommendations for the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. Redmond, a Sacramento resident, earned his B.A. in History from the University of California, Berkeley, and his law degree from Georgetown University.

Winfred B. Roberson, Jr.

Winfred B. Roberson, Jr. is a 1989 UC Berkeley Graduate. He began teaching 8th grade U.S. History in the Compton Unified School District in 1992. From 1992 through 2000 Winfred served on curriculum writing teams for three school districts. During his teaching tenure, Winfred served as the social studies department chair and the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) coordinator. Winfred has also served as a student mentor, football and track coach, and the Gang Risk Intervention Program Director. In 2000, Winfred stepped into K-12 administration first as a Jr. High School Dean, then High School Assistant Principal, and High School Principal. In July 2010 Winfred was appointed Superintendent of the Davis Joint Unified School District.

Dr. Matthew Ross

Dr. Matthew Ross is currently the Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services at the Eastside Union School District in Lancaster, California. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Masters of Art in Educational Leadership from the California State University, Bakersfield and his Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. He has previously served as a middle school principal and assistant principal and has taught history, government, and economics at the high school level.

Scott Spector

Scott Spector has been in education for over 20 years. After finishing his professional baseball career, he started his career in education as the Head Baseball Coach at Pasadena City College where he taught Psychology of Sport, and Anatomy and Physiology for eight years. Scott then moved on to teaching and coaching at the K-12 level to working for UCLA and the Graduate School of Education and Information Studies. While with UCLA, he worked as the Science Literacy coach within Local District 7 of the Los Angeles Unified School District. He served the Program Improvement and High Priority schools in LAUSD. Scott has degrees in Psychology, Kinesiology, and Physical Education, as well as Master degrees in Educational Administration and Educational Curriculum Development. He has worked within the Teacher Education departments of California State University Dominguez Hills, California State University Northridge, and National University.

Ellen Spencer

Ellen Spencer, a retired school administrator (and still active with schools), is the founder of Link ED. She served as a teacher for 12 years in elementary and middle schools before contributing to wider student achievement as a principal for 16 years. In that capacity, she guided private, public, urban and rural schools, such Beechwood School in Menlo Park and schools in the Ravenswood and La Honde-Pescadero School Districts. In addition, she was involved with mentoring, induction and coaching as a BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment) Support Provider. She is most proud of her term as principal at the James Flood Science and Technology Magnet School and community in Ravenwood leading to a 1993 California Distinguished School award during her tenure. Since retiring, she has been involved in PLC support and has designed a series of workshops to help teachers and principals develop optimally performing grade level teams.

Joan Sullivan

Joan Sullivan currently serves as Deputy Mayor of Education for the City of Los Angeles. In this role, she oversees the mayor’s education policy agenda, working closely with the superintendent and board president to transform the nation’s second largest school district. She also oversees the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, a non-profit turnaround organization that is accelerating student achievement at scale within the district’s lowest performing schools. Sullivan previously spent a decade in the South Bronx as the founding principal of a high-poverty, high-performing public secondary school and as a high school social studies teacher. Before entering the classroom, Sullivan worked on Bill Bradley’s 2000 presidential campaign, documenting her experiences in a memoir entitled “An American Voter”, published in 2002. She began her career working for the Civilian Complaint Review Board, a New York City agency charged with investigating police misconduct. Sullivan, a graduate of the Broad Fellowship for Education Leadership, holds a M.S. in School Leadership and graduated with a B.A. in American Studies from Yale College, where she earned All-American honors in lacrosse. California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Kym Taylor

Counselor-High School, Valley View, Advisor of the Black Student Union at Valley View High School, President of the United Black Student Union of Southern California, State Board Member of the United Black Student Unions of California, Executive Director of Kids Youth Mentorship Services Inc.

Eddie Velasquez

Edward Velasquez has served as Superintendent of Schools for the Lynwood Unified School District (LUSD) since July of 2010. A tireless advocate for students, he has been committed to ensuring that young people receive a quality education throughout his 33-year career in education. His teaching career began in 1978 with the Montebello Unified School District (MUSD). There, he has served as an elementary and middle school teacher, intermediate assistant principal and principal. In 1998, he was appointed Associate Superintendent working directly alongside the District’s Superintendent. In January of 2004, he was appointed Interim Superintendent and then, Superintendent, later that year. Velasquez also served as the District’s POST Certified Chief of School Police, appointed in January 2006 by the Board of Education. Under Velasquez’s leadership, MUSD realized tremendous success. LUSD has and continues to do the same, especially in the areas of student attendance and improvement in the Academic Performance Index. Velasquez has been involved with numerous committees and task forces, including the Association of California School Administrators, Urban Education Committee, State of California Safe School Task Forces and L.A. County Safe School Task Forces.

Mayor Acquanetta Warren

Acquanetta Warren was elected as Mayor of Fontana in November 2010. Mayor Warren has focused her administration on expanding Fontana local businesses to showcase their products and services with “Fontana Is Open for Business” show, improving public safety and public education and by strengthening city neighborhoods. Ms. Warren is Deputy Director of Public Works in the City of Upland in charge of infrastructure maintenance. She joined the City of Upland as a consultant in Housing Programs and later became an employee in Fire, Building, Police, Code Enforcement and Public Works Departments. Additionally, she had a 16 year career in Banking in Product Management and Marketing. She began her career working for the County of Los Angeles on the District Attorneys Youth Advisory Board and working for the City of Los Angeles 8th District Councilman Robert Farrell developing community outreach programs. She received her B.A. in Political Science/Urban Studies from Occidental College. Mayor Warren currently serves on the Casa Colina and Scheu YMCA of Upland Board of Directors. She is a member of Fontana Rotary and the City Representative for Inland Empire Utility Agency Policy Committee. She was the first African-American appointed and elected Fontana Councilmember and is the first female and African-American Mayor for Fontana.

Michael Watkins

Michael Watkins was elected Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools in November 2006. Watkins had served in the Santa Cruz County Office of Education since 1980 as Director Special Education, then Director, Alternative Education. Additionally, he served as Past State President of the Juvenile Court, Community and Alternative School Administrators of California. A native of Oakland, California, he received a B.A. in Psychology, teaching credentials in both History and Special Education and a Masters degree in School Administration from Cal State University Hayward. His teaching experience includes one year as a teacher in Oakland, followed by seven years with the Alameda County Office of Education.

Vinnie White

Mrs. Vinnie Jackson White received her public school training from the Holmes County public schools in Tchula, MS. She continued her education at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, MS and Delta State University in Cleveland, MS. Vinnie taught math 31 years before retiring in May 2003. Vinnie received numerous awards during her career including: Outstanding Community Service Award - NAACP Leflore County Branch, Deltonian Teacher of the Year, Commitment and Dedication Award for 31 years with the United Education Profession and the Mississippi Association of Educators. During the last months of her teaching career, she introduced her students to technology-based instruction by using I CAN Learn®. Currently she serves as a Teacher Resource/Account Executive for I CAN Learn® Education Systems. She travels nationwide mentoring Teachers, and motivating students to excel in mathematics. She remains an active educator, community leader, and motivational speaker.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013

CAAASA 2013

California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators

CAAASA 2013

Dr. Angelo Williams

Angelo Williams, Ed.D., serves as assistant executive director for the Policy and Programs Department at the California School Boards Association and the California School Boards Foundation. In this capacity he oversees the organization’s policy analysis and grant related program development functions. Williams comes to CSBA from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, where as a program officer, he managed a portfolio of education and economic development grants. He served as an adjunct professor of social science, education policy and administration at Drexel University’s Center for Graduate Studies; Sacramento City College and Sacramento State University. Williams began his career in government with the California State Legislature, serving as a legislative analyst; a Senate associate consultant and field deputy for education and economic development legislation; and later as a gubernatorial appointee to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, as state director and assistant vice chancellor. He earned a doctorate in education at California State University, Sacramento and an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis.

Jabari Willis

Jabari Willis is a senior associate in the Cerritos office of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo. Willis represents public entities in all aspects labor and employment law, including employment litigation defense. Willis also represents school districts in all aspects of education law, including special education and student discipline. He has represented employers in matters before the Public Employment Relations Board, Department of Fair Employment and Housing, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Office of Administrative Hearings. In addition, Willis has assisted public employers with litigation matters in state and federal courts including successfully obtaining temporary restraining orders and permanent injunctions. He also conducts investigations into allegations of harassment and discrimination.

Regina Wilson-Brown

Regina Wilson-Brown, as the founder of RBW Communications – a strategic communications firm that specializes in positioning AfricanAmerican community, political, faith and thought leaders in public policy discussions – has a long record of ensuring that the black viewpoint remains central to all of the debates that shape life in California. A 2007 appointee of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to the State Department of Education, Wilson held several posts in the administration: Communications Chair of the governor’s “Troops to College” initiative, which encourages active-duty personnel and veterans to use their Montgomery GI Bill at California’s public colleges and universities; head of communications for the State Board of Education; and statewide education and faith-based outreach manager for the 2010 Census. Prior to her work in government, Wilson co-founded BPC Mediaworks LLC, a media relations firm that managed The Black Voice News, a weekly newspaper, and handled government affairs for black-owned media outlets throughout California. A graduate of Wilberforce University, Wilson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications.

Dr. LaTyna Young

Dr. LaTyna Young has spent 40 years in educational leadership in the Vallejo City Unified School District. She has served as the Director of Student Support Services and Alternative Education, Principal of Community Based School and Independent Study Program, Principal of People’s Continuation School, Principal of Hogan School, and as a Dean of Bethel School. She has also been a classroom teacher in Vallejo City Unified School District. She is an Adjunct Professor of Chatman College specializing in the Teacher Credential Program. Dr. Young is the CEO of ABC Educational Consulting.

CAAASA 2013 State Conference - Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel - February 20 - 22, 2013