The ACSA Equity Committee chose this year’s theme ­— “Equity — Our Moral Obligation ... Lead with Courage, Character & Commitment” — to emphasize the ethical imperative of promoting equity in education, said Simone Charles, planning committee chair for the institute.

“‘Lead with Courage, Character & Commitment’ underscores the need for proactive, principled leadership in addressing disparities and inequities in a bold manner to support all students,” she said. “By framing equity as a moral obligation, the theme encourages a strong sense of responsibility and dedication among educators and leaders and is a call to action.”

This conference is specifically designed for site and district teams, giving principals, teachers, parent leaders, counselors and central office administrators a unique opportunity to learn and work together on pathways that will improve outcomes for their students.

Participants will actively engage with experts in the field to build on the existing work already happening throughout the state while developing the tools and skills needed to create innovative, inclusive and equitable pathways for students.

“During this institute there will be a focus on not just the ‘learning’ but the ‘doing,’” said Charles, principal of Whitman Continuation High School in Los Angeles USD. “We will have presenters and panelists who are leaders in promoting equity and are champions in fostering diverse and equitable learning environments and strategies for narrowing the achievement gaps among students. The leaders here will understand the call to action.”

Attendees will hear a keynote from Patricia Brent-Sanco, director of Equity, Access & Instructional Services in Lynwood USD, and from panelists including Tonikiaa Orange, director for the Principal Leadership Institute at UCLA Center X, and Angela Clarke Louque, author, professor and school equity consultant. These and other distinguished speakers will inspire attendees, while numerous breakout sessions and table talks will equip them with strategies for creating change in their schools. Attendees will also enjoy networking and receptions, giving them the opportunity to build their equity community and support system.

Charles invites school leaders to experience this unparalleled learning experience.

“What I enjoy most about attending ACSA’s Equity Institute and conferences is the opportunity it affords me to gain insights into effective strategies, network with like-minded professionals, and enhance my leadership skills,” she said. “It is my hope that this institute will allow my colleagues to stay informed about the latest developments in educational equity and foster a sense of community and shared commitment to positive change.”

Charles encourages all administrators, whether at school sites or central offices, to submit a proposal to present at the ACSA Equity Institute.

“Presenting at the ACSA Equity Institute allows administrators to share successful initiatives, best practices and demonstrate leadership in promoting equity and inspire other educators to do the same,” she said. “It fosters collaboration, accelerates the dissemination of effective strategies, and contributes to a collective effort in advancing equity in education.”

Proposals will be accepted until 12 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23. Go to bit.ly/equity2024 and click on “Call for Proposals” for more information and to submit. Selected presenters will receive 50 percent off their registration fees.