Region 16 held its annual Wellness Retreat on Jan. 31 at Castaway Burbank. The retreat provided a rejuvenating and reflective experience centered on the theme, “Leader wellness begins within and radiates outward.” Participants engaged in a variety of wellness-focused sessions, including yoga, art therapy, affirmations, and nature walks through the surrounding hills.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Candy Singh of “Leader in Me.” ACSA Past-President Raphael Plascencia and Mrs. Plascencia were also in attendance and shared meaningful reflections on the importance of self-care and personal well-being in leadership. The retreat was an inspiring and enriching day for the members of Region 16.

The 11th annual ACSA Mid-State Conference will be held March 13-15 at the Embassy Suites in San Luis Obispo, bringing together educational leaders from across California for three days of learning, inspiration, and collaboration.

Hosted by ACSA Regions 9, 10, 11, and 13, this year’s conference theme, “Leading for Tomorrow: Reimagining Education Together,” emphasizes forward-thinking leadership, equity, innovation, and the evolving role of school administrators in a rapidly changing educational landscape.

The conference will open on Friday with a full-day pre-conference session led by Dr. Victor Rios, nationally recognized scholar, author, and educator. Drawing from his personal story and professional work, Rios will focus on empowering leaders to support student voice, shift from deficit-based thinking to asset-based mindsets, and better serve students and families impacted by immigration and systemic barriers. The day will conclude with a hosted social, dinner, and Friday evening general session featuring Dr. Rios.

On Saturday, attendees will gather for a general session keynote by Dr. Jacqueline Sanderlin, author of “The ‘Why Not?’ Challenge.” Her keynote will challenge leaders to disrupt conventional thinking, strengthen community partnerships, and lead boldly in areas such as innovation, mental health, and digital transformation. Saturday will also include a live Legislative and Government Relations Luncheon, providing timely updates on state policy and advocacy issues impacting public education.

The conference will conclude on Sunday with a general session keynote by Dr. Sabba Quidwai, an internationally recognized expert in artificial intelligence, innovation, and future-ready leadership. Quidwai’s session will explore how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping education and leadership, followed by an affinity panel discussion featuring leaders from CALSA, CAAPLE, CAAASA, and LGBTQ+ educator organizations.

Throughout the conference, participants will have access to a wide range of breakout sessions led by practicing administrators and educational leaders. Session topics include instructional leadership, student attendance, MTSS, school safety, restorative practices, superintendent searches, cybersecurity, AI in education, staff wellness, and systems-level change. The conference also features an exhibitor fair, networking socials, and numerous door prizes and giveaways.

The 11th annual ACSA Mid-State Conference is open to superintendents, principals, district administrators, aspiring leaders, and other education professionals. Register at acsamidstateconf2026a.sched.com. Hotel block rates available. Early registration is encouraged, as the conference has sold out in past years.