Join experts from WestEd’s Resilient and Healthy Schools and Communities team as they present at the 2025 CCSPP EMPOWER Summit, hosted by the California Community Schools Statewide Technical Assistance Center. The Summit will be held at the Fresno Convention Center in Fresno, California on June 12–13, 2025.
This annual summit brings together district and local education agency leaders, school staff, and community service providers to advance the goals of the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP). With a focus on building capacity for community schools planning, implementation, evaluation, and sustainability, WestEd will lead or co-lead four sessions grounded in evidence-based strategies and real-world examples from partner local education agencies across California.
Our sessions will highlight approaches to:
- ecosystem partnerships for sustained impact,
- participatory leadership in community schools,
- strategic evaluation for continuous improvement, and
- blending and braiding funding streams for aligned implementation
View details about WestEd’s sessions below.
WestEd Sessions
Building Ecosystems for Impact: Strategic Partnerships to Support Youth Mental Health and Well-Being
This interactive session explores how cross-sector partnerships can create sustainable systems of support around shared goals. Participants will engage in practical exercises and learn from Orange County Office of Education’s youth mental health initiatives.
Speakers: Natalie Walrond (WestEd), Amber Valdez (WestEd), Lara Kain (Orange County Department of Education)
Is What We’re Doing Working? Incorporating Evaluation into Your Community Schools Efforts
Learn how thoughtful evaluation drives meaningful change. This session will break down the evaluation process and share how one California county uses it to strengthen their community schools approach.
Speakers: Ashley Boal (WestEd), Alejandra Martin (Los Angeles County Office of Education), Yesenia Nungaray (Los Angeles County Office of Education)
Enhancing Participatory Leadership in Community Schools
Explore how shared leadership practices can foster complex systems change and strengthen community school efforts. Participants will reflect, connect, and build strategies to advance inclusive leadership within their local contexts.
Speakers: Amber Valdez (WestEd), Rebeca Cerna (WestEd)
Strategic Blending and Braiding of Funds to Support a Vision for Thriving Students
Discover practical strategies for aligning LCSSP and CCSPP funding. Presenters will share on-the-ground examples and discuss opportunities for LEAs to build cohesive financial strategies.
Speakers: Laura Buckner (WestEd), Jenny Betz (WestEd), Representatives from San Joaquin COE and Alum Rock Elementary SD
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Don’t miss these timely and practical conversations—designed to empower your work in community schools!