2026 CSBA Counties Conference: Full Schedule

Welcome to the 2026 CSBA Counties Conference!

This conference provides a unique opportunity for county board leaders to come together and discuss students’ futures in light of domestic policies and global trends. County board members, superintendents and educational partners from throughout the state will come together to gain valuable knowledge and information in three key areas: advocacy, governance and policy; funding, workforce and educational access; student well-being, safety and success.

As the role of county offices of education (COEs) continues to evolve, CSBA is committed to providing COE board members with the necessary tools and information to become effective elected education leaders. The program will feature member-led workshops, micro-trainings, networking opportunities, and more—offering attendees practical strategies, peer-driven insights, and ample chances to connect and collaborate with colleagues from across California. It is a must-attend event for county board leaders!

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Visit Marina del Rey
View the CSBA Counties Conference Marina del Rey Visitor Guide to find information about local events, restaurants and attractions. Discover what the beautiful coastal city of Marina del Rey has to offer its visitors.

If you require any assistance during your stay in Marina del Rey, please visit the registration desk outside the California Ballroom in the Outer Foyer located on the Lobby Level of the Marina del Rey Marriott.

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3:00pm PDT

Micro-training: CSBA Policy Toolkit

Friday September 25, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT

California Ballroom, Lobby Level

Strong governance begins with strong policy. This interactive micro-training will introduce the CSBA Policy Toolkit and demonstrate how trustees can use its resources to strengthen policy literacy, engage community stakeholders, and develop effective, equitable policies that support student success. Participants will leave with practical strategies for making policy development a more informed and impactful part of board governance.

Speakers

Mary Briggs

Senior Director, Research and Education Policy Development, CSBA

Mary Gardner Briggs is Senior Director of Research and Education Policy Development at the California School Boards Association (CSBA), where she leads efforts to advance school governance and address critical policy issues facing California's TK–12 public schools. Since joining CSBA in 2016, she... Read More →

Tezeta Stewartz

Senior Director, Policy and Governance Technology Services, CSBA

Policy Tools for Effective Governance Counties Conference Sept 2026 pdf

Friday September 25, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
California Ballroom, Lobby Level

Micro-training

3:30pm PDT

Micro-training: Legislative Committee Spotlight: Representing County Voices

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT

California Ballroom, Lobby Level

The CSBA Legislative Committee plays a critical role in shaping the Association's advocacy priorities and ensuring county perspectives are represented in the legislative process. Whether you have considered serving on the committee or simply want to better understand its work, this session will provide an inside look at how the committee operates, why county representation matters, and how trustees can become more engaged in advancing policies that support students and county offices of education.

Speakers

Annette Lewis

Region 14 Director, Contra Costa COE

Annette Lewis currently serves as the CSBA Region 14 Director representing the county boards of education on the CSBA Board of Directors. She is part of the Legislative Committee.

She was elected to the Contra Costa County Board of Education in 2018 where she continues to serve.
Sh... Read More →

CSBA Governance Process Flyer pdf

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm PDT
California Ballroom, Lobby Level