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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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Trends, Challenges, and Innovative Practices in Special Education
Friday September 25, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
California Ballroom, Lobby Level
Special education continues to evolve as county offices navigate changing legislation, legal requirements, fiscal realities, and increasing student needs. Join a panel featuring experts in legislative policy, legal guidance, and county office practitioners with deep experience in SELPA leadership and differentiated assistance as they explore current trends, emerging challenges, and promising practices from across California. Participants will gain practical insights, a broader understanding of the statewide landscape, and ideas they can bring back to support governance, oversight, and student success.
Speakers
avatar for Damali Thomas

Damali Thomas

Executive SELPA Director, Los Angeles COE
Damali Thomas is an accomplished educational leader and passionate advocate for equity, inclusion, and educational excellence, with more than 23 years of experience in public education specializing in services and supports for students with disabilities. Her career began as a Special... Read More →
avatar for Jovan Jacobs

Jovan Jacobs

Director III, Division of Special Education, Los Angeles COE
Dr. Jovan Jacobs joined the Los Angeles County Office of Education as Director III of the Division of Special Education in February 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in special education. Prior to this role, she served as the Associate Superintendent of Specialized Student... Read More →
avatar for Marissa Vismara

Marissa Vismara

Legislative Advocate, Governmental Relations, CSBA
Marissa Vismara serves as Legislative Advocate for Federal and State Affairs at the California School Boards Association (CSBA), where she analyzes legislation, develops advocacy strategies, and builds relationships with policymakers and education stakeholders to advance policies... Read More →
avatar for Matthew Juhl-Darlington

Matthew Juhl-Darlington

Attorney at Law, Dannis Woliver Kelley
Matt Juhl-Darlington is a Shareholder in the Chico and San Francisco offices of Dannis Woliver Kelley. He is a member of the Students and Special Education (SPED), Labor, Employment and Personnel (LEAP), and Board Ethics, Transparency and Accountability (BETA) Practice Groups.
Friday September 25, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
California Ballroom, Lobby Level
  General Session

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