Q10 Equity in Education — Conference Schedule

Take the Why NOT? Challenge

As a collective, we have the potential to create change, but it requires that we take intentional steps toward building a sense of COMMUNITY in every space that we occupy. Dr. Jackie will take participants on a journey of how to authentically build community, collaboration, capacity, connection, and creativity between each other and the scholars we impact every day. Get ready to RISE!

Bridging the Gap: Integrating Cumulative Disconnection Theory with Quantum 10 for Sustained Equity presented by Dundra Tieuel Hollins.

Disconnection is not a moment—it is a process. Students rarely disengage all at once. Instead, their emotional, academic, and social exit is built over time through overlooked signals, missed cues, and silent ruptures. Cumulative Disconnection Theory (CDT) names and addresses this process, offering a new way to recognize and repair the underlying causes of disengagement in schools.
Developed by Dundra Tieuel Hollins, Cumulative Disconnection Theory (CDT) is a relational equity framework that names micro-disconnections—those subtle, repeated moments when a student’s cues for connection go unmet as the unseen forces that silently shape defiance, disengagement, and eventual dropout.
It introduces a new vocabulary to the equity conversation: attuned presence, signal literacy, behavioral echoes, and recovery momentum terms designed to help educators move from reaction to relational repair.
This session positions CDT as the missing framework that brings relational coherence and emotional timing to the Quantum 10. (Q10) frameworks:
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Trauma-Informed Practices, Social Emotional Learning, Inclusive Practices, Response to Intervention, PBIS, Restorative Practices, Universal Design for Learning, Culturally Responsive Practices, and Growth Mindset. Without relational timing and emotional context, even the best strategies fall flat. While Q10 outlines powerful strategies, CDT activates and aligns them, providing the connective insight that transforms intention into impact.
Participants will engage with resources, including the Early Warning Signal Checklist and Engagement Fragility Rubric. These tools help educators recognize early signs of disconnection before they result in permanent loss.
Q10 tells us what to do—CDT shows us when it matters. CDT isn’t another initiative—it is the foundational shift that makes equity functional, lived, and real. It transforms connection from a vague ideal into an actionable, measurable force that restores dignity, safety, and trust across learning spaces.

The Color of Leadership presented by Dr. Anthony Rice

Leadership is more than a title it’s a calling rooted in purpose, authenticity, and impact. The Color of Leadership is a transformative presentation that invites educators, leaders, and changemakers to reflect deeply on what it means to lead with cultural awareness, equity, and boldness in today’s evolving educational landscape.
Dr. Anthony Rice, a seasoned educator, former professional athlete, and author of The Color of Leadership, draws on over 30 years of experience to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of leading as a person of color in spaces that often lack representation and inclusion. Through storytelling, real-life examples, and powerful reflection, this presentation dives into the intersection of race, leadership, and advocacy—challenging participants to rethink how they show up, who they serve, and why their presence matters.This session is for anyone ready to lead with intention, break barriers, and create spaces where every voice is heard and every student is seen.

Restorative Family Leadership presented by Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt

Join us for an empowering session designed to help you confidently navigate conversations about race, identity, and equity. In a time of growing resistance to justice efforts, courageous leadership is more important than ever. We'll start by establishing agreements to support open, honest dialogue, then dive into the Journey to Liberation framework—providing historical context and practical tools to address bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions. Through group discussions, restorative questions, and the 5 Pillars of Courageous Family Leadership, you'll gain strategies to promote equity-centered dialogue at school, work, and home. Leave equipped with actionable steps and renewed resilience to advance justice and liberation where you live, learn, and lead. This session is for educators, leaders, parents, and community members committed to real change.

Reflections from ‘Teaching Dual Enrollment’ Program presented by Dr. Shani Chen

This session explores Cal State LA's dual enrollment course, focusing on pedagogical, cultural, and classroom management strategies for both new and veteran community college instructors. Participants will learn about instructors’ perceptions through a qualitative lens to gain practical tools and frameworks to increase student learning outcomes. This professional development opportunity focuses on creating engaging, equitable experiences that foster student success in dual enrollment settings. By highlighting key insights gained from previous cohorts, including strategies for designing inclusive projects, increasing student engagement, fostering a sense of belonging, and supporting equity-driven practices, attendees will leave with actionable items to implement in their courses.

Scientific Modeling Meets Q10: Unlocking Critical Thinking and Equity in STEM presented by Neotha Williams

Scientific modeling is a tool used in STEM education that helps students make sense of complicated ideas by creating and testing representations of real-world phenomena. However, these modeling experiences don't reach all students equally. That's where the Q10 framework comes in.
This session explores how combining high-quality questioning (Q10) with scientific modeling can transform STEM learning into a more inclusive, engaging, and equitable experience. Discover how asking the right questions; challenging students to think critically and explore deeply, can make modeling more meaningful and accessible for every learner. We'll explore strategies for designing lessons for students to investigate, test ideas, and collaborate actively. These approaches help students build STEM skills, such as scientific reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving, while supporting diverse ways of thinking and communicating."

Taking a Seat at the Table -Inspiring the Pursuit of Equity Through Storytelling presented by Alyce Smith Cooper and Michael Felts

This equity-themed storytelling exercise will illuminate the value of sharing personal stories of overcoming challenges as one impactful way to inspire students, parents, and educators to pursue equity and opportunity. Be forewarned. This team-building exercise requires that participants dare to share an experience of how they gained a seat at the table and how that event was a turning point in their life. .

How High Road Leadership Accelerates the Implementation of Q10

The Q10 Framework continues to be a leading movement in sustaining equitable outcomes for scholars. Through the lens of High Road Leadership, educators, parents, and students can accelerate their effectiveness. Dr. Judy White will review John Maxwell’s tenets of High Road Leadership and provide compelling, transformative thinking and actionable strategies.
Panel members Dr. Deshunna Ricks, Dr. Ronnie Henderson, and Dr. Dio Saucedo will contribute to the discussion by sharing evidence-based practices. Their expertise working with administrators, teachers, counselors, parents, and students will equip participants with innovative techniques for engagement, excellence, reflection, and accountability. Systems work and cultivating belonging will be interwoven with personal High Road Leadership values.

Healing Leadership presented by Dr. Antoinette Gutierrez

The world we currently live and work in requires a deeper form of leadership. We have to show up healed to provide space for our teams to also heal or continue to be healthy to do their work. Learn about the inner work needed to lead with integrity in today's climate to do the work our students deserve.

The Innovation Blueprint: Designing Learning That Reaches the Disengaged presented by Dr. Jacqueline Sanderlin

Disengagement is a 21st-century challenge, often reflected in attendance, behavior, and academic performance. When students check out, it’s not just a behavior issue—it’s a design issue. This session introduces a practical innovation blueprint that combines UDL, Design Thinking, and PBL to re-engage learners. Learn how AI tools like custom GPTs can simplify and sustain the design process.

Empowering Latinx Leaders: Navigating Barriers and Fostering Inclusive Educational Landscapes presented by Dr. Carmen Beck

This workshop is inspired by the transformative insights and narratives presented in the book, "Strengthening Equitable Education Through Latina Leaders’ Perspectives," which highlights the profound impact of Latina leaders in shaping equitable and inclusive educational environments. Participants will engage with authors' personal stories, testimonios, and scholarly analyses that examine systemic barriers in educational leadership and explore pathways for transformation.

The 90-minute Miracle: How We Transform Tier 3 Students Midsets in 5-90-Minute Seminars presented by Gerard Vargas and Jose Hernandez

Many schools struggle with supporting their high-need tier 3 students. That’s where we come in. We get called by schools and districts to support their Tier 3 students with extreme behavioral, academic, and attendance challenges. Many of them have been suspended multiple times, expelled, incarcerated, are involved in gangs, bullying, and struggle with substance abuse.
We place them in a room with us for five 90-minute Mindset Mastery Seminars. We build powerful “level 4 relationships,” teach them social and emotional learning (SEL) skills, use high-impact teaching strategies, neuroscience-based tools, and psychotherapy methods like CBT, ACT, and DBT to optimize their beliefs, thinking, and habits to unleash the powerful genius within them!
They return to classrooms transformed in their academics, behavior, social skills, attitude, and identity. They no longer see themselves as a “struggling student” or “a problem kid” but as a high-achieving scholar with a service mindset. They implement service projects like being mental health specialists, peer tutors, mentors, or starting a kindness or entrepreneurship club. Most importantly, they are happier, more confident, and purpose-driven. We also invite staff members to observe these transformations so they can do the same.
Join us to experience the EBRAG Model of identity transformation and gain actionable implementation tools through five hands-on learning stations:
1. Educator emotion mastery skills to help us manage our emotions, build resilience, compassion, stamina, and thrive during stressful situations
2. Build level 4 relationships that heal trauma, enhance mental health, and give us the influence to teach and correct them without pushback
3. Foster compelling purpose-driven reasons to attend and succeed at school
4. Develop their ability to succeed in their academics, behavior, SEL skills, and being responsible
5. Ensure growth and contribution opportunities to lock in the growth mindset

Connectedness Births Resilience presented by Chaz Perez

Today's educators must build meaningful relationships with their students to succeed in the classroom, especially given shifting cultural factors. This keynote provides valuable insights into the importance of authentic connections in both personal and professional settings.

Journey to Liberation: Empowering Equity Conversations Through Courageous Leadership presented by Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt

Join us for an empowering session designed to help you confidently navigate conversations about race, identity, and equity. In a time of growing resistance to justice efforts, courageous leadership is more important than ever. We'll start by establishing agreements to support open, honest dialogue, then dive into the Journey to Liberation framework—providing historical context and practical tools to address bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions. Through group discussions, restorative questions, and the 5 Pillars of Courageous Family Leadership, you'll gain strategies to promote equity-centered dialogue at school, work, and home. Leave equipped with actionable steps and renewed resilience to advance justice and liberation where you live, learn, and lead. This session is for educators, leaders, parents, and community members committed to real change.

Get ready to sing your heart out!

🎤 Join us for a fun-filled evening of karaoke as we keep the energy high and the connections strong. Whether you’re performing solo, teaming up with friends, or cheering from the crowd, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind, laugh, and make unforgettable memories before we dive into Day 2 of the conference.

Disrupt the Norm, Design the Future: A Call for Positive Disruption in Leadership

“Disrupt the Norm, Design the Future" is a rallying charge for leaders who are ready to move beyond legacy thinking and step fully into the present and future needs of their teams, organizations, and communities. It is not about breaking systems for the sake of rebellion; It is about transforming them with purpose.

The Self-Directed Schooling Model: Metacognition and Self-Determination in Schools presented by Greg Mullen

What if students left school not only remembering facts but also mastering the art of steering their own learning? The Self-Directed Schooling (SDS) Model puts that question at the center of practice. Grounded in metacognition and self-determination research, SDS redesigns the governance of learning so that students co-author what is learned, how it is learned, and why it matters. In this interactive session, participants will de-construct traditional “best practice” pedagogy, then rebuild it through the ten Q10 equity elements: checking psychological safety first (Maslow), weaving explicit SEL routines into every task, applying Trauma-Informed lenses to feedback, embedding UDL choice pathways, shifting behavior supports from compliance (PBIS) to collaboration (Restorative Practices), and anchoring all content in Culturally Responsive & Inclusive frameworks. Along the way, we will model micro-tools such as student-authored success criteria, reflective “thinking-aloud” protocols, and 360-degree evidence maps that let learners track their own progress in real time. Attendees will leave with a ready-to-use “Metacognitive Playlist” and a planning template that aligns each lesson to at least one Q10 element. In short, SDS offers a concrete route from equity talk to equity architecture, moving agency from the margins to the mainstream and lighting a trail every student can follow.

High-Performing Leaders: Workplace Behaviors that Empower Change presented by Dr. Nancy Padilla

The research of Kirtman & Fullan (2019) has identified 7 key competencies of highly effective educational leaders and the accompanying workplace behaviors that "push" or "pull" organizational change. This session will focus on understanding how to use these competencies to build capacity for sustainable improvement through a culture of shared leadership and systemic collaboration. Individuals will assess themselves and have results that can guide their work for personal growth or whole-system change. Participants will self-reflect and identify workplace behaviors to amplify or diminish for improved student results.

High-Performing Leaders: Workplace Behaviors that Empower Change presented by Dr. Nancy Padilla

The research of Kirtman & Fullan (2019) has identified 7 key competencies of highly effective educational leaders and the accompanying workplace behaviors that "push" or "pull" organizational change. This session will focus on understanding how to use these competencies to build capacity for sustainable improvement through a culture of shared leadership and systemic collaboration. Individuals will assess themselves and have results that can guide their work for personal growth or whole-system change. Participants will self-reflect and identify workplace behaviors to amplify or diminish for improved student results.
Through practical examples from middle school classrooms, we’ll explore how to build inclusive literacy environments that affirm students’ cultural and linguistic identities. You’ll learn how to audit classroom libraries for representation, design scaffolded reading experiences, and use storytelling as a tool for connection and inclusion. We’ll also discuss how family engagement and community partnerships can strengthen a school’s reading culture and invite more voices to the table.
Whether you’re a teacher, coach, or school leader, you’ll leave with concrete strategies to reimagine literacy as a transformative, student-centered practice. This session centers on the belief that literacy belongs to everyone and that every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and at home in their learning environment.
Join us to share, reflect, and co-create programs that foster both strong readers and strong communities of belonging."

Empowering Latinx Leaders: Navigating Barriers and Fostering Inclusive Educational Landscapes presented by Dr. Carmen Beck

This workshop is inspired by the transformative insights and narratives presented in the book, "Strengthening Equitable Education Through Latina Leaders' Perspectives," which highlights the profound impact of Latina leaders in shaping equitable and inclusive educational environments. Participants will engage with authors' personal stories, testimonios, and scholarly analyses that examine systemic barriers in educational leadership and explore pathways for transformation.

Beyond Rankings: Why Every District Must Tell Their Story presented by Lynette White and Dr. Don Austin

Even the highest-performing districts can't rely on reputation alone. Join Dr. Don Austin, Superintendent of California's #1-ranked school district, as he shares why PAUSD made the strategic decision to embrace social media storytelling and a comprehensive communications strategy. This session will demonstrate that regardless of your district's perceived "status," proactive narrative control and authentic community engagement are essential for building trust, transparency, and lasting community support.

A Shared Vision of MTSS presented by Vanessa Cockroft

Transforming education begins with a shared vision—one that unites educators, families, and communities around inclusive, student-centered supports. This session equips participants with strategies to collaboratively design, communicate, and sustain a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) that is co-owned by all stakeholders. Grounded in models of systems change and authentic family engagement, attendees will explore how to “start with why,” challenge preconceived notions, and engage families not as passive recipients but as vital partners. Participants will leave with practical tools for building trust, aligning perspectives, and fostering sustained collaboration that advances equity and outcomes for all students.

Data Literacy and Ethical Analytics in Education: Empowering Improvement While Avoiding Harmful Labels presented by Steve Ayon

The Power of Data-Driven Education
In today's educational landscape, data literacy has emerged as a fundamental competency for driving continuous improvement. When educators possess the skills to collect, analyze, and interpret educational data effectively, they can make evidence-based decisions that directly impact student outcomes. This presentation explores how strategic implementation of analytics transforms educational practices, enabling schools to identify learning gaps, optimize resource allocation, and personalize interventions for maximum effectiveness.
Data-driven approaches allow educational leaders to move beyond intuition and anecdotal evidence toward systematic improvement processes. Through comprehensive analytics, schools can track progress in real-time, measure intervention effectiveness, and adapt strategies based on concrete evidence rather than assumptions.

The Dark Side of Predictive Analytics
However, the increasing use of predictive models in education presents serious ethical concerns when these tools are misused to label students. Research demonstrates that algorithmic bias disproportionately affects minority students, with predictive models incorrectly identifying 19% of Black students and 21% of Latinx students as likely to fail when they would actually succeed—nearly double the rate for White students.
These harmful labeling practices create self-fulfilling prophecies, where negative predictions become reality through lowered expectations and reduced opportunities. Students internalize these algorithmic judgments, while educators unconsciously adjust their teaching approaches, perpetuating rather than addressing educational inequities.

Demonstrating Responsible Analytics with theLCAP Buddy
This presentation will showcase theLCAP Buddy, an innovative platform that exemplifies ethical educational analytics. Unlike systems that label individual students, theLCAP Buddy focuses on aggregate analysis and equity gap identification, providing actionable insights without stigmatizing learners. Through live demonstration, we'll explore how this tool transforms California's LCAP compliance process while prioritizing student dignity and educational equity over harmful predictive labeling.

Equity by Design: A Student Researcher's Vision for Al in Education presented by Avinash Prasad and Dr. Marianne Gribbon

Educational inequities continue to limit access and opportunity for millions of students, especially those from historically marginalized communities. At the same time, rapid advances in artificial intelligence offer new tools that, when designed responsibly, can help close these gaps. In this session, high school researcher and youth equity advocate Avinash Prasad explores how Al can strengthen the Q10 framework's vision of whole-child, culturally responsive, and inclusive education.

Drawing on his Al research at the UC Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program, Avinash explains how machine learning systems learn patterns, how bias enters algorithms, and why transparent data practices are essential to creating fair and supportive learning environments. He connects this technical insight with his community equity work as host of the DisEDvantage podcast, founder of the first California chapter of Birthday Wishes, and member of both the Teen Advisory Council and his school's Al Club. These experiences inform a youth perspective on what students actually need to thrive.

The presentation demonstrates how Al can directly support Q10 elements, including Universal Design for Learning, Response to Intervention, SEL, Trauma-Informed Practices, and Culturally Responsive Practices by enabling personalized instruction, early identification of barriers, and inclusive learning pathways. Avinash also addresses the importance of responsible Al design, diverse datasets, and human-centered guardrails to ensure technology amplifies equity rather than undermines it.

Bringing together research, youth voice, and systems-level thinking, this session offers a compelling vision for how Al can help schools create environments where every learner is seen, supported, and empowered.

Say It, Feel It, Become It: How Language & the Body Shape Possibility and Performance presented by Trish Keller

We don't describe our reality with language - we create it. In this experiential session, we'll explore how the words we speak, the stories we repeat, and the body states we live in either accelerate growth or reinforce limitation.

Rooted in Brain-Body Literacy™™ and emotional intelligence, this session reveals how language is a powerful technology of transformation. When paired with embodied practices, it becomes a catalyst for shifting narratives, sparking clarity, and creating new outcomes - in leadership, learning, and life.

We'll examine the connection between language, emotion, and action, and how to use small shifts in words and movement to unlock new pathways for well-being, performance, and authentic leadership.

Whether you're leading a team, a classroom, or yourself, this session will change the way you speak, move, and lead.

Transforming Learning With AI: A Whole-Child, Equity-First Approach presented by Dr. Stacy Chang, Dr. Dominic Nguyen, and Norma E. Martinez

Discover how the Science of Reading (SoR) transforms classroom instruction for K–12 learners. This session equips educators with developmentally appropriate, research-based strategies grounded in the Simple View of Reading and aligned with Common Core State Standards.

Participants will explore multisensory, explicit, and systematic approaches to phonemic awareness, decoding, and oral language development, practices increasingly adopted by neighboring districts to support literacy growth at all grade levels. These evidence-based routines are effective for diverse learners, including multilingual students and those needing targeted interventions.

The session also highlights how structured literacy tools, such as free-access resources, artificial intelligence, and Lexia® programs in neighboring districts can enhance implementation and accelerate student progress. Participants will leave with inclusive, engaging, and standards-aligned strategies that can be applied immediately to close literacy gaps and support reading success from early childhood through high school.

Join us to elevate your literacy practice with actionable tools grounded in equity and science.

Building Inclusive Literacy Programs: A Pathway to Belonging for Every Learner presented by Catherine Manawatao Gassner

"Literacy is more than decoding words on a page—it’s a powerful vehicle for identity, access, and belonging. In diverse classrooms, especially those with multilingual learners, literacy instruction can either widen gaps or build bridges. This interactive session invites educators to reimagine literacy programs as inclusive, equity-centered spaces where every learner sees themselves reflected, valued, and empowered.

Through practical examples from middle school classrooms, we’ll explore how to build inclusive literacy environments that affirm students’ cultural and linguistic identities. You’ll learn how to audit classroom libraries for representation, design scaffolded reading experiences, and use storytelling as a tool for connection and inclusion. We’ll also discuss how family engagement and community partnerships can strengthen a school’s reading culture and invite more voices to the table.

Whether you’re a teacher, coach, or school leader, you’ll leave with concrete strategies to reimagine literacy as a transformative, student-centered practice. This session centers on the belief that literacy belongs to everyone and that every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and at home in their learning environment.

Join us to share, reflect, and co-create programs that foster both strong readers and strong communities of belonging."