The 2026 CSBA Counties Conference will take place from Sept. 25-27, 2026, at the Marina del Rey Marriott in California. 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!
Registration is open for conference and spouse passes.
Event program
Explore engaging sessions and workshops across a variety of focus areas.
Click here to view the current event program and build an agenda tailored to your county office of education.
Keynote speakers
This year's lineup brings together voices from foster care advocacy, documentary filmmaking and criminal justice reform — perspectives that speak directly to the students and communities county offices serve every day.
Saturday, 9/26
|
Shaun Kadlec | Award-winning documentary filmmaker
A Fulbright Fellow and first-generation college graduate, Kadlec makes films that explore human experience with empathy and humor. His documentary "Possible Selves" won the 2025 Los Angeles Area Emmy for best independent programming.
|
|
Alex Ballantyne | Foster youth advocate and student, UC Santa Barbara
After 18 years in the child welfare system, Ballantyne now advocates for foster youth policy reform. A philosophy student at UCSB, he serves on boards expanding educational access for youth in foster care.
|
Sunday, 9/27
|
Damon West, M.S. Criminal Justice | Best-selling author and criminal justice advocate
A former Division I quarterback, West's journey through addiction and a life sentence became the foundation for a career in advocacy. A four-time best-selling author and college professor, he speaks on recovery, accountability and redemption.
|
Travel information
Parking: Discounted overnight parking is available for registered guests at a rate of $49 per vehicle, per night. Daily event parking is available for $29 per vehicle, per day.
Additional public parking is also located across the street at the Marina del Rey public lot. Please note that rates vary, are subject to change, and in-and-out privileges are not available. Learn more »
Airport: Located just 4 miles away, Santa Monica Municipal Airport is the closest airport to the Marina del Rey Marriott – approximately a 15 to 20-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located just 5.2 miles away from the Marina del Rey Marriott – approximately a 20 to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Marina del Rey Visitor Guide
The Marina del Rey Visitor Guide was created to help conference attendees make the most of their time in Marina del Rey before, during, and after the conference. Whether you're looking for a convenient place to dine, exploring local attractions, or simply finding your way around the area, this resource serves as your one-stop guide to the destination.
We encourage attendees to explore several key features within the site. The Find Your Way section provides maps and navigation tools to help you easily locate conference venues, hotels, restaurants, and nearby attractions. The Dine section highlights a variety of waterfront dining options, from casual cafés to upscale restaurants. If you have free time between sessions, the Activities and Sightseeing sections showcase local experiences, including harbor cruises, waterfront walking paths, shopping, beaches, and other attractions that make Marina del Rey one of Southern California's premier coastal destinations. Marina del Rey is known for its scenic waterfront, walkable harbor, outdoor recreation opportunities, and convenient access to many of Los Angeles' most popular attractions.
Whether you're planning a meal, looking for a relaxing way to spend an evening, or seeking recommendations for extending your stay, the Visitor Guide is designed to help you enjoy everything Marina del Rey has to offer.
Notices
Please view our event policies by clicking on the Code of Conduct and Event Notices. Direct all cancellation and refund requests to register@csba.org.
Accessibility
CSBA is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all attendees. The following services are available to ensure full participation in the event:
- Wheelchair accessibility: The venue is fully accessible, including wheelchair access to seating areas, restrooms, and entrances. If additional assistance is needed, please inform us prior to the event.
- Mobility rentals: Attendees who require a wheelchair or scooter are welcome to rent one from a local provider. Please note that CSBA does not provide, store, or coordinate these rentals. Attendees are responsible for arranging mobility device rentals, including wheelchairs and scooters. CSBA is not liable for storage or security of these devices.
- Reserved seating: Accessible seating for individuals with mobility impairments can be provided. Requests for reserved seating should be made ahead of time to ensure availability.
If you require additional accommodations or have specific needs related to mobility, vision, hearing, food sensitivities or other areas, please contact us at countyboard@csba.org at least 72 hours prior to the event. While we will make every effort to accommodate your needs, please note that late requests may not be able to be fully accommodated. We will provide guidance on how to reserve these services and ensure that necessary arrangements are made to support your participation.
Questions
Whether you're looking for details about registration, event logistics, or participation guidelines, please contact countyboard@csba.org.
Sponsor this event
The Counties Conference is scheduled to take place from Sept. 25-27, 2026, at the Marina del Rey Marriott, California. This conference is specifically designed for county board members seeking professional development and networking opportunities that focus on specific issues and highlight best practices and new ideas that address the unique circumstances of county boards and the students they serve.
Past keynote speakers included California State Board of Education President Linda Darling Hammond, Zoom Founder/CEO Eric Yuan, motivational speaker and author Chris Gardner, and other dignitaries. The event typically attracts around 150 attendees, including county board members, superintendents, staff and guest speakers.
View the sponsorship guide or contact CSBA at sponsor@csba.org for more information.
Thank you to our 2026 sponsors:
Platinum Level sponsor
Capitol Advisors
Elevo
Gold Level sponsor
SitelogIQ
Zen Educate
California Lottery