The 2026 CSBA Counties Conference will take place from Sept. 25-27, 2026, at the Marina del Rey Marriott in Marina del Rey, CA. 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!
Submit your proposals now to present at the conference! Click here to learn more about proposal deadlines and conference strands.
Location
Marina del Rey Marriott
4100 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Program
Friday-Sunday, Sept. 25-27, 2026
Call for Proposals
CSBA is seeking innovative and engaging ideas for the 2026 CSBA Counties Conference. County trustees are encouraged to submit proposals that will spark meaningful discussions and collaborative learning opportunities. Share your expertise in workshop sessions that dive deep into the specific themes or challenges most relevant to county board members. Proposals are being accepted through Friday, June 12.
Click here to view the submissions form.
Proposals should correspond to one or more of the major strands identified for this year’s conference:
Advocacy, Governance and Policy: Leading for Impact
Shaping policy and strengthening systems for student success
This strand focuses on the critical role county board of education members and superintendents play in advocacy, governance and policymaking. Sessions will explore strategies for effective engagement with local, state and federal decision-makers, building coalitions to improve student outcomes and the board’s role in setting long-term educational priorities.
Potential topics include:
- Advocacy strategies for securing resources and legislative support
- Strengthening partnerships with elected officials, including school district boards, to influence educational policy
- Balancing community advocacy and board leadership
- Best practices for effective governance, including board-superintendent collaboration and relationships
- Balancing policy oversight with community engagement
- Strengthening community engagement and knowledge of the role of county offices of education in public education
Funding, Workforce and Educational Access: Aligning Resources for Success
Maximizing funding and human capital to expand opportunity
This strand delves into funding strategies, workforce challenges and resource allocation to ensure all students, particularly the most vulnerable, receive a high-quality education. Sessions will address how county offices of education can leverage funding streams, improve teacher retention and enhance access to specialized programs such as career technical education (CTE), as well as strengthen the delivery of special education services.
Potential topics include:
- Connecting budget decisions to long-term student success
- Managing special education and legal costs
- Exploring workforce housing
- Addressing staffing shortages
- Expanding career pathways for students through public-private partnerships
- Navigating state and federal funding opportunities for countywide programs
Student Well-Being, Safety and Success: Supporting Vulnerable Youth and the Whole Child
Creating safe, inclusive and equitable learning environments
This strand focuses on comprehensive student support, emphasizing the role of county offices of education in ensuring that all students — particularly those facing housing instability, foster care placement or other challenges — have access to the services and supports necessary to attain a high-quality education, including a welcoming school environment. Sessions will explore policies, programs and partnerships that address key barriers to student learning and well-being.
Potential topics include:
- Addressing the unique needs of students experiencing homelessness and youth in foster care, including enrollment, transportation and stability
- Coordinating with county agencies to provide housing support, mental health services and wraparound care
- Expanding school safety policies regarding students’ physical, social-emotional and mental health, and initiating or expanding community partnerships to create secure learning environments and improve school culture
- Implementing trauma-informed and/or restorative practices in schools to better support at-promise students
- Enhancing student and family engagement through outreach and targeted resources
- Strategies to combat chronic absenteeism, address disengagement and accelerate learning recovery
- Incorporating student voice in defining success and shaping supportive school programs
Questions
Please contact countyboard@csba.org for any questions about Counties Conference, location, proposals, etc.