Overview
Empowering Voices, Transforming Communities, Advancing Wellbeing for All.
In an effort to support Los Angeles County's ongoing commitment to creating equitable learning environments where staff and students thrive, the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) is pleased to announce its third annual Equity and Wellbeing Conference.
The 2026 Equity and Wellbeing Conference is an inspiring event designed to ignite positive change in education. This dynamic gathering will feature thought-provoking keynote speakers, interactive sessions and wellness activities tailored specifically for educators. Connect with like-minded professionals, gain valuable tools for fostering equity and wellbeing and leave empowered to make a lasting impact in your community. Together, we can create an environment where every voice is heard, and every educator thrives. Don’t miss out on this transformative opportunity!
Each registration includes:
- Keynote session with Dr. Shawn Ginwright
- Over 35 interactive sessions and workshops
- Wellness activities including sound baths, therapy animals and a wellness space
- A copy of "The Four Pivots" by Dr. Shawn Ginwright
- Breakfast and lunch (both days)
- Coffee and refreshments
General
$749
Schedule at a Glance
- Day 1
- Day 2
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 7 - 8 a.m. | Registration |
| 8 - 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast with Student Performers |
| 8:30 - 8:45 a.m. | Conference Kick-Off |
| 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. | Student Panel |
| 9:15 - 9:25 a.m. | Break/Transition |
| 9:25 - 10:40 a.m. | Breakout Session I |
| 10:40 - 10:50 a.m. | Break/Transition |
| 10:50 a.m. - 12:05 p.m. | Breakout Session II |
| 12:05 - 12:15 p.m. | Break/Transition |
| 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. | Lunch with Student Performers |
| 1:15 - 2:15 p.m. | Keynote Speaker: Dr. Shawn Ginwright |
| 2:15 - 2:30 p.m. | Snack Break/Transition |
| 2:30 - 3:45 p.m. | Breakout Session III |
| 3:45 - 3:55 p.m. | Break/Transition |
| 3:55 - 4:30 p.m. | LACOE Communities of Practice |
All program details, speakers and times are subject to change.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast with Student Performers |
| 8:30 - 8:45 a.m. | Opening Session |
| 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. | Student Panel |
| 9:15 - 9:25 a.m. | Transition |
| 9:25 - 10:40 a.m. | Breakout Session I |
| 10:40 - 10:50 a.m. | Break/Transition |
| 10:50 a.m. - 12:05 p.m. | Breakout Session II |
| 12:05 - 12:15 p.m. | Break/Transition |
| 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. | Lunch with Student Performers |
| 1:15 - 1:30 p.m. | Break/Transition |
| 1:30 - 2:45 p.m. | Breakout Session III |
All program details, speakers and times are subject to change.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Shawn Ginwright
Dr. Shawn Ginwright is the Jerome T. Murphy Professor of Practice at Harvard Graduate School of Education. His groundbreaking work on trauma, healing and the empowerment of African American youth has earned him a reputation as an innovator, provocateur and thought leader in the field of education.
Dr. Ginwright's vision is rooted in his extensive experience working directly with young people in urban communities. From grassroots initiatives to serving as the chairman of the board of a $5 billion foundation, he has consistently demonstrated his passion for empowering marginalized youth.
Dr. Ginwright's research has been instrumental in reshaping the discourse surrounding youth development. His introduction of the concept of "healing-centered engagement" in 2018 has revolutionized the field, providing an asset-based approach to addressing youth trauma and fostering resilience. His work has been cited in the New York Times, and he is a highly sought-after speaker on topics ranging from civic engagement and youth activism to the transformative power of healing.
Accommodations
A discounted hotel block is available for overnight stays. If interested, review the information for a reservation.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
555 Universal Terrace Parkway
Universal City, CA 91608
Website | Map | Driving Directions
Availability:
For stays Oct. 28-30, 2026.
Special group rate: Starting at $286 USD per night
Last Day to Book: Sept. 28, 2026
Guests can also call the In-House Reservations Deptartment at 818‑623‑1434 from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday - Sunday. Please use the group code of LACOE when booking.
What Our Attendees Loved Last Year
"The vibes at the conference were immaculate. I loved networking with everyone and the shared "why" for being there with so many like-minded people. Thank you for every effort put forth to make this conference a beacon of light in a dark time in our world."
"I liked that the sessions provided practical tips, tools, and resources that schools can apply at their setting."
"The keynote speakers and breakout sessions were incredible! all relevant and practical. I enjoy the music and the tone of the urgency, I left inspired and empowered."
Photo Gallery
Become a Sponsor
We invite you to celebrate, elevate and support the LACOE 2026 Equity and Wellbeing Conference.
Our sponsorship levels provide diverse ways to promote your organization while investing in critical programming for educators, parents and community partners across Los Angeles County.
To discuss your support and ways to get involved, please contact Kerry Franco at kfranco@glaef.org
Connect with Us
Kennia DeCastro
edi@lacoe.edu
562-922-6403
