Over 500 educators, administrators and community partners from across Los Angeles County gathered at the Westin Long Beach for the second annual Equity and Wellbeing Conference, held October 29 and 30. Organized by the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), the two-day event built on the success of its inaugural year, offering a dynamic space for learning, healing and collective action.

This year’s theme, Empowering Voices, Transforming Communities, Advancing Wellbeing for All, was brought to life through a powerful lineup of keynote speakers and over 30 breakout sessions. Attendees explored topics ranging from culturally responsive education and equity-centered leadership to mental health, immigrant support and inclusive storytelling.

Keynote Speakers Inspired and Challenged

The conference opened with a keynote by Dr. Tyrone C. Howard, Pritzker Family Endowed Chair and professor of education in the School of Education & Information Studies at UCLA, with a compelling talk on race, culture and educational equity, emphasizing the urgency of belonging and repair in schools. Dr. Bettina L. Love, renowned author and activist, followed with an address inspired from her acclaimed book Punished for Dreaming, urging educators to reimagine systems that center healing and justice for African American children. Dr. Roberto Rivera and Meena Srinivasan rounded out the keynote roster, sharing insights on culturally sustaining practices and mindfulness-based leadership.

Breakout Sessions Fostered Dialogue and Innovation

Across both days, attendees engaged in sessions led by educators, researchers and community leaders. Highlights included:

• LACOE’s GENIUS Initiative presented on Supporting the African American Learner: Let's Do This Together!! led by Drs. Makeisa Gaines and Sonja Johnson

• Mental Health First by Esther Deth of Erika’s Lighthouse, focusing on student empowerment through mental health education.

• Affirming LGBTQIA+ Students in a post-Mahmoud v. Taylor era, led by Tonya Moore.

Workshops also included wellness activities such as a wellness room and sound bath sessions, continuing the tradition of centering educator and student wellbeing.

A Space for Connection and Community

The conference served as a vibrant hub for networking, reflection and collaboration. Attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to connect with peers, share best practices, learn actionable strategies and engage in meaningful conversations about equity and inclusion. The beachside venue added a restorative dimension to the experience, aligning with the conference’s commitment to holistic wellbeing.

For more information and resources from the conference, visit lacoe.edu/ewb.