2026 Central Valley Education Justice Forum
Saturday April 18, 2026, 9:30 AM to 2 PM
Modesto, CA
Purpose of This Forum
Join us this April for a transformative community forum bringing together activists, parents, community members, and partners committed to dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. This dynamic event serves as a space to connect with our dedicated organizers, find regional support, and collectively work toward creating a brighter, more equitable future for our youth. Together, we can create safer, more supportive environments for every child.
At this critical moment for our schools, parent leadership is essential. Parents are not just participants in the education system—they are organizers, advocates, and powerful voices shaping the future of their communities. This forum is designed to strengthen that power by building relationships, sharing knowledge, and developing strategies that help families take action in their schools and districts.
What To Expect
- Hear from keynote speaker Ursula Dewitt on building parent power and organizing for meaningful change in our schools..
- Meet and network with regional organizers and like-minded advocates.
- Take the pledge to stand against the school-to-prison pipeline.
- Access actionable resources to implement change in your community.
This event is more than a forum-it’s a movement-building moment to inspire lasting change in our communities. Join us in mobilizing for education justice and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • ACT FAST. SPACE IS LIMITED
🧭 Educational Advocacy & Systems Navigation
Participants will build a stronger understanding of how to navigate complex school systems, understand their rights, and advocate effectively for their children and communities. Sessions will also introduce pathways to engage in decision-making spaces and influence education policy.
🌱 Leadership in Action
Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, parents and caregivers will strengthen their leadership skills and deepen their role as organizers in their schools and communities.
🤝 Community Building & Network Development
At the heart of the forum is connection. Parents and caregivers will build relationships with other families, organizers, and community leaders across the Central Valley — creating a network rooted in shared experiences, collective learning, and long-term advocacy.
📣 From Learning to Action
This is not just a learning space — it’s a launching point. Parents and caregivers will leave with clear next steps, opportunities to plug into ongoing campaigns, and ways to stay engaged in building education justice across the region.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • SPACE IS LIMITED
Partner Organizations
CVMB Education Justice Forum
Modesto,CA
#EducationJustice
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • ACT FAST. SPACE IS LIMITED
ACTIONS
Let’s End the School-to-Prison Pipeline
The school-to-prison pipeline is a systemic issue that disproportionately affects marginalized students, pushing them out of educational institutions and into the criminal justice system. Addressing this requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach that prioritizes restorative justice, supportive resources, and equitable education policies. Here are three key strategies that can help dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline and create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.
Implement Restorative Justice Practices
Replace zero-tolerance policies and punitive measures with restorative justice practices that focus on healing, reconciliation, and community building, rather than punishment.
Invest in Supportive Resources
Increase funding for school counselors, mental health services, and extracurricular programs that foster positive student behavior and academic success.
Promote Equitable Education Policies
Advocate for policies that address systemic racial and socioeconomic disparities in education, such as equitable school funding, culturally relevant curriculum, and teacher diversity.