Santa Ana Unified School District has taken a revolutionary approach to their foundational work by making family and community engagement central to developing their core values, vision, and mission. This powerful conversation brings together Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Program Coordinator Elisa Briceño-Sandoval and dedicated parent committee member Maribel Texta to reveal the transformative journey of collaborative leadership.

Values aren't just words on paper - they're the driving force behind every decision and action within a school community. Elisa eloquently explains how principles like faith, integrity, family, and love guide both personal conduct and professional leadership. Meanwhile, Maribel shares how her commitment to inclusive equity, empathy, and engagement has shaped her advocacy for her children and all students within the district. Their perspectives illuminate how personal values intertwine with institutional mission to create educational environments where everyone can thrive.

The true innovation in Santa Ana's approach lies in their deliberate inclusion of diverse voices throughout the process. By bringing together families, students, staff, and administrators, the district ensured their guiding principles authentically reflected community needs and aspirations. Maribel's firsthand account of committee participation reveals effective strategies for meaningful parent engagement: offering translation services, creating welcoming atmospheres, practicing genuine empathy, and valuing diverse perspectives regardless of background or language. Her practical advice for other parents who want to make their voices heard provides a roadmap for increased family involvement across all schools.

Subscribe to Better Together to explore more conversations about family engagement, collaborative leadership, and how schools and communities can work together to create exceptional educational experiences for every student. What core values guide your approach to education and community?

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