Dear CASCWA Members and Friends,

Let me start by welcoming you all back to the start of the 2023-24 school year.  It seems like these summer breaks just get shorter and shorter.

Let’s talk about the recent 2023 CASCWA State Conference in Fresno for a minute.  With close to 85 breakout sessions to choose from, great keynote speakers, and the opportunity to network, learn from experts, see students and adults recognized for their contributions and accomplishments, and the opportunity to socialize with fellow educators from throughout the state, the host San Joaquin section and section president Sharm Uma should be congratulated for hosting another outstanding event.

To the close to 600 attendees, thank you for being there and I hope the conference was everything you hoped it would be, particularly for those who were attending for the first time.  And may I remind you all that with your conference registrations you received a one-year membership in CASCWA, so please contact your section President to see how you too can become more involved in this amazing organization.  You can find all of the section President names and contact information in this edition of Intercom and the CASCWA website.  Believe me, they are waiting to hear from you. 

 And it is not too early to mark your calendars for the 2024 CASCWA State Conference hosted by the Bay Section in Monterey, CA at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, April 24-26, 2024.  You will be able to find conference and hotel registration information in the Intercom as well as on the CASCWA website.

We were so pleased to see so many hands raised in response to the question at the conference luncheon on Thursday inquiring about how many of you were attending your first CASCWA State Conference.  And in speaking with several of you, I heard comments about how encouraging it was for you to meet and share with people who shared similar concerns and viewpoints regarding the issues affecting the care and welfare of our students and families.  This organization is really unlike any other in that it really is like belonging to a large family, where there are those always willing to share, assist, and collaborate when you need someone to turn to for knowledge, advice, and support.

Don’t forget to check the Intercom and website for additional in-services and learning opportunities throughout the year hosted by the sections throughout the state.  As I write this, the next one I am aware of is the San Joaquin section, in partnership with the Stanislaus County Office of Education is holding their annual attendance certification training August 31-September 1 in Modesto, CA, and I know the Southern section typically holds a training in October.

In closing, please give serious consideration to becoming more involved in your section and become a part of the next wave of educators that carries CASCWA into the future.    It may lead you to one day assume a leadership role, whether intended or not (lol), and maybe even to becoming the state president.  But take it from me, what it will do is allow you to not only enhance your opportunity for professional growth, but meet and develop friendships with some truly remarkable people.  Have a great school year.

Dr. Kevin Torosian

President, CASCWA State Board