The 2026 CSBA Counties Governance Workshop will focus on a core responsibility of county boards — serving homeless and foster youth.
Happening March 11-12 at the Sheraton San Diego Resort, the workshop’s first time in San Diego, attendees will take part in informative and impactful general sessions, micro-trainings, activities, meal functions, networking opportunities and more.
CSBA Director of County Board Member Services Mike Walsh said the planning committee thoughtfully developed the workshop content so participants can hear real-life stories that illustrate the challenges that foster and homeless youth face and learn what meaningful support looks like to help students reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances.
In one session, for example, experts from the Los Angeles County Office of Education will delve into the Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program (FYSCP) and its role in supporting the academic success, stability and well-being of students in foster care. Attendees will learn about the purpose and requirements of the FYSCP, key services and supports provided to students in foster care, and how COEs collaborate with school districts, child welfare, probation and community partners.
In a discussion bringing together leaders from Just Advocates and Fostering Promise, panelists will explore how education systems, child welfare and community partners can align to improve outcomes for foster youth. Presenters will share how lived experience, governance leadership and cross-system collaboration can drive lasting change — providing trustees and superintendents with concrete insights on their unique roles in shaping policies and partnerships that center student voice, stability and long-term success. Read an interview with one of the panelists on page 8 of this newsletter.
Attendees can also expect to hear about Riverside COE’s Foster Youth Success Initiative, recent research on foster youth and other relevant topics.
COE leaders shouldn’t miss this chance to strengthen their skills, expand their network and solidify their role as an advocate for students.
“The MIG 1 county training is really about that foundational piece of what it means to be a board member, and the concept of how much training and how much knowledge it takes to be the practitioners of our work,” Walsh said. “MIG 1 County is a fantastic opportunity to get together and have those conversations.”
