A standout moment was the dynamic panel, “Waging War Against Inequities: Principals as Courageous Change Agents,” which elevated site leaders who are actively disrupting inequitable practices on their campuses. Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) Directors Juan Ortiz (Department of English Learners and Multilanguage Learners) and Dr. Kathrine Morillo-Shone (Department of Equity & Professional Learning) framed the session as a call to courageous, deliberate leadership—where equity becomes daily action, not just theory.
Principal panelists Ashely Hedrick (Ranch Hills), Maria Martinez (Westmont), and Dr. Camille Ramos-Beal (Village Academy) shared how they’ve used data and learning walks to uncover opportunity gaps, faced resistance with persistence, and created cultures where staff are empowered to engage in hard conversations that lead to real change. “Equity is a relay,” Dr. Shone said. “And today, these leaders have passed you the baton.”
Deputy Superintendent Lilia Fuentes opened the institute with a charge to reimagine school systems so every student can thrive. Additional sessions included instructional coaching, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) alignment, legal guidance, and strategies for fostering safe and inclusive campuses.
In a powerful example of servant leadership, Superintendent Darren Knowles stepped away from the podium and behind the grill, barbecuing for every administrator at the institute. It was a simple yet meaningful gesture that underscored the importance of humility, service, and connection in leadership.
This year’s Summer Admin. Institute concluded with a bang, powered by dynamic facilitators and longtime district equity partners Dr. Eddie Fergus and Dr. Tonya Leslie. They led all administrators in a transformative session focused on leveraging the CARES framework—Culturally Responsive, Antiracist, and Equitable Systems—to address hate speech and foster deeply inclusive school communities. With a clear call to action, they emphasized the vital role of principals and administrators as key culture and climate builders, as well as equity disruptors, committed to shaping safe, respectful, and affirming environments for all students and staff.
Leaders concluded the week by sharing their commitments for the 2025–2026 school year—ready to lead with vision, act with purpose, and drive equitable outcomes across the Pomona Unified School District.