Bridge to Belonging: Inclusive Education Conference

 




Bridge to Belonging: Inclusive Education Conference

I am honored to be speaking at the Bridge to Belonging: Inclusive Education Conference, hosted by the California Council for Exceptional Children (CA CEC), 2Teach Global, and the CSUN Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL). This event will take place on February 26-27, 2025, at CSUN (18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge, CA 91330).

This conference is designed to equip educators and administrators with practical strategies to support inclusive education. It offers an invaluable professional development opportunity, providing insights and resources that can inspire meaningful practices in classrooms and beyond.

A special thank you to Dr. Wendy Murawski and her dedicated team for their hard work in organizing this impactful event and bringing together professionals committed to fostering inclusivity in education.

Our Presentation:

My colleague and I, representing the Refugee Educational Support Program (RESPite), will present:

Fostering Belonging for Refugee Students and Families: Comprehensive Support Strategies

Session Description:
This session explores effective strategies to create a sense of belonging for refugee students and their families. Learn how the RESPite program at LAUSD provides tailored support through cultural competency, personalized attention, and collaboration with community partners. Discover practical, inclusive approaches that foster resilience and strengthen connections among case managers, resource navigators, students, and families.

About Our Team from RESPite:

Dr. Soraya Fallah

Dr. Fallah combines advocacy, research, and personal experience in her work with refugee and newcomer students and families. As part of LAUSD’s Refugee Educational Support Program (RESPite) team, she leads initiatives addressing the needs of newcomer refugees, including Afghan, Ukrainian, Latinx, and other communities. Dr. Fallah is also an associate at 2Teach Global and a published author of journal articles, books, and book chapters. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to equity, inclusivity, and community engagement.

Fun Fact: She turns every challenge into an opportunity for outreach, community partnership, and advocacy—and when searching for the perfect cup of tea to fuel her work, she somehow ends up with ten… because why settle for just one?

Mr. Alvaro Castellanos Rodriguez

Mr. Castellanos Rodriguez is a Student & Family Resource Navigator for the Refugee Program within Los Angeles Unified School District - Region East. Passionate and dedicated, he goes above and beyond to support refugee families from diverse backgrounds. He advocates for family support, student well-being, and academic success, ensuring that families receive the resources they need.

Fun Fact: He enjoys jet skiing and swimming during the summer, always looking for new people to share the adventure with!

Event Information & Registration:

CSUN CTL Event Page: CSUN CTL Event
California CEC Event Page: CA CEC Conference

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