Hundreds Gather at EMBRACE Symposium to Champion Equity in Education

Nearly 500 educators and community members from Kern County and beyond gathered at the Mechanics Bank Convention Center for the 4th Annual EMBRACE Kern Equity Symposium, marking the first day of this impactful two-day event. Wednesday was filled with inspirational keynote speeches, engaging entertainment, insightful breakout sessions, and powerful conversations aimed at fostering equitable transformation in education.

Since its launch in 2019, EMBRACE, hosted by KCSOS and the 21st Century California School Leadership Academy, has served as a vital platform for discussions, strategies, and actionable plans focused on educational equity. This year’s symposium features nearly 50 breakout sessions led by representatives from various Kern County school districts, county offices of education, and outside organizations. 

According to Candi Huizar, director of equity and inclusion at KCSOS, the symposium is the largest since its inception. It covers a wide range of topics, from family engagement and supporting students with disabilities to how to become an equity-minded leader and everything in between. The high turnout reflects the critical need for these discussions in Kern County.

“We have grown more comfortable talking about equity and making sure we dispel some of the misconceptions people might have,” Huizar said. “At the end of the day, we’re focused on creating a sense of belonging for students, which is hard to argue against.”

The day began with a keynote address from Ken Williams, author of Ruthless Equity: Disrupt the Status Quo and Ensure Learning for ALL Students. Williams, a former teacher and school administrator, is known for his “heart, humor, and hammer” approach. He captivated the audience with a powerful message about educational equity, emphasizing that achieving true equity requires a “ruthless” commitment to breaking down systemic barriers and holding all students and educators to high expectations.

Williams discussed how traditional approaches often fall short because they need more decisive action to address inequities head-on. He emphasized that equity means not accepting excuses and providing the support necessary to help every student succeed. Williams likened equity-minded educators to athletic coaches who push individuals to reach their highest potential by setting high standards and relentlessly removing obstacles, regardless of their circumstances. 

“Achieving equity means having a shared goal for all kids no matter who they are, where they’re from, or how much money their family makes,” Williams said.

He says the bigger issue, the one keeping equity from becoming a reality, is that our systems nationwide have given complete control to student demographics. 

“Demographics are seen as the most important factor in schools, but I see it differently,” he said. “We should focus on making an impact on each student, regardless of demographics.”

Williams’s keynote set the tone for the day, inspiring attendees to adopt a “no-excuses” mindset and commit to creating a learning environment where all students can thrive, be resilient, and be prepared for the future.

“We need to be experts who act and happen to students, not the other way around,” he said. “I believe the most powerful force in education occurs when teachers decide that a student is going to learn. That synergy becomes an unstoppable force.”

While conversations and learning were deep, attendees enjoyed numerous entertainment highlights from young performers throughout the day.

“It was really important to our steering committee that we have as many students involved in the event as possible,” Huizar said.

Youth hip-hop dancers from DAT Krew Academy and Folklorico dancers from the Di Giorgio School District wowed the audience. The Wasco Steel Drum Band performed during the lunch break, energizing attendees for the afternoon sessions. Throughout the day, Teresa Burnett, also known as DJ B Diamond, showed that Down syndrome hasn’t deterred her from following her passion.

The day concluded with a keynote address by Dr. Nancy Dome, renowned speaker, author, and equity consultant. Dome inspired attendees to approach equity work with courage and compassion. Attendees left motivated, equipped with new insights, and eager to return for day two, which is set to kick off with the announcement of the annual Equity Champion honorees. 

“As educators, we’re all committed to improving student outcomes,” Huizar said. “This is one of many events offered to let us do that important work.”