Solution Tree Associate, Dr. Luis Cruz, is a sought-after presenter, coach, thought leader, and accomplished author in the field of education. His over 30 years of practical experience as a teacher and an administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, coupled with his ability to effectively communicate research-based approaches focused on the need to ensure high levels of learning for all students, has earned him acknowledgment and praise from an array of education communities around the country. Click HERE for Dr. Cruz' bio.

He will provide 2 keynotes to all AUSD educators on 8/4 and 1/6 that are focused on the power and impact of Professional Learning Communities in public education.  He will set the stage by taking educators through the PLC process and how to ensure each campus community has laser like focus on learning within a collaborative culture that creates a results orientation leading to sustained, substantive school improvement.  In addition, he will continue to help educators stay focused on the importance of culturally responsive, anti-racist educational practices and strategies.

 Both sessions (8/4 and 1/6) will be held at the Los Medanos Community College (LMC) campus at 2700 East Leland Road in Pittsburg in their state-of-the-art Student Union. All certificated staff will attend the LMC keynotes this year. Food will not be provided, but beverages will be available. Parking Permits are NOT required for these events.

Below is the schedule for the August 4th Staff Development Day:

Monday 8/4/25 Overview: 

Session One: Elementary Sites at LMC and Secondary Sites at School Sites 

Lunch On Your Own

Session Two: Secondary Sites at LMC and Elementary Sites at School Sites 

LMC Specific Schedule: 

Session 1: Elementary 

7:45-8:00am Arrival and Swag Bag Distribution 

8:00-8:45am: Welcome/Convocation with Dr. Williams

8:45-9:00am: LMC Overview and Information

9:00-11:15am: Keynote with Dr. Cruz

11:15-11:30am Closing

Session 2: Secondary

**Secondary (secondary sites need to conclude their morning session no later than 11:00am to provide 45 minutes for lunch and travel to LMC). 

11:45-12:00pm: Arrival and Swag Bag Distribution 

12:00-12:45pm-: Welcome/Convocation with Dr. Williams

12:45-1:00pm: LMC Overview and Information

1:00-3:15pm: Keynote with Dr. Cruz

3:15-3:30pm: Closing

**Our staff development date, 10/13, will provide time for staff to go deeper into their implementation planning and work on site based goals. More information about the October session will be posted in September so check back then!