Conference Session - The Multilingual Advantage: From Student Success to Economic Opportunity

SEAL and UNITE-LA will co-present at the 2026 CLSBA Unity Conference, hosted by the California Latino School Board Association.

Session

The Multilingual Advantage: From Student Success to Economic Opportunity

Description:

At a time when bilingual education is increasingly politicized, school and district leaders play a critical role in protecting opportunities for multilingual learners and advancing policies that recognize language as an asset, not a barrier. In this interactive session, SEAL and UNITE-LA will highlight why investing in multilingual learners, dual immersion programs and biliteracy pathways—from early childhood through TK–12, postsecondary and into the workforce—is essential to maintaining California’s economic edge.
Participants will explore instructional practices, leadership strategies and district stories that improve outcomes for English Learners and all students. UNITE-LA will share new research focused on employers’ perspectives on bilingual talent, while SEAL will provide practical examples leaders can adapt locally. Participants will hear how districts, employers and bilingual communities are responding to changing educational and workforce demands and how leaders can build systems and partnerships that strengthen pathways to college, career and economic mobility.

Presenters: 

• Patricia E. Chavez, Head Development & External Relations Officer, SEAL 
• Ulises Gonzalez, Associate Director, SEAL
• AJ Lucas, Associate Director, Public Policy, UNITE-LA

About the Event

For more than 27 years, the Unity Conference has been a valuable resource for leaders.  Our event provides attendees a unique combination of professional learning, developing relationships, observing evidence-based practices and fun!  Check out our talented general session speakers and meaningful breakout sessions.  We can't wait to see you at Unity 2026!s.