State of Education 2026

Description

2026 State of Education: The Future of Education

The 2026 State of Education brings together educational leaders, business professionals, and community stakeholders to explore how our schools are preparing students for the future. This year’s program includes a moderated panel focused on the future of education.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Dr. Susan Salcido, Superintendent of Schools for Santa Barbara County, and feature superintendents from across the Santa Maria Valley. Panelists will share insights into their districts’ strategies and collaborative efforts related to student success, workforce readiness, technology, and mental health.

Following the panel discussion, Dr. Kevin Walthers, Superintendent/President of Allan Hancock College, will discuss how higher education partners with local school districts to support high school pathways, career readiness, and long-term student success.

The program will conclude with a networking reception and information tables in the reception area, offering attendees the opportunity to connect with education partners, learn about local programs, and continue the conversation.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
• Location: Allan Hancock College, Boyd Concert Hall, Fine Arts Complex (Building F), 800 South College Drive, Santa Maria, CA 93454
• Agenda:
  • 4:00 P.M.: Doors Open
  • 4:15 P.M. - 6:00 P.M: Program
  • 6:00 P.M. - 6:30 P.M: Networking Reception & Information Tables
• Cost: 
  • Chamber Members: $50.00
    
  • Educators: $50.00
  • Future Members: $65.00 
• RSVP by February 20, 2026

Information Table Participation: This option is fully booked and no longer available.

• Information tables are reserved for education-related organizations only.
• Booth availability is from 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM.
• As part of participation, we kindly ask that each information booth sponsor a teacher to attend the event.

Teacher Sponsorship

• Cost per sponsored teacher: $50
• Organizations may sponsor more than one teacher, if desired.

If you are interested in reserving an information booth and/or sponsoring one or more teachers for the 2026 State of Education, email yuliana@santamaria.com.

We appreciate your continued commitment to education and hope you will consider joining us for this important community conversation. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Please join us at our
2026 Business Expo & Job Fair May 14 2026