State of Education Event to Address Key Educational Developments and Community Initiatives in Santa Maria Valley
[SANTA MARIA, CA. April 2, 2025] - Local leaders will come together to share insights into current initiatives and future plans for supporting students, schools and workforce development in the region at the annual State of Education event, scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. PDT at the Santa Maria Fairpark, Fountain Pavilion, located at 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria, CA 93458.
Hosted by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, the event will include presentations from the Santa Barbara County Education Office and Allan Hancock College, providing a comprehensive update on the state of education in Santa Maria Valley.
The event will feature Susan Salcido, Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools, joined by superintendents from the Santa Maria Valley school districts, including Dr. Holly Edds, Antonio Garcia, Emilio Handall and Dr. Darren McDuffie. They will discuss their ongoing efforts to enhance educational outcomes and foster collaboration among school districts.
In addition, Dr. Kevin Walthers, Superintendent/President of Allan Hancock College, will address the importance of higher education in workforce preparation. Dr. Walthers will provide an overview of the new collaboration with Cal Poly on the 2+2 bachelor’s degree program, and highlight key programs designed to promote career readiness and align educational outcomes with the needs of the local workforce.
This gathering serves as an important opportunity for educators, community stakeholders and local leaders to come together and discuss the educational priorities and initiatives shaping the future of Santa Barbara County.
“Schools across Santa Barbara County are committed to preparing students for both higher education and the careers of tomorrow. In the Santa Maria Valley, we’re especially fortunate to have partners like the Chamber helping to bridge the gap between education and industry. By actively engaging local businesses, they’re helping create rigorous, relevant, and real-world learning opportunities for students. The State of Education event is a powerful opportunity to learn how you and your organization can be part of this meaningful work,” said Salcido.
“Every investment we make in education is an investment in our students—and in the future of our region,” said Dr. Walthers. “At Hancock, we are focused on providing the programs and partnerships that help local students gain the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive and succeed right here in Northern Santa Barbara County.”
Registration is required by April 23, 2025. For more information or to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/StateofEducation25.
About the Santa Maria Valley Chamber
The Santa Maria Valley Chamber is committed to advocating for businesses, driving economic development, and enhancing regional prosperity. Through strategic partnerships, policy leadership, and economic initiatives, the Chamber plays a vital role in shaping Santa Maria’s future. For more information, visit www.santamaria.com
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