A message from Heather Pilgrim
President, ACSA Region 11

It is an honor to serve as your ACSA Region 11 President for the year ahead. I am excited to walk alongside each of you as we continue the important work of leading our schools and districts with vision, purpose, and heart.

This year’s ACSA theme, Reflect Every Story, Lead with Purpose, reminds us that leadership is not only about moving forward but also about taking time to reflect—on the students we serve, the staff we support, and the communities we guide. I encourage each of you to reflect on your own leadership journey and consider how your story connects with and uplifts the stories of those around you. At each region meeting, members will get the opportunity to share their stories for others to reflect and learn.  

The region’s 3-year strategic plan centers on:

1 – Professional Learning
2 – Membership Recruitment/Retention
3 – Advocacy

At every meeting, members will have the opportunity to learn from one another by listening to their stories and from a Cultural Navigator that will remind us of how to connect to the whole child. Each charter will be able to showcase one “Rookie-Rockstar” at every meeting in hopes of increasing the region’s membership. And lastly, the region’s dedication to advocacy will continue by finding ways to continuously reach out to our legislators to show support for our districts.

As a region, we are more than colleagues—we are a network of peers who share the joys and challenges of this calling. My hope is that Region 11 continues to be a place where leaders come together to exchange ideas, strengthen one another, and celebrate the work happening across our schools. By supporting and lifting each other up, we model the very collaboration and resilience we strive to instill in our students.

I look forward to the year ahead and to the opportunity to connect with each of you as we reflect, lead, and grow together.

With gratitude and purpose,

Heather Pilgrim, Ed.S.
President
ACSA Region 11
Superintendent
Oak Valley Union Elementary School District
(559) 688-2002