You Belong Here – ACSA Region 7, Leading Strong
It’s a privilege to serve alongside an incredible collection of leaders across Region 7. The expertise, experience, and determination to ensure our students receive the very best education they deserve is nothing short of amazing. Region 7 is setting the tone across the state that leadership matters, and that together in this work, we can make an incredible difference for our students.
This collective energy creates more than leadership momentum—it’s infectious and an invitation for others to join in this great work. As an educational leader in Region 7, I am proud to help perpetuate this work and share that sense of connection with ACSA and the broader world of education across California.
I am excited to invite others to extend this hand of connection. This year, it’s our mission to convey to all of our leaders that “You Belong Here!” Here in this work, here in this community, here in the deeply fulfilling purpose of making a difference—you belong here. We need your expertise, your vision, and the skills and passions you bring to expand our capacity and continually improve our work for students.
My goal this year is to carry this message broadly, creating an environment where leaders across Region 7 know that their leadership in education matters. Share this message with me this year! Extend your hand, invite others to join, and look broadly across your community—who needs to join us? Who needs to be here? This is their space; they belong here too! Be that extension, that invitation, that inspiration that someone once was to you!
This year, we have so many great ways to get involved. Join us at one of our regional General Membership Assemblies, the Fall Mini Conference, or our annual Tahoe Retreat. These events are just a taste of the great things happening in addition to the vibrant communities and events in each of our charters and State ACSA. There are many ways to professionally engage, learn, grow, interact, and inspire. Join us with confidence, knowing you belong!
As we kick off the school year, I invite you to join me in this message: “You Belong Here!” and your leadership matters so much to the work that we do across Region 7 every day. Together, we will continue this important work, ensuring our students, schools, and communities get the very best education they deserve. Whether you are in Amador, Calaveras, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, or Tuolumne, “You Belong Here.”
I can’t wait to see you and celebrate your work across Region 7! Keep leading strong, every day!
Ben Howell, Ed.D.
President, ACSA Region 7 2026-2027