GGUSD’s Latinos Unidos Conferences Empowers Students to Lead

Thursday, January 22, 2026

The 13th annual Garden Grove Unified School District (GGUSD) Latino Unidos Conference brought together nearly 400 students for a powerful day of learning, connection and inspiration on January 17, 2026, at the campus of California State University, Fullerton. Planned and led by district-level Latino Unidos student board members, the conference continues to serve as a cornerstone leadership experience designed to empower students and prepare them for academic achievement, personal growth and lifelong success.

The conference opened with dynamic and motivating remarks from GGUSD Superintendent Dr. Gabriela Mafi and Orange County United Way Executive Director of Student Success Sergio Contreras. Their messages emphasized resilience, opportunity and the importance of student voice. Board of Education Trustee Teri Rocco attended the conference and Trustee Walter Muneton presented one of the workshops, underscoring the Board’s continued commitment to supporting Latino Unidos students.

Throughout the day, students engaged in meaningful leadership development activities, showcasing the role that the Latinos Unidos Club has had in increasing Latino growth on state test scores and a-g rates as well as empowering students with scholarly habits and motivation. The conference also featured a networking fair where students connected with local professionals, exchanged business cards, explored community resources and learned about Latino-serving organizations. Students were also introduced to potential part-time employment opportunities to support their postsecondary goals. In addition, Latinos Unidos club members met in school-site planning sessions to align their goals and strengthen their commitment to the program’s core pillars of commitment, determination, respect, community and familia.

“This conference creates a space where students feel seen, valued and inspired to lead,” said Board of Education Trustee Teri Rocco. “By celebrating culture while building practical skills, Latino Unidos equips students with the confidence and tools they need to navigate challenges and pursue their college, career and leadership aspirations.”

Participants also took part in a campus tour and attended interactive workshops focused on time management, college and career planning, Latino scholarships, overcoming barriers faced by Latino youth, and resources to support undocumented students and their families.

The Latino Unidos program was established to provide a comprehensive system of support for GGUSD students through tutoring, mentorship, community service, college readiness and cultural enrichment opportunities. Currently, approximately 54 percent of GGUSD students identify as Hispanic/Latino, more than 75 percent are socioeconomically disadvantaged, and more than 80 percent come from homes where a second language is spoken.

With the guidance of dedicated advisors, Latino Unidos clubs thrive at each of the district’s eight high schools, ten intermediate schools and several elementary schools. These clubs serve as welcoming spaces that honor students’ cultural identities while fostering leadership, academic success and a strong sense of belonging.