Entering Our Partnership Era: How One Network Rebuilt Trust Between Schools and the Central Office

Entering Our Partnership Era: How One Network Rebuilt Trust Between Schools and the Central Office


,
Magnolia 6

Trust between schools and the central office can make or break a charter school network’s success, but too often misalignment, bureaucracy, and competing priorities erode relationships. In this session, discover how Camino Nuevo Charter Academy transformed a culture of mistrust into a thriving, collaborative environment that not only delivers results for students but also fosters a sense of belonging for all members of the community. Learn practical strategies for increasing transparency, strengthening communication, and fostering authentic partnerships between school-based teams and central office leaders. Walk away with actionable ideas to apply within your own network and a renewed vision for what’s possible when trust becomes a cornerstone of your organization.

Presenters


Photo
Adriana Abich
CEO
Camino Nuevo Charter Academy

Adriana Abich is an education leader with 27 years of experience dedicated to creating greatschools in historically underserved communities. Guided by a deep belief in the transformativepower of education, she has spent her career ensuring that all students—bringing the full strength of their identities, cultures, and lived experiences—have access to opportunities thatprepare them to thrive in college, career, and life. As Chief Executive Officer of Camino Nuevo Charter Academy in Los Angeles, Adriana leads anetwork of schools committed to educational equity and excellence. Under her leadership,Camino Nuevo schools have achieved gains in student outcomes, earning statewide and national recognition, including designation as a 2024 California Distinguished School and recognition as a 2025 Innovate Public Schools – Top Schools awardee. Her leadership emphasizes strong instructional practice, leadership development, cross-functional collaboration, and a culture grounded in belonging and deep intellectual engagement. Adriana also founded the Avance Teacher Residency, an innovative program that reimagines teacher preparation by centering equity, mentorship, and culturally responsive practice. Now in its third year, Avance serves not only Camino Nuevo Charter Academy but has also scaled to include 8 neighboring charter schools. Through Avance, she has helped develop a new generation of educators equipped to build joyful, inclusive classrooms and serve as long-termchampions for students and the communities they represent. Across her work, Adriana is recognized for building organizational capacity, cultivating leadership at all levels, and driving systemic improvements that elevate student success. Her vision is rooted in a commitment to educational justice and a steadfast belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality school in their community.


Photo
Jessica Cuellar
Vice President of Student & Family Supports
Camino Nuevo Charter Academy

Jessica Cuellar is the Vice President of Student and Family Support at Camino Nuevo Charter Academy. Before her time at Camino Nuevo, she served as the Instructional Leader for PUC Community Charter Elementary School. She also brings a wealth of leadership experience through her roles as an Assistant Principal, Inclusion Specialist, and Dean of Culture for the Partnerships to Uplift Communities network in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Throughout her career, Jessica has advocated for resources and led support service initiatives to empower students and families in their educational journeys. She invests in relationships and community-building to create a positive learning environment in which everyone is invested in student success. Born and raised in Huntington Park, California, Jessica became the first member of her family to attend and graduate from college. Given her upbringing and educational experience, she is committed to a vision in which every single student receives the high-quality education they deserve. Jessica Cuellar earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a Minor in Chicanx Studies, a Master’s Degree in Special Education, and an Administrative Services credential from Loyola Marymount University. She is also a Teach for America alumna.


Photo
Juliana Santos
Principal
Camino Nuevo Charter Academy

Photo
Chelsey Strawbridge
Teacher
Camino Nuevo Charter Academy