Deaf Educators Gather for Landmark Summit on Deaf Student Needs

Over 300 educators from 50 California school districts attend first-of-its-kind event focused on supporting 17,000 deaf and hard-of-hearing students

Mar. 23, 2026 at 8:11am

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More than 300 deaf educators from over 50 school districts throughout California attended the first 'Fields of Possibility: Where Deaf Education Takes Root' event, a joint partnership between the Riverside County Office of Education and California School for the Deaf, Riverside. The free, one-day summit featured student performances, DeafEdX presentations, breakout sessions, and an evening showcase of ASL storytelling and performances.

Why it matters

This landmark gathering brought together a large and diverse group of deaf educators to share best practices, innovations, and resources for supporting the educational needs of the 17,000 deaf and hard-of-hearing students in California's public schools. The event highlights the dedication of educators working to provide exceptional service to exceptional students.

The details

The summit covered a range of topics critical to deaf education, including deaf stereotype trauma, artificial intelligence, social emotional learning, and language play and imagination. Emceed by award-winning author and artist Jonaz McMillan, the event featured student performances and multiple DeafEdX presentations, with presenters participating in panel discussions.

  • The event took place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

The players

Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE)

The county office of education that co-hosted the 'Fields of Possibility' summit.

California School for the Deaf, Riverside (CSDR)

The school that co-hosted the 'Fields of Possibility' summit alongside the Riverside County Office of Education.

Jonaz McMillan

An award-winning author, artist, and producer based in Los Angeles who emceed the event.

Dr. Edwin Gomez

The Riverside County Superintendent of Schools who praised the success of the event.

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What they’re saying

“The success of this event is an inspiring example of the power of the possible. When educators are focused on collaboration, inclusiveness, and providing extraordinary service, our students are the ultimate beneficiaries. The educators and presenters in the deaf community who traveled from all corners of California to attend this event are truly a testament to the dedication of our educators who provide exceptional service to exceptional students.”

— Dr. Edwin Gomez, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools

The takeaway

This landmark summit demonstrates the deep commitment of California's deaf education community to supporting the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing students across the state. By bringing together hundreds of dedicated educators, the event fostered collaboration, shared best practices, and a renewed focus on providing exceptional educational experiences for this underserved population.