Parent Leadership Training Institute of Solano graduates celebrated for growth, connection, and advocacy
Fairfield, CA (February 6, 2026) – For 12 parents in Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD), last night marked a shift in how they see themselves as leaders and their role in their children’s education.
Graduates of the 2026 Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) of Solano were celebrated during a ceremony recognizing months of learning, reflection, and shared experience. Funded through a collaboration between the Children's Network of Solano County and FSUSD, the program brought together a community of parents who learned how to lift up their voices to influence the systems that shape students’ lives.
“These parents showed up with curiosity and courage,” said FSUSD Superintendent Jennifer Sachs. “Their leadership is rooted in care for their children and for all students, and that kind of leadership is what changes school communities for the better.”
Throughout the 20-week program, participants explored topics ranging from education policy to community engagement, all while connecting their learning to personal experiences as caregivers. For many, the most powerful outcome was not a single lesson, but the sense of belonging created through shared stories and mutual support.
“PLTI creates space for parents to feel seen, heard, and respected,” said Holly Collins, FSUSD Coordinator of Parent & Family Engagement. “By the end of the program, you can see how parents speak with more confidence and ask thoughtful questions more than ever before.”
A defining moment of the program is the capstone project, where each participant identifies an issue they care deeply about and presents ideas for positive change. Projects focus on ways to strengthen connections between schools, families, and communities.
“Parent leadership grows when people feel empowered and supported,” said Ronda Kogler, Executive Director of the Children’s Network of Solano County. “The impact of this group will continue well beyond this celebration.”
Family members, district staff, and community partners gathered to honor and celebrate the graduates. As the 2026 PLTI cohort moves ahead, their voices will continue to shape conversations and decisions that support students across FSUSD. Information about plans for next year’s cohort will be available in the fall of 2026. PLTI is a family civics initiative of the Connecticut Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity. For more information about the Parent Leadership Training Institute of Solano, please contact Monica Soriano, PLTI Site Coordinator, at msoriano@childnet.org, (415) 684-5072, or visit childnet.org/PLTI
