UPLAND – Since 2020, Upland Unified School District has offered Wednesday Webinars, a virtual series designed to connect families with District staff, provide practical tools to support student learning and well-being, and strengthen the partnership between home and school. Held on Wednesday evenings to accommodate family schedules, the program has grown into a key resource for Upland Unified families.

The webinar series was launched during the COVID-19 shutdown to maintain communication and offer additional support to families. Topics are guided by family feedback and District priorities, with families invited each spring to suggest subjects for the coming school year. Prior topics covered include financial literacy, identifying students’ need for mental health services, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities of AI. Sessions typically feature presentations from District educators or administrators, along with opportunities for attendees to ask questions and share feedback. Past webinars have also featured community partner guest speakers such as the Upland Police Department, Inland Empire Health Plan, and CALKids. Spanish-language translation services are available upon request.

“The intent of our Wednesday Webinars is to provide families with the information and resources they need to support their students’ success in the classroom and beyond,” Director of Equity, Access, and Accountability Dr. Antonio Gonzalez said. “These sessions allow families to connect with District staff, ask questions, and learn practical strategies they can use with their students, all while building a stronger partnership with their schools.”

Attendance varies by topic, ranging from a dozen participants to nearly 200. Participation is free and voluntary, and provides families with direct access to educators and community partners, with all presenters volunteering their time.

Families can view a full list of upcoming topics and access recordings of past webinars on the District website. One upcoming session to highlight is the May 13 webinar on the District’s Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), which will provide families with insight into the District’s priorities, goals, and strategies for improving student outcomes.

“Wednesday Webinars are an important way for us to communicate directly with families and provide meaningful resources that enhance student learning,” Superintendent Dr. Lynn Carmen Day said. “They help ensure every family has access to information that supports both academics and overall well-being.” 

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

UUSD_WednesdayWebinars1: Computer Science Night brought families together to explore the District’s robust STEM initiatives. Wednesday Webinars further extend these opportunities, offering Upland Unified families a way to engage virtually and learn about available programs.

UUSD_WednesdayWebinars2: Students and their families visited Upland High School to explore the Video Production Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway. For those unable to attend in person, the District also hosted a Wednesday Webinar highlighting available CTE programs.