MV Gears Up for First HOPE Conference; African-American Family Conference Seeks to Guide MV Students, Families

Hanging onto Positive Expectations (HOPE) is the theme of this year’s African-American Family Conference. Hosted by the African-American Advisory Council of Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) this year’s first annual conference will be held on Saturday, Aug. 10, at Vista del Lago High School. The conference will take place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Looking to “help each student maximize his or her academic, emotional and positive social growth in order to become lifelong learners” is one of the goals of the African-American Advisory Council, according to a written release issued by the group, and Moreno Valley schools’ partnership with community stakeholders—families, parents, community-based organizations and businesses—is one way to do this. Workshops and a resource fair will take place at the conference with the intent of reaching this goal. The conference will also feature prize giveaways. “The conference serves as a platform to bring parents, educators, community members and students together before the beginning of the 2013–2014 academic year to establish and strengthen partnerships and our collective commitment to the success of African-American students,” the release states. Organizers hope the conference will also empower local families, providing them with the necessary information to help them “effectively understand and navigate the educational system,” according to the statement, connecting them with financial, college and career resources. Students of all grade levels and their families, educators and other community members are all welcome to attend this free conference. Event organizers stated they anticipate approximately 500 to 600 families to be in attendance. Participants will receive a complimentary continental breakfast and light refreshments. For more information on event registration, contact the Moreno Valley Unified School District at 951-571-6382 or via email at mvaapac@gmail.com. Vista del Lago High School is located at 15150 Lasselle St., Moreno Valley.