As we wind down the school year following a successful CADAStock Convention, we simultaneously wind up CADA with exciting changes to our board. This year, we welcome three new board members while expressing...

Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s life was a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and advocacy. From her early battles with gender discrimination to her groundbreaking work as a Supreme Court Justice, Ginsburg...

Jenni Rivera, the legendary Mexican-American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur, remains an enduring symbol of resilience, authenticity, and empowerment. Her life and career, marked by incredible highs...

As we approach graduation season and the transition of leadership among student leaders, many seniors begin to reflect on the vast and uncertain world awaiting them. High school has often provided a sense...

In 2012, CADA embraced a theme that resonated deeply with leaders across California: “Peace, Love, CADA: A Leadership Revolution,” a vision brought to life by Monica Anderson (CADA President...

At this year’s CADA conference, Grammy-nominated songwriter Shelley Peiken delivered a keynote that was nothing short of inspiring. In a room filled with educators dedicated to leadership and student...

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it's vital that student leaders and Activities Directors understand its potential and challenges. During her enlightening...

The Birthplace of CADA and More In 1957, a group of dedicated educators in Bakersfield recognized the need for a unified support network for student activities directors across California. This realization...

Abraham Lincoln’s journey to the presidency was far from smooth. His path was marked by failures, losses, and personal hardships that might have derailed a less determined individual. Yet, these very...

Children's books hold a unique power to inspire and nurture the seeds of leadership and personal growth in young minds. Through engaging stories, vivid illustrations, and relatable characters, these books...

As Activities Directors, our roles inherently place us in the public eye. Whether we’re sharing updates on school events, celebrating student successes, or connecting with peers, social media often becomes...

In every school, there are two types of leaders: those who reflect the culture around them and those who shape it. The question is, are you a thermometer or a thermostat? A thermometer simply measures...

As Presidents Day approaches, we reflect on the legacy of George Washington, not only as a military and political leader but also as a model of character and discipline. One of the most remarkable glimpses...

When Martin Luther King Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 and delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, he did more than inspire a crowd—he defined a vision for America that...

Every winter, millions around the world gather with family, friends, and community to celebrate the Lunar New Year, a time of renewal, gratitude, and hope. Rooted in ancient traditions, this vibrant festival...

Nestled in the heart of Yolo County, Winters is a small but vibrant town that offers a unique blend of history, charm, and adventure. Known as the "Gateway to the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument,"...

Generations from 1900 to 2025 The Greatest Generation (1901-1927): Also known as the G.I. Generation, they endured the Great Depression, fought in World War II, and shaped the mid-20th century through...

The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) has a long and complex history in the United States, reflecting the nation's evolving stance on gender equality.  First proposed in 1923 by suffragist Alice Paul, the...

In 1915, Cadillac released one of the most iconic advertisements in marketing history, "The Penalty of Leadership." Although the ad never mentioned Cadillac or its cars, it struck a chord with readers...

After graduating from high school and becoming an avid reader, I discovered Ernest Hemingway as one of my all-time favorite authors. The 'Lost Generation' of writers, to which Hemingway belonged, had much...

High school athletics play a vital role in shaping student character, fostering teamwork, and building school spirit. Yet, these benefits depend on a foundation of fairness and equity, upheld through rules...

San Diego, a gem in Southern California’s Area G, is a city where sun-soaked beaches meet rich history and vibrant culture. As we prepare to gather for our final CADA Convention at the renowned San Diego...

As the Lead Activities Director in the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD), one of my primary goals is to establish systems that ensure consistency across all 20 schools. This way, if a new advisor...

A friend of mine, Lisa Walters, a past Area Coordinator for Area D, recently shared a deeply thoughtful post on Facebook that struck a chord with me. As she reflected on her career in education, she wondered...

Music has always been a reflection of its era, capturing cultural shifts, technological advancements, and the emotions of a generation. From the lively tunes of the Jazz Age to the era of digital streaming,...

As a U.S. history teacher and student government advisor, reflecting on the life of Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, offers profound lessons in leadership that resonate far beyond his presidency....

California is a state unlike any other, where history and natural splendor intertwine to create a unique landscape that continues to inspire both locals and visitors. For educators, especially those...

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Truckee, California, is an inviting haven where natural beauty, vibrant history, and outdoor adventures converge. Just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, Truckee offers...

Since the advent of the VCR, the DVD and now Streaming, movies have entertained us, and have been a nice distraction from our day to day lives (and they were a great sub plan).  However, movies are more...

Matthew Soeth recently sat down with youth safety expert Anne Collier to have a conversation about the social media helpline they both started in 2015. Online and offline drama are prominent in schools...

In the spirit of camaraderie and holiday cheer, the Ladies Holiday Breakfast has become a cherished tradition at Loara High School. Since its inception in 1987, this annual event has been a testament to...

Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins, Colorado, offers an enticing mix of scenic beauty, vibrant community life, and robust educational opportunities. Whether you are a nature...

If you have the time, and money, you may want to check out these restaurants that have been listed as the top 1,000 in the world.  The list is "based on the compilation of thousands of publications, hundreds...

The 2024 FCMAT Associated Student Body (ASB) Manual includes several important updates compared to the 2015 ASB Manual. These updates reflect changes in laws, regulations, and best practices for managing...

When I began my teaching journey, I found myself in uncharted waters. Assigned to teach Psychology without a textbook, I relied on my background as a Social Science major and a handful of college courses....

The Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at protecting children and adolescents from harmful online content and practices. Here are the top 10 key areas...

There are countless ways to recognize student accomplishments in junior high and high school, but not all methods create the lasting impact we hope for. While various approaches have been tried, one of...

Veterans Day originated in the Armistice Day holiday commemorating the November 11, 1918, armistice at 11 a.m. (hence “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month”), which suspended...

Throughout my years in CADA, I've been blessed with friendships that span the state and beyond. These connections have given me the strength to continue working in student activities, offering people to...

When you subscribe to the CADA NEWS Source we are included in the ever-growing network of online scholastic journalism programs accessible via the Source app. Think of it as the Apple News app or Google...

Many students, and let’s be honest many adults, don’t really know how to walk into a meeting with the powers that be.  Many years ago this 18 point layout was put into the CADA Leadership Camp handbook...

The John Muir Trail (JMT) is one of the most renowned hiking paths in the United States, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain. Spanning approximately 211 miles through the Sierra...

One of my CADA heroes is J. Peter Cahn. Our story began in 1991 at my first CADA Leadership Camp when we were assigned as roommates. Like any curious newcomer, I asked Peter the inevitable question, "Who...

Yesterday, Alden and Linda Esping attended a special event at my home, marking a significant moment in our shared history. Alden, ever the charming host, immediately praised my house and continued...

With all things Student Leadership, we should all know how we are to stay out of trouble when it comes to bookkeeping.  FCMAT has some steadfast rules that allow you to follow best practices.  While...

The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) has several new rules for 2024: Heat stress guidelines:  Effective July 1, 2024, CIF-member schools must schedule outdoor practices during...

As we continue to prioritize student-athlete safety, the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) has introduced a new rule centered around the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index. This index is...

San Francisco, the City by the Bay, holds a special place in my heart. My love affair with this vibrant, eclectic city began in the 9th grade during a school trip that would forever change my perspective....

Podcasts we are listening to (in no particular order): "SmartLess" (E) with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, & Will Arnett is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn...

It's always good to keep up on Ed Code and State Allowances. Section 41010 of the Education Code requires local educational agencies (LEAs) to follow the definitions, instructions, and procedures in...

The annual meeting of the California Association of Directors of Activities, held at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV, March 6-9, 2024.

If you were wondering what CADA is or or the impact that CADA has had on the state of California schools, watch the recap that covers it all from Bakersfield to the entire state.

Area A - Jill Mortensen [email protected] www.cada1.og/areaA As a CADA member for the past 18 years, a member of the Area A Council for close to ten years, assistant coordinator for Area A and Print...

Jack Moore Award The Jack Moore Award is a lifetime achievement award, named after our first President, recognizing longstanding efforts on behalf of the organization in working with both student leaders...

Did you know that four U.S. Presidents—Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan, and George W. Bush—once wore the mantle of cheerleaders in their youth? Before they led a nation,...

In the beginning of what would be Melissa Edsall's year, she was named Yolo County Teacher of the Year.  Melissa has been a large part of the CADA family, from being a CADA kid serving Past President...

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