Oregon Association of Latino Administrators

The Oregon Association of Latino Administrators, based in Cornelius, OR, empowers Latino educators and administrators across Oregon through targeted mentorship, professional development, and advocacy. Since its founding in April 2002, OALA has established itself as a vital resource for Latino leaders navigating the educational landscape, offering comprehensive support to both current administrators and educators aspiring to leadership positions. The organization provides structured protégé development programs that have transformed professional journeys and equipped emerging leaders with the tools needed to advance equity in their districts. OALA's multifaceted approach addresses the critical needs of diverse school communities by promoting Latino educators into leadership positions, ensuring educational equity for all students—particularly those of Latino heritage—and advocating for equitable educational policies at federal, state, and local levels. The organization actively disseminates demographic data and research related to changing student populations, helping Oregon schools understand and respond to evolving community needs. OALA also builds strategic partnerships throughout Oregon that recognize and support Latino youth accomplishments while developing organizational capacity. Operating from the Cornelius area with statewide reach, OALA has hosted its acclaimed Annual Winter Conference since 2005, establishing the organization as a recognized voice in Oregon's educational circles. The organization's board comprises experienced principals, assistant principals, and administrators from leading Oregon school districts including Beaverton, Salem-Keiser, Forest Grove, Eugene, and Hillsboro, bringing diverse expertise and district-level perspective to the organization's mission and initiatives.