SJCOE and SJC Children’s Services Coordinating Commission Host 25th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium

More than 200 educators, social workers, law enforcement officers, nurses, advocates, therapists, and other professionals working to prevent child abuse and support its victims attended the 25th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium this week.

Hosted by the San Joaquin County Office of Education and the San Joaquin County Children’s Services Coordinating Commission, the event began with a welcome and opening address from County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Troy A. Brown and Children’s Services Coordinating Commission Chair Joelle Gomez. Attendees then heard a series of presentations, including keynote speaker Romero Davis and guest speaker Dr. Robert Sage.

As part of the symposium, the 2025 Child Abuse Prevention and Intervention Award for Service Employee of the Year was awarded posthumously to Shonda Emery. Shonda, who dedicated her life to supporting children in foster care, worked with Parents by Choice to support youth transitioning into adulthood. Her husband, Everett Emery, accepted the award on her behalf.

Held during National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the symposium offered tools, strategies, and opportunities for collaboration to support and strengthen efforts to protect children and build safer communities.