Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast

#7- Women Who Lead: Breaking Barriers and Creating Opportunity

In celebration of Women’s History Month, this episode highlights the leadership and impact of three remarkable women who are helping shape stronger communities and expand opportunities for students and families.
Rachel Hernandez, Mayor of Riverbank, California; Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez, Deputy Director of Californians Together; and Gabriella Barbosa, Senior Portfolio Manager at Ballmer Group join host Ileana López, Vice President of External Relations at PIQE, for a conversation about how women across government, advocacy, and philanthropy are opening doors and creating lasting change.

#6 Why Digital Access Matters—and What’s at Stake

In this conversation, I’m joined by Norma Fernandez of Everyone On and Dr. Ryan Alcantara of PIQE to highlight their impactful partnership. Everyone On works to close the digital divide through affordable internet and digital skills, while PIQE empowers parents with knowledge and skills. Together, they’re helping families and students thrive in today’s digital world.

#5 What Families Want: New Insights on Public Demand for Bilingual Education

Families are clear: bilingual education matters. This episode examines public demand for bilingual and dual language education and what the findings mean for educators, policymakers, and communities serving multilingual families. Tune in to hear insights from the authors of the What Families Want report.

#4: School Board 101: Understanding Who’s Making Decisions with Elizabeth and Adolfo

Who’s making the decisions that affect your child’s school? Join us as we sit down with school board members to understand their roles, responsibilities, and the impact they have on our schools—and why every family should pay attention.

#3 Managing Your Student Loans to Avoid Lifelong Burden with Ángel Rentería

In this episode, Ángel Rentería from the Student Debt Crisis Center shares practical strategies for managing student debt before it spirals into a financial crisis. Drawing from his own experience as a borrower and his work in advocacy, Ángel explores how equitable policies and informed choices can protect students and families from the long-term impacts of student loans.

#2 Making College Possible: FAFSA, the California Dream Act & Financial Aid with Israel Flores Beltran (CSAC)

In this episode, we’re joined by Israel Flores Beltran, Strategic Outreach Coordinator at the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). A proud CSU Sacramento graduate and former undocumented student, Israel brings a powerful personal perspective to his work helping students and families navigate the path to higher education.
We talk about the FAFSA, the California Dream Act, and other key forms of financial aid that can open doors for students across the state. This conversation is packed with practical insights to help make college more affordable and accessible for every family.
 
Every parent wants the best for their student, but financial aid can feel confusing. That’s why PIQE and California Student Aid Commission are hosting free webinars to help you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Join us November 6 (Spanish Only) or November 13 (English Only) for live guidance and Q and A. Register now: go.piqe.org/4mg4qje

#1 Family First: A Principal’s Guide to Stronger School Connection with Dr. Bilma Bermudez

Welcome to Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast — where we explore the issues that matter most to families, schools, and communities.In our very first episode, we’re joined by Dr. Bilma Bermudez, proud principal of Topaz Elementary School in Fullerton, CA. With over 21 years of experience in education, Dr. Bermudez shares her insights on how schools and families can work together to support every child's potential.