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Lana Lee with her donated masks.

OC student leads community effort to aid LA fire victims, kicking off Great Kindness Challenge

Nathaniel Martinez January 23, 2025
Sandra Lee portrait

OCDE announces Dr. Sandra Lee as associate superintendent of Educational Services

Ian Hanigan January 22, 2025
Los Alamitos High School students and staff organize donations for fire victims on Sunday, Jan. 12.

Weekly roundup: Los Alamitos High organizes donations for students affected by Eaton fire, Fullerton colleges honored for civic participation, and more

Madeline Gray January 17, 2025
Johns Hopkins University

Five OC students present at Johns Hopkins’ Global Health Leaders Conference

Vicky Nguyen January 17, 2025
Volunteers for Inside the Outdoors cleanup event

Inside the Outdoors’ annual cleanup honoring MLK returns

Madeline Gray January 15, 2025
Students in line for a school bus

Governor issues order to help students displaced by fires attend schools outside their districts

Ian Hanigan January 14, 2025
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Tuesday aimed at easing educational disruptions for students displaced by the destructive...
Exterior view of the California State Capitol building in Sacramento

What the governor’s latest spending plan means for OC schools and communities

Ian Hanigan January 14, 2025
California began 2025 in a stronger fiscal position than it has in recent years, but challenges remain for school districts...
Students at Super Quiz Relay

The academic event season has arrived. Key dates to know in 2025.

Vicky Nguyen January 13, 2025
The new year brings the excitement of academic competitions, where students can dive into challenges that test their knowledge of history, science, math, literature and beyond. From January to June, these events provide platforms for showcasing skills, expanding knowledge and...
Photo of Dr. Al Mijares in his office

Former County Superintendent Al Mijares, visionary leader who shaped education in Orange County, dies at 71

Ian Hanigan January 10, 2025
Dr. Al Mijares, a visionary and compassionate educational leader who served as Orange County’s 11th superintendent of schools before his...
Westminster High School Rose Parade 1

Weekly roundup: Westminster High students celebrate Vietnamese culture at Rose Parade, Orange County monitors winds and fire risks, and more

Vicky Nguyen January 10, 2025
Westminster High School’s Vietnamese American Culture Club brought their mission of promoting pride in Vietnamese culture to the national stage...
Fireman

Elevated winds and fire risks persist across Orange County

Ian Hanigan January 10, 2025
The National Weather Service has extended its red flag warning for inland Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains through 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as elevated winds and low humidity combine to create...
How to help children cope with tragic events

How to help children cope with tragic events

Staff reports January 9, 2025
Whenever there’s a high-profile trauma, whether it’s an act of terrorism or a destructive fire, it’s important to remember that...
A note from Dr. Bean

Orange County superintendent affirms support for Los Angeles County amid devastating wildfires

Staff reports January 8, 2025
Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean issued the following statement Wednesday regarding the destructive wildfires impacting Los Angeles...
Hmong families say goodbye to loved ones boarding a bus at a refugee camp in Thailand, reflecting both sorrow and hope as they prepare to journey to the United States. (Image created by Boon Ma Yang for the Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum)

Educators invited to explore Hmong history and culture at upcoming conferences

Vicky Nguyen January 7, 2025
K-12 educators from across California are invited to two conferences in February and May to learn about a new model curriculum that offers insights into the rich histories, cultures and refugee experiences of Hmong Americans. Hosted by the Orange County...
OC Pathways student ambassadors at the OC Pathways showcase on Dec. 7.

REGISTER NOW: OC Pathways Showcase to highlight student innovation in education and workforce development

Nathaniel Martinez January 6, 2025
On Feb. 27, OC Pathways will be hosting its annual showcase — a student-led event designed to celebrate the future...
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Dr. Al Mijares, a visionary and compassionate educ Dr. Al Mijares, a visionary and compassionate educational leader who served as Orange County’s 11th superintendent of schools before his retirement in June, has died following a two-and-a-half-year battle with ampullary cancer, his family shared Friday. He was 71. A resident of Tustin, Mijares dedicated his life to promoting academic achievement and the well-being of students. He passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon at his home, surrounded by family. 🔗 https://ow.ly/Y2JE50UEBij
Orange County residents should be advised of more Orange County residents should be advised of more wind activity and heightened fire danger today and tomorrow, as the National Weather Service issued high wind and red flag warnings for the region. The OCDE Newsroom has gathered essential tips and updates from local authorities to help keep our communities safe. 🔗 https://ow.ly/OqyN50UCKeI
OCDE is excited to introduce Kristin Marie Bartus, OCDE is excited to introduce Kristin Marie Bartus, who joined the department six years ago. Known as Ms. Kristin to her students, Bartus is an education specialist supporting students with extensive needs. As the adult transition teacher for the Connections program in Irvine, she supports nine students ages 18 to 22, each with unique challenges and skills. The program combines classroom instruction with community-based activities, emphasizing work experience, public manners, community relationships, peer interaction and independent living skills such as grocery shopping and using laundromats. “I am proud and thrilled to be paired with the strongest paraprofessional team I have ever worked with in my 15 years as a certified education specialist. We all benefit from strong collaboration and a shared motivation for student-centered program/activities.”
On behalf of the Orange County Department of Educa On behalf of the Orange County Department of Education, I want to express our deepest sympathy and support for all those impacted by the devastating wildfires currently burning across Los Angeles County, fueled by unprecedented and relentless winds. Our hearts are with the families who have been displaced, those who have suffered unimaginable losses and the communities striving to navigate this crisis. We also stand in solidarity with our educational colleagues in Los Angeles County who are facing significant challenges as they work to support students, families and staff. Their resilience and commitment to their communities inspire us all. Additionally, we extend our profound gratitude to the brave first responders who are risking their lives to protect others and safeguard property. Their heroic efforts and sacrifices are nothing short of extraordinary and we are deeply thankful for their service. As neighboring counties, we share not only a geographical connection but also a commitment to supporting one another in times of crisis. Orange County stands ready to assist and provide resources to help minimize disruptions and ensure continuity of education and services for those affected. In the days ahead, may we all come together in the spirit of compassion and unity to support our neighbors. Dr. Stefan Bean Orange County Superintendent of Schools 🔗 https://ow.ly/HaLn50UC2Vk
On Feb. 27, OC Pathways will be hosting its annual On Feb. 27, OC Pathways will be hosting its annual showcase — a student-led event designed to celebrate the future of education and workforce development. From 4 to 7 p.m. in the Huntington Beach Pavilion of the OC Fairgrounds, the event will feature student exhibits highlighting groundbreaking projects in a variety of fields. From esports and robotics to sustainable agriculture and artificial intelligence, attendees will have the chance to see how Orange County students are leading the way in multiple industries. For more information or to register, visit the link in bio. Registration is free, and parking is included in Lot A of the fairgrounds. 🔗 https://ow.ly/CMlP50UBxnC
K-12 educators from across California are invited K-12 educators from across California are invited to two conferences in February and May to learn about a new model curriculum that offers insights into the rich histories, cultures and refugee experiences of Hmong Americans. Hosted by the Orange County Department of Education, the first Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum Conference is scheduled for Feb. 28 and March 1 at the University of California, Merced. The second conference will take place May 2 and May 3 at the Piccadilly Inn Airport in Fresno. Both events will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. 🔗 https://ow.ly/aZx550UBx22 📷 Image created by Boon Ma Yang for the Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum
Children arriving at the Orangewood Children and F Children arriving at the Orangewood Children and Family Center often face significant challenges, having been removed from their homes due to allegations of abuse, neglect or exploitation. To support these vulnerable youth, OCDE recently partnered with the County of Orange Social Services Agency to transform four key spaces at Orangewood into a safe and nurturing environment filled with intentional sensory items and calming activities. 🔗 Learn more: https://newsroom.ocde.us/ocde-and-county-of-orange-social-services-agency-transform-wellness-space-for-vulnerable-youth/
The Orange County Department of Education wants to The Orange County Department of Education wants to wish you a Happy New Year. May the coming year be filled with happiness, success and new opportunities. 🎉 OCDE will be closed on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
From welcoming new leadership to launching cutting From welcoming new leadership to launching cutting-edge initiatives, 2024 set the stage for future successes in Orange County schools and academic programs. 🌟 As we prepare for the new year, we're looking back at some of the OCDE Newsroom's most memorable stories this year highlighting innovation, resilience and the people who made it all happen. 🔗 https://ow.ly/fP7f50UxpVv
Education advocate and civil rights icon Sylvia Me Education advocate and civil rights icon Sylvia Mendez was named one of the Orange County Register's 125 Most Influential People for 2024, coinciding with the passage of a state law requiring the landmark Mendez v. Westminster case to be taught in California schools. She was among a handful of educators, students and leaders within the education community honored for their positive impact in Orange County and beyond. 👏 🔗 https://ow.ly/hvoA50Ux59q
Orange County students, teachers and district staf Orange County students, teachers and district staff spread cheer by giving back to their communities and brightening the holiday season for those in need. With students decorating ornaments for senior citizens and educators wrapping donated gifts for their classrooms, here are some of the ways local school communities have showcased their generosity and holiday spirit. 🎁 🔗 https://ow.ly/J6bL50Ux37j
Wishing you peace, joy and inspiration this holida Wishing you peace, joy and inspiration this holiday season and in the year ahead. The Orange County Department of Education will be closed on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25.
Throughout December, staff collected canned food t Throughout December, staff collected canned food to support ACCESS families who rely on food pantries at OCDE sites. Operated in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, these pantries provide essential resources to students and their families. Eagle’s Catch at Skyview School and Capistrano Cellars at San Juan Education Center serve hundreds of families weekly, distributing tens of thousands of pounds of food. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this effort to ensure local families have access to the support they need this holiday season.🥫
In a special holiday video message, Dr. Stefan Bea In a special holiday video message, Dr. Stefan Bean, superintendent of schools for Orange County, reflected on the importance of family, community and giving back during the holiday season. 🔗 https://newsroom.ocde.us/watch-oc-superintendent-reflects-on-family-and-community-in-holiday-message/
The Orange County Department of Education plays a The Orange County Department of Education plays a key role in supporting payroll operations for school districts and community colleges across the county. Each month, OCDE processes payroll for approximately 75,000 employees and will generate about 100,000 W-2 forms this year. Click the link in bio for five key takeaways on how OCDE’s Business Services team ensures accurate, efficient payroll operations and helps employees get paid on time. 🔗 https://ow.ly/pNEw50Utxtp
Each year, OCDE staff come together for the Warmin Each year, OCDE staff come together for the Warming Hearts for the Holidays program, a longtime tradition that recognizes the strengths and achievements of ACCESS students by supporting them and their families with meaningful gifts. ACCESS staff spoke with students’ families to learn their greatest needs and wishes, which were shared with OCDE teams to ensure thoughtful and meaningful contributions. Thank you to the individuals, teams and divisions who are spreading kindness and joy this holiday season! 🎁
Ponderosa Elementary recently hosted the 12th annu Ponderosa Elementary recently hosted the 12th annual book distribution created by Wendy Sales, principal of Paul Revere Elementary, to honor her late daughter. Each student received three books to take home. Since 2013, the initiative has provided more than 25,000 books to students across the Anaheim Elementary School District. 📚 🔗 https://ow.ly/PMwa50Ut2n6
It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas for It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas for nearly 400 kindergartners in the Garden Grove Unified School District, thanks to Pacifica High School’s annual Adopt-A-Child celebration. For more than three decades, the high school has organized and hosted the winter tradition that pairs seniors with local kindergartners for a morning of holiday cheer. This year’s version, held on Wednesday, Dec. 11, featured gift-giving, cookie decorating, games, train rides, photos with Santa and performances by Pacifica’s student groups. Special guests included Orange County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean, GGUSD Board of Education President Teri Rocco and Garden Grove Superintendent Dr. Gabriela Mafi. 🔗 https://ow.ly/VA2V50UqMVw
Three alumni of OCDE’s Connections Deaf and Hard Three alumni of OCDE’s Connections Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program at University High School in Irvine returned to share how their experiences as Deaf Asian Americans shaped their careers in fashion design, animation and information technology. Learn more about this event by clicking the link in bio. 🔗 https://ow.ly/70tA50UqMwt
County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean i County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean is sharing OCDE’s 5-3-1 Strategic Plan — a roadmap for the future. Built through collaboration with educators and community partners, this plan highlights five key initiatives, three support objectives and one big audacious goal to enhance education countywide. 🔗 Link in bio: https://ow.ly/BJOx50UpnmU
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