Quick look: Applications are now open for Orange County Impact Schools, an OCDE effort to highlight effective school practices and foster collaboration through shared learning and classroom-based insights.
The Orange County Department of Education is once again inviting schools to apply to become Orange County Impact Schools.
Now entering its second year, the initiative is designed to elevate effective practices while strengthening collaboration across Orange County. The first cohort of 12 schools was announced in October 2025, kicking off a countywide push to highlight and learn from practices that are making a meaningful difference for students.
The Orange County Impact Schools designation is open to all public and charter schools, recognizing programs and approaches that positively influence student learning, well-being and readiness for college, career and life. Think of it as more of a professional exchange rather than a competition.
Throughout the year, small teams from OCDE’s Educational Services division will visit these school sites to observe classroom practices, engage with educators and better understand what’s driving results. These visits are collaborative and non-evaluative, with a focus on identifying strategies that can be shared and adapted across Orange County.
“Orange County Impact Schools give us a chance to learn alongside educators and see what’s working in real classrooms,” said Orange County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean. “By identifying and sharing practices that are making a measurable difference for students, we can help strengthen outcomes across Orange County.”
An Orange County Impact School reflects a commitment to well-designed, sustainable practices that are supported by evidence of their impact, said Dr. Jonathan Swanson, executive director of Curriculum, Instruction and Academic Enrichment for OCDE’s Educational Services division.
“The recognition reflects the collective efforts of the entire school community and the shared commitment to improving outcomes for students,” he said.
Schools can apply based on a specific program or approach and will be asked to describe its purpose, impact and supporting evidence. Submissions are reviewed through a multi-step process that includes a cross-division OCDE committee and site-based validation visits.
Nominations for the 2026-27 cycle are due by May 15, and applications must be submitted by June 30. Awardees will be announced in the fall.
Schools and community members can learn more or begin the nomination and application process at ocde.us/impactschools. For questions, contact impactschools@ocde.us.