For Orange County School of the Arts senior Julian Maya, storytelling is a way to keep family memories and traditions alive.
Now, he’s creating opportunities for other young film students to do the same. Through the Rooted Film Festival, Julian hopes to bring students together to explore their identities and share personal experiences through filmmaking.
OCDE’s College and Career Preparatory Academy celebrated 166 graduates during its 2026 commencement ceremony, marking one of the largest graduating classes in the program’s history. The free public charter school supports students ages 16 to 25 in earning their diplomas via flexible learning options and personalized support.
A new podcast and video series from Orange County Business Council and the Orange County Department of Education is giving local families practical guidance on their children’s educational paths. Based on the 10 Education Essentials framework, the series features trusted educators, community leaders and parents sharing insights and real-world experiences.
Students across Los Alamitos Unified welcomed one another with smiles, signs and greetings during Start With Hello Week, a districtwide effort to strengthen connection and belonging. The initiative reflects the district’s commitment to helping every student feel seen, valued and connected at school.
Orange County students are invited to meet educator and commercial space traveler Aymette Medina Jorge and explore hands-on STEAM activities at STEAM Race to Space Day on Sept. 19. The free event will kick off the annual STEAM Race to Space Reading Challenge, which uses books, real-world experiences and student incentives to encourage reading and STEAM exploration.
Back-to-school excitement is on full display across Orange County, as schools share spirited first-day celebrations and campus traditions through social media posts.
