OCDE is launching the Innovation Funding Initiative to invest in bold ideas from Orange County school districts that address unmet needs and strengthen student outcomes. Districts may apply beginning Dec. 3 for awards of up to $525,000 to support three-year projects, with the first grantees expected to be announced in early 2026.
More than 400 educators and community members attended the Vietnamese American Experiences Model Curriculum Conference Sept. 26–27 in Garden Grove, featuring 26 sessions, three community tours and keynote presentations.
Student board members from across Orange County gathered in Fullerton last week for the inaugural Student Board Member Summit, a first-of-its-kind event to connect, collaborate and build a countywide network of student leaders.
Orange County education and health leaders gathered to celebrate local progress tied to a statewide initiative that has expanded student mental health services. Speakers pointed to new wellness spaces, added clinicians and stronger referral systems, while pledging to sustain and grow these supports.
OCDE’s Communications and Media Services team has reimagined the Orange County Schools Directory as a continuously updated online resource. It's available at directory.ocde.us.
The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District has appointed Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza as its next superintendent, effective Oct. 6. Known to colleagues as Dr. Kym, she is a veteran educator with more than 30 years of experience and most recently served as deputy superintendent of Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado.
