Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest drug prevention campaign, began as a tribute to DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. His story sparked a movement that continues to inspire students and communities to live healthy, drug-free lives.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a wide range of education bills at the close of the 2025 legislative session, enacting new laws on literacy, school safety, nutrition and student well-being while vetoing several others.
OCDE has named a dozen campuses as Orange County Impact Schools, recognizing sites that are leading with innovative practices making a difference for students. The program is designed to foster collaboration and spread effective strategies.
Orange County students once again outperformed their state and regional peers on California’s annual assessments, with English language arts scores nearly returning to pre-pandemic levels and similar gains in math and science.
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.
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.
