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.
At the 2025 California MTSS Professional Learning Institute in Anaheim, four educators led personal TED-style talks that showcased how the MTSS framework can rebuild trust, strengthen family‑school partnerships and transform schools — sharing their educational experiences with over 2,400 attendees.
After 11 years as superintendent of the Anaheim Union High School District, Michael Matsuda has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31, 2025. An internal search for his successor will continue through July 28.
Through a partnership with Cargo2Casa, a nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable housing for those in need, OCDE students are gaining valuable hands-on construction experience while giving back to their community.
The long-running Safe Schools Conference is now the National Safe Schools Conference, reflecting its growing national reach. This year's three-day event kicks off July 9, bringing together educators and law enforcement to share strategies for safer, more supportive campuses.
Sunburst Youth Academy, a partnership between the California National Guard and OCDE, celebrated its 35th graduating class on June 20, honoring 171 cadets — including 15 who earned high school diplomas.
