OCDE Newsroom

OCDE’s Fischer School offers a path to graduation, redemption for students like Erik

Ian Hanigan May 28, 2015

Erik, now 18, has a high school diploma and something even more important -- people who believe in him. He earned both as a student at the Otto A. Fischer School, one of four detention and treatment facilities run by the Orange County Department of Education’s ACCESS program.

Education advisor Fullan calls for collaboration and capacity-building at OCDE conference

Ian Hanigan May 22, 2015

Education reform expert Michael Fullan was the keynote speaker at OCDE’s “Equipping an Emerging Generation” conference, which drew more than 400 educators and business leaders to the Hyatt Regency Orange County. Hosted by County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Al Mijares, the event also featured Trevor Packer, senior vice president for the College Board. [...]

An image of Orange County Superintendent Al Mijares

Mijares: Teacher Appreciation Month is a time to celebrate those who inspire others

Al Mijares May 13, 2015

May is National Teacher Appreciation Month, and here in Orange County, we are incredibly fortunate to celebrate some of the most passionate, talented and committed teachers in the world, writes Dr. Al Mijares, Orange County Superintendent of Schools. Click through to read the superintendent's latest column.

Educators invited to register for OCDE’s ‘Equipping an Emerging Generation’ conference

Ian Hanigan April 29, 2015

Seats are still available for an upcoming education conference featuring a pair of highly influential academic leaders. “Equipping an Emerging Generation,” hosted by OCDE and County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Al Mijares, will include presentations by renowned author and researcher Michael Fullan and College Board Senior Vice President Trevor Packer from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19 at the Hyatt Regency Orange County. [...]

A graphic showing a collection of app logos

What apps are your kids using? Here are 10 anonymous and (mostly) secret apps

Staff reports April 7, 2015

Kids and teens are voracious consumers of apps that let them easily text, chat, meet people, share pictures and post videos – often anonymously. While it’s no secret that children are sharing more information than ever before, they are increasingly drawn to sites that tout anonymity. [...]

Mijares: Dual immersion programs benefit English learners and their fluent-English classmates

Al Mijares March 17, 2015

Dual language immersion, which clusters English-speaking students and speakers of a foreign language, has gained traction in recent years based on its ability to achieve bilingualism while narrowing the achievement gap, writes Dr. Al Mijares, Orange County Superintendent of Schools. Click through to read his latest column.

‘Restorative practices’ can nurture positive relationships, prevent unwanted behavior

Ian Hanigan March 3, 2015

How can teachers address conflicts and behavioral issues in a manner that re-engages students -- and keeps them in the classroom? That’s a question that has stirred plenty of discussion among educators. But the use of restorative practices is one potential answer that’s been gaining momentum in Orange County. [...]

Mijares: Research suggests ‘grit’ plays a significant role in a student’s educational success

Al Mijares February 9, 2015

In education, we often talk about the factors that contribute to academic achievement. We talk about quality teaching, family support, high expectations and the role we all play in the success of our students. We dialogue about poverty, crime and how a lack of access to health care and basic services can stand as barriers to college and career readiness. Yet there’s another factor that research suggests is a major gauge of growth and development. In fact it’s a personal trait we know as grit. […]

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