OCDE Newsroom

Innovation Funding Initiative officially launches, offering up to $525,000 for bold ideas in OC schools

Ian Hanigan December 3, 2025

OCDE’s Innovation Funding Initiative launches today, inviting districts to apply for up to $525,000 to bring innovative, student-centered ideas to life. Applications are open through Jan. 30, 2026.

With support from OCDE and Butte County, a familiar framework is helping L.A. County schools recover from last year’s wildfires

Ian Hanigan November 12, 2025

OCDE and the Butte County Office of Education are partnering through California’s Multi-Tiered System of Support framework to help Los Angeles County schools recover from the Eaton and Palisades fires.

Group of San Clemente High School student-athletes and representatives from Hoag and Capistrano Unified School District standing and smiling inside the school’s new athletic training room, featuring a bright red wall with the words “Home of the Tritons.”

New Hoag partnership helps San Clemente High athletes stay in top form

Ian Hanigan October 27, 2025

San Clemente High and Hoag have teamed up to open a newly renovated athletic training room designed to support the health, recovery and performance of student-athletes.

Governor acts on key education legislation as 2025 session concludes

Ian Hanigan October 14, 2025

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.

Students and families participate in National Walk & Roll to School Day on October 8. (Photos courtesy of Westminster School District)

Weekly roundup: OC students walk and roll to school, Santa Ana Unified shines a light on new performing arts center, and more

Madeline Gray October 10, 2025

On Wednesday, students, families and school staff laced up their shoes and started their commute to campus in celebration of...

Dr. Stefan Bean speaks on stage at the SBHIP Partners Appreciation Luncheon

Orange County partners celebrate progress in student mental health

Ian Hanigan September 24, 2025

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.

Dave Long speaks at the 2019 Safe Schools Conference

New name, same mission: National Safe Schools Conference to unite educators and law enforcement

Ian Hanigan June 30, 2025

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.

Scattered nitrous oxide canisters and colorful balloons on pavement, often used for recreational inhalation.

What parents should know about nitrous oxide misuse and teen health risks

Ian Hanigan June 2, 2025

Nitrous oxide, known as “NOS” or “laughing gas,” is increasingly being misused in ways that pose serious health risks. Experts warn that inhaling the gas can lead to nerve damage, fainting and, in rare cases, death — especially with the rise of high-dose products marketed to young people.

OCDE marks Fentanyl Awareness Day by spotlighting ongoing resources for student safety

Ian Hanigan April 28, 2025

With Fentanyl Awareness Day approaching on April 29, the Orange County Department of Education is encouraging schools to raise awareness...

From left to right, Mindy Daffron, Dr. Edgar Arce and Jason Claros of OCDE’s Crisis Response Network pose for a team photo.

OCDE’s Crisis Response Network supports schools during their most difficult days

Vicky Nguyen April 14, 2025

When the Altadena fire forced the closure of schools in the Pasadena Unified School District earlier this year, the Orange...

Safety