Educators, community members and civic leaders will gather on Tuesday, April 22, to celebrate the life and legacy of former County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Al Mijares, who died in January following a battle with ampullary cancer.
Organized by friends, colleagues and community partners, the public event will honor Dr. Mijares’ decades of service to students and families from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Templo Calvario Church in Santa Ana.
Dr. Mijares led the Orange County Department of Education for more than a decade after being appointed county superintendent in 2012. A lifelong educator, he previously served as superintendent of the Santa Ana Unified, Bakersfield City and Coachella Valley Unified school districts, and as a vice president of the College Board.
At OCDE, Mijares is credited with advancing academic achievement, helping school leaders navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding access to mental health services and championing character education across Orange County.
Following his retirement in June 2024, educators and community members from across the county shared heartfelt tributes and messages of gratitude. He died peacefully at his home on Jan. 9, surrounded by his family.
Templo Calvario Church is located at 2501 W. 5th Street in Santa Ana.