Quick look: OCDE’s second annual Connected Leadership Conference will bring together business services and human resources professionals from across Orange County on Oct. 20 for a free day of learning, collaboration and practical strategies focused on navigating change. Registration is required for all attendees.
From evolving technology and financial pressures to workforce needs and organizational change, school district professionals are navigating increasingly complex challenges while keeping the systems that support students and schools moving forward.
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Orange County Department of Education will once again bring together business services and human resources professionals from across the county for its Connected Leadership Conference, now in its second year.
This year’s theme, “Connected Leadership: Navigating Transition Together,” reflects a program designed to help professionals at all stages of their careers strengthen their skills, exchange ideas with colleagues and take practical strategies back to their districts.
Hosted jointly by OCDE’s Business Services and Human Resources divisions, the free conference will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the OCDE Conference Center, 200 Kalmus Drive in Costa Mesa. The event is open to professionals ranging from entry-level staff to chief business officers in districts of all sizes, along with county partners.
Learning from experts and one another
The day will begin with welcoming remarks from Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, followed by keynote presentations from John Gray, chief executive officer of School Services of California, and Megan Reilly, chief administrative officer of the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team.
Breakout sessions will cover topics ranging from long-term financial liabilities and CalPERS compensation compliance to leadership, organizational transitions and the day-to-day systems that support district operations.
Presenters from OCDE and partner organizations will also address adaptability, human resources, financial planning and other issues facing school districts. Throughout the day, attendees will have opportunities to connect with colleagues from across Orange County and exchange approaches to common challenges.
Chris Beltz, director of Fiscal Services for the Ocean View School District, attended last year’s conference and said the experience provided practical information he could apply in his role.
“The 2025 Connected Leadership Conference was a valuable opportunity to connect and collaborate with colleagues from districts throughout Orange County,” Beltz said. “I enjoyed hearing from the keynote speakers and appreciated the practical insights shared throughout the conference.”
Lee Monroe, a benefit technician with the Anaheim Union High School District, also pointed to the relationships and professional connections that grew out of the experience.
“Attending the OCDE HR/Business Services Conference has been a valuable experience, both professionally and personally, providing opportunities to connect across departments, share knowledge and build meaningful relationships,” Monroe said.
Registration is open, with the first wave allowing up to six attendees per district through Sept. 11. Final registration closes Sept. 28. A light breakfast and catered lunch will be provided.
For the full schedule, session descriptions and registration information, visit link.ocde.us/ConnectedLeadership2026.