OCDE expects to meet all financial obligations for the next three years, even as statewide economic pressures and declining enrollment continue to shape long-term budget planning.
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.
NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar joined students at Thomas Edison Elementary to launch a new outdoor STEM partnership between his Skyhook Foundation and OCDE’s Inside the Outdoors. The celebration included 3,000 donated Adidas shoes and backpacks for Anaheim students.
County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean was named the 2025 Community Pillar of Influence for Education, joining four leaders recognized for strengthening Orange County. He was also recently honored by the Orange County Council of the Boy Scouts of America and the California Association of Asian and Pasifika Leaders in Education.
An independent foundation has launched to help expand educational opportunities for students across the county. The Orange County Schools Bright Futures Foundation will be led by David Blair, who brings more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience.
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.
OCDE’s Innovation Funding Initiative launches next month, but districts can sign up now to receive updates on key dates, announcements and opportunities tied to the new program.
