OCDE Newsroom

A photo of Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Al Mijares

Mijares: NBA star Stephen Curry demonstrates how to rebound from life’s setbacks

Ian Hanigan June 4, 2015

"Suffice to say, most young people will not play college basketball or pursue careers in the NBA," writes Dr. Al Mijares, Orange County superintendent of schools. "Yet there are lessons to be learned from those who have nurtured their natural abilities and shattered perceived limitations by way of an extraordinary work ethic." Click through to read the superintendent’s latest column.

An image of Orange County Superintendent Al Mijares

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. […]