​​
​​​​​​​​​​​​​ ​​ 
​
​​​​​​County Offices of Education Explained

OCDE has produced a brief video that explains what county ​​offices of education do and how they support school systems, students and families throughout the state.​​​​

Orange County Public Schools Directory​

View the online version, or contact Media Services for a printed version.​

​Orange County Board of Education Meeting Agenda

Agendas for upcoming Orange County Board of Education meetings are posted at least 72 hours before each session.

County Committee on School District Organization Agenda

With members elected by local boards of education, the County Committee studies and makes recommendations related to the organization and reorganization of school districts, their boundaries, and their trustee elections.​

Immigration Statement and Resources​

Guidance and resources are available to assist Orange County schools in navigating evolving immigration policies.

California School Dashboard

This online platform provides an annual update on district and school performance, offering accessible data to help families, educators and communities understand how public schools are supporting students​.​

District Fiscal Assistance

OCDE provides fiscal oversight and guidance to Orange County’s 28 school districts, ensuring financial stability while supporting student success.

Resources and Supports for Professional Learning

OCDE supports student achievement through high-quality training opportunities for teachers, administrators and support staff.

Charter Schools

Educational options in Orange County include high quality charter schools that emphasize rigorous academic standards, innovative programs and responsible business practices.

Public Notices

The following public notices are posted for informational purposes for Orange County community members.

5-3-1 Strategic Plan


​​
​

OCDE Newsroom

California has extended its college financial aid deadline to April 2

California has extended its college financial aid deadline to April 2

March 12 , 2025

College-bound students have an extra month to apply for state financial aid after the California Student Aid Commission extended the priority deadline from March 3 to April 2.  Officials said the extension is meant to give students more time to complete applications following delays in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, process. The 2025-26 college financial aid application cycle opened on Dec. 1, 2024, two months later than usual due to changes in the FAFSA system. As […]

OCDE’s student-led SAMH program transforms mental health awareness across OC

OCDE’s student-led SAMH program transforms mental health awareness across OC

March 12 , 2025

Five years ago, OCDE’s Youth Development program asked itself how it could create a mental health program for students that would have a lasting impact beyond simply raising awareness. The answer? Let the students lead the way — after all, when have kids ever listened to adults more than their peers? Fast forward to today, the Student Advocates for Mental Health program is engaging, training and supporting students, parents and staff to build school cultures that prioritize mental health. With […]

OCDE’s origin story dates back to this day in 1889

OCDE’s origin story dates back to this day in 1889

March 11 , 2025

Today quietly marks an important anniversary for Orange County — and the Orange County Department of Education. On March 11, 1889, California Gov. Robert Waterman signed a bill that paved the way for Orange County to split from Los Angeles County and become its own separate political entity. The change officially took effect the following August, following a vote by local residents. Though it would be another 88 years before the Orange County Department of Education would become an independent […]

OC STEM Initiative seeks nominations for 2025 Outstanding STEM Educators

OC STEM Initiative seeks nominations for 2025 Outstanding STEM Educators

March 10 , 2025

The OC STEM Initiative, in partnership with the Orange County Department of Education and Cox Communications, is inviting community members to nominate exceptional educators for the 2025 Outstanding STEM Educators awards. This recognition program honors individuals who advance STEM education in Orange County by engaging students in hands-on learning experiences and preparing them for future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Nominees may include educators from early childhood to post-secondary levels, as well as individuals leading career awareness programs, […]