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​​​​5-3-1 Strategic Plan
OCDE has launched it's 5-3-1 Strategic Plan​, a forward-looking roadmap built on community input and colla​boration. Centered on five key initiatives, three district-focused objectives, and one bold goal, ​the plan outlines a shared vision for advancing educational excellence across the county.​
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Orange County Schools Directory​

OCDE has unveiled a searchable online directory of Orange County schools, complete with a services index to help connect you with the right department.​​

​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.​

Public Notices

The following public notices are posted for informational purposes for Orange County community members.
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Supports and R​​esources​

OCDE is committed to connecting students, families and schools with services that promote academic success, wellness and strong communities. ​

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.

Professional Learning Opportunities​

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

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

OCDE Newsroom

Students, educators to share real-world AI classroom experiences at Student and Community Voice AI Summit

Students, educators to share real-world AI classroom experiences at Student and Community Voice AI Summit

March 12 , 2026

Quick look: The 2026 Student and Community Voice AI Summit will bring students, educators and community leaders together March 19 to 21 at the Anaheim Hilton to explore how artificial intelligence is utilized in education today. The event will include breakout sessions, student panels and the inaugural AI K–12 Student Agency Awards. What does artificial intelligence in the classroom really look like from a boots-on-the-ground perspective? That question will guide the 2026 Student and Community Voice AI Summit, scheduled for […]

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

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

March 11 , 2026

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 […]

More than 40 Orange County schools named 2026 California Distinguished Schools

More than 40 Orange County schools named 2026 California Distinguished Schools

March 10 , 2026

Quick look: Forty-two Orange County middle and high schools have been named 2026 California Distinguished Schools, considered the state’s highest honor for public education. Forty-two middle and high schools in Orange County have earned recognition as 2026 California Distinguished Schools, the state’s top honor for public schools. On Tuesday, March 10, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced that 408 middle and high schools statewide received the distinction, based on performance data from the 2025 California State Dashboard. “It […]

OCDE announces six Orange County districts as Innovation Funding Initiative awardees

OCDE announces six Orange County districts as Innovation Funding Initiative awardees

March 9 , 2026

OCDE has announced six OC school districts as the first awardees of its Innovation Funding Initiative, supporting projects aimed at strengthening student engagement and achievement.