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​As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the Orange County Department of Education is joining the USA250-OC Initiative to reflect on the lessons of the past and invest in the next generation to shape the future.

USA250-OC invites educators, students and families to explore how learning, curiosity and community connection can bring the USA-250 celebration to life for Orange County schools. ​

What is USA25​​0-OC?

USA250-OC marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 — a moment to reflect on the United States of America’s founding ideals and how they continue to guide us today. From the founding ideals of liberty and equality to the local stories that shaped our region, USA250-OC is an opportunity to learn from history while imagining the future.

As part of the nationwide America250 campaign, USA250-OC joins a movement striving for “350 by 250,” to engage all 350 million Americans in celebrating the United States Semiquincentennial. 

In Orange County, educators and families are using this milestone to spark curiosity, civic pride and reflection. Through lessons, projects and celebrations, we’re exploring how America’s story — and our community’s story — continues to evolve. 

Learn More — https://www.usa250-oc.com/

Events and opportu​​nities

From student contests to educational programs and local events, Orange County is preparing for an exciting lineup of USA-250 events. Explore upcoming opportunities for your classroom or family to take part and contribute to this once-in-a-generation celebration. 

USA250-OC Song Co​​mpetition 

Orange County high school students are invited to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through music. Co-hosted by OC Music & Dance, USA250-OC and OCDE, the contest challenges students in grades nine through 12 to compose an original song that reflects the spirit and founding ideals of the United States. 

Entries must be 250 seconds or less and may be submitted in one of eight genres. Students may enter individually or as a group of up to three. 

Learn more and submit your song — https://ocde-services.my.canva.site/usa-250

America 250 America’s F​ield Trip Contest 

Students in grades three through 12 are invited to share their perspectives on America and answer the prompt, “what does America mean to you?” through original writing or artwork. Organized by America 250, the national competition offers cash prizes and special behind-the-scenes field trip to historic sites across the country. 

Orange County students are encouraged to participate and add their voices to this nationwide celebration. 

Learn more and submit your work — https://america250.org/fieldtrip/

Resources for educators ​​​and families

Looking for ways to bring the celebration into your classroom or home? Explore the resources curated by USA250-Orange County to make learning meaningful and fun. 

Resources include lesson plans and classroom toolkits, family learning guides, history archives, museum partnerships and community engagement opportunities.​

For Fami​lies:

• Share your family's American story — where did it begin?
• Visit local museums, historic sites or cultural centers
• Host a “250 Movie or Reading Night” focused on U.S. history

For Edu​​​​cators:

• Integrate lessons on independence, civics and democracy.
• Organize art, essay or storytelling projects under the “Voices of America” theme.
• Connect classroom learning with local history and cultural heritage.
• Partner with libraries, museums or community organizations for field trips and resources.

For Stud​​​ents:

• Create a digital timeline, video or podcast exploring our nation’s journey.
• Participate in contests and exhibitions themed around freedom and community.
• Take the lead on a school service project in honor of USA250-OC.