In late 2024, the Orange County Department of Education proudly introduced a new roadmap for advancing educational excellence in Orange County, known as the 5-3-1 Strategic Plan. This initiative is designed to guide our work, build upon our foundational strengths and chart a clear path forward with a unified vision.
You might be wondering: What exactly is a 5-3-1 Strategic Plan? The title itself offers a glimpse — five key initiatives, three objectives that support our local districts, and one bold, ambitious goal. Each component reflects the insights we gathered from extensive discussions, survey responses and collaborative meetings with superintendents and community partners across the county.
In the following pages, you’ll find a breakdown of our five central initiatives, from enhancing career technical education opportunities for our most vulnerable student populations to fostering emotional intelligence and integrating artificial intelligence. We’re also laying out our commitments to supporting the unique needs of our 28 districts, from fiscal and legislative guidance to academic excellence and greater support for local superintendents. And finally, our “one big, audacious goal” serves as a rallying point for transformative progress within our ACCESS schools.
This plan is a reflection of your collective voices and a testament to the dedication of our staff to meeting the evolving needs of our students, families and communities. As we begin this new chapter, I am grateful for your continued partnership and look forward to working together to bring the 5-3-1 Strategic Plan to life, paving the way for meaningful, impactful change for those we serve.
Thank you for your commitment and support.
Stefan Bean, Ed.D.
Orange County Superintendent of Schools
