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Leadership Orange

Ever wonder what it truly takes to shape the future of 208,000 students every single day? Leadership Orange offers a rare, insider's look at the inner workings of our public schools. Go beyond the headlines and gain a deep understanding of how we prepare, inspire and empower students for a thriving future.
 

During eight engaging sessions, you'll experience behind-the-scenes tours, hands-on activities, meaningful interactions with students, and invaluable time spent with the experts who lead the way.

Leadership Orange meets monthly from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at schools and facilities all across the county.

Gain a deeper understanding of our schools. Apply for Leadership Orange today!
 

Leadership Orange Application


Application Deadline is Friday, August 7, 2026.
 

Note - Open to Orange County residents only. OCPS employees are not eligible.

What past participants say...

Judy Hayes, Class 12

After so many years in OCPS, as a student and then a parent, I was surprised that I learned things during Leadership Orange that even I never knew - about budgeting and calendaring, transportation and opportunities for every student to succeed. It helped me to be able to connect other parents with resources to help their children succeed, and bring fresh ideas back to my kids’ schools.

Juliette Chiles, Class 13

I am so grateful to have participated in Leadership Orange. As a parent volunteer, with Orange County Council of PTA, it provided me with the insight to better serve my community. The experience and the opportunity to better understand how OCPS works was amazing! Highly recommend.

Kea Cherfrere, Class 14

Participating in Leadership Orange provided me with a valuable opportunity to witness the hard work and dedication of the OCPS leadership, teachers, and staff. Most importantly, I learned how to leverage resources from my organization to help remove barriers to education for students and families in Orange County.

JJ Lullen, Class 14

What a WOW experience to see first-hand the many parts it takes to educate our children. Eye-opening to hear from and interact with those directing our vast Orange County Public Schools system.

Amy Bogert, Class 15

Leadership Orange has been one of the most informative and rewarding experiences I've had as a parent. I gained invaluable insight into how our district functions and the tremendous amount of work that goes into educating our children. I left with a deeper understanding of the challenges, successes, and decision-making processes that impact our schools and developed a greater appreciation for the countless individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes. It has been an eye opening experience.

Daisy Franklin, Class 15

As both a parent of a child in OCPS and a professional supporting high school students’ paths after graduation, I found Leadership Orange incredibly valuable. It strengthened my ability to advocate for my child and collaborate effectively with school leadership, while also giving me deeper insight into the District’s programs and challenges—helping my team better serve students and families. I’m proud to now be an even stronger advocate for OCPS!

Courtney Hoffman, Class 15

Leadership Orange transformed how I engage with my child's education and our schools. As an OCPS mom and community business leader, I gained practical tools, meaningful partnerships, and renewed confidence to drive positive change for our kids educational future.

2025-26 Session Dates*

Friday, September 11, 2026
Friday, October 9, 2026
Friday, November 13, 2026
Friday, December 11, 2026
Friday, January 22, 2027
Friday, February 19, 2027
Friday, March 26, 2027 
Friday, April 16, 2027

Graduation during School Board Meeting TBD.

*Dates tentative and subject to change.


Call Public Relations at 407.317.3368 for more information.

Previous Classes

Class 15 (2025-26)

Class 14 (2024-25)

Class 13 (2023-24)

Class 12 (2022-23)

Class 11 (2021-22)

Class 10 (2019-20)

Class 9 (2018-19)

Class 8 (2017-18)

Class 7 (2016-17)

Class 6 (2015-16)

Class 5 (2014-15)

Class 4 (2013-14)

Class 3 (2012-13)

Class 2 (2011-12)

Class 1 (2010-11)