The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) is preparing for its 2027 Orange County Counselor Symposium and is currently seeking proposals for breakout sessions and nominations for annual awards. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 9, at the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa and will feature keynote speaker Steve Pemberton. The symposium aims to acknowledge outstanding school counselors and advocates throughout Orange County.
OCDE is actively inviting the local school counseling community to contribute to the symposium by sharing effective practices and identifying colleagues who are significantly impacting students. The call for breakout session proposals and award nominations is now open, preceding the Feb. 9 event.
The theme for this year's symposium is “Be the Light: Every Student, Every Story.” This theme underscores the crucial role counselors play in guiding students through various challenges, helping them identify their strengths, and preparing them for their futures.
The symposium is specifically designed for school counselors, district and site administrators, and other professionals involved in student support. Attendees can expect a variety of session formats, including traditional presentations, interactive workshops, and panel discussions. The topics covered will focus on key areas such as supporting students' academic achievement, college and career readiness, and social-emotional well-being.
Dr. Jami Parsons, who serves as the executive director of OCDE’s Systemic Leadership for School Transformation, encouraged participation, stating, "Help us celebrate and strengthen Orange County’s K-12 school counseling community." Dr. Parsons further urged professionals to share their expertise, assist in recognizing excellence, and elevate individuals and practices that are making a difference for students.
Professionals interested in sharing their strategies, programs, and practices with colleagues across the county are encouraged to submit breakout session proposals by Oct. 2. Additionally, nominations for two annual counseling awards, the Orange County K-12 School Counselor of the Year and School Counseling Advocate of the Year, are open until Oct. 9. Award recipients will be honored during the symposium's Counselor Award Recognition Ceremony.
Keynote speaker Steve Pemberton is recognized as a bestselling author, a human-centered thought leader, and the host of “The Pemberton Podcast.”
For those planning to attend, early-bird registration is available for $279 until Dec. 1. General registration is set at $299. Groups of six or more individuals can register at a discounted rate of $259 per person. Registration fees cover breakfast, lunch, parking, and access to all symposium sessions and materials.
