The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) is now accepting proposals for breakout sessions and nominations for annual awards ahead of the 2027 Orange County Counselor Symposium. Scheduled for Tuesday, February 9, the symposium will gather school counselors, district and site administrators, and other student-support professionals at the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa. The event aims to foster professional development and acknowledge those making significant contributions to student well-being and success across the county.
The symposium invites the local school counseling community to help shape its agenda by sharing effective practices and recognizing colleagues. Professionals interested in presenting strategies, programs, and methods to peers from across Orange County are encouraged to submit breakout session proposals. These proposals are being accepted through October 2. Sessions at the symposium will be presented in various formats, including traditional presentations, interactive workshops, and panel discussions. The content will focus on supporting students in key areas: academic achievement, readiness for college and careers, and social-emotional well-being.
In addition to seeking presenters, the OCDE is also soliciting nominations for two annual counseling awards. Nominations are open through October 9 for both the Orange County K-12 School Counselor of the Year and the School Counseling Advocate of the Year. Recipients of these awards will be recognized during a dedicated Counselor Award Recognition Ceremony as part of the symposium’s program. The awards aim to highlight individuals whose work is making a tangible difference for students throughout Orange County.
Dr. Jami Parsons, executive director of OCDE’s Systemic Leadership for School Transformation, emphasized the importance of community involvement. Dr. Parsons stated that the department encourages participants to "celebrate and strengthen Orange County’s K-12 school counseling community." She highlighted the opportunity for professionals to share their expertise, help recognize excellence, and elevate the practices and individuals who positively impact students’ lives.
The theme for the 2027 symposium is “Be the Light: Every Student, Every Story.” This theme is intended to underscore the crucial role school counselors play in assisting students as they navigate various challenges, identify their personal strengths, and prepare for their futures beyond K-12 education. The event is designed to provide valuable insights and networking opportunities for those dedicated to student support.
Keynote speaker for the February 9 event will be Steve Pemberton. Pemberton is known as a bestselling author, a human-centered thought leader, and the host of “The Pemberton Podcast.” His address will be a central feature of the symposium, offering inspiration and insights to attendees.
Registration for the 2027 Orange County Counselor Symposium is currently open. An early-bird registration rate of $279 is available for those who register by December 1. After this date, general registration will be $299. For larger groups, a discounted rate of $259 per person is offered for registrations of six or more individuals. The registration fee covers several amenities, including breakfast, lunch, parking, and full access to all symposium sessions and accompanying materials. The symposium offers a comprehensive experience for attendees, designed to support and advance the school counseling profession.
