The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) is currently seeking proposals for breakout sessions and nominations for annual awards in advance of its 2027 Orange County Counselor Symposium. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 9, and will take place at the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa.
This annual symposium is designed to gather school counselors, district and site administrators, and other student-support professionals from across Orange County, including those who serve Irvine students. Its primary aim is to facilitate the sharing of promising practices and to recognize the contributions of colleagues whose work significantly benefits students.
The 2027 symposium will feature bestselling author, human-centered thought leader, and “The Pemberton Podcast” host, Steve Pemberton, as its keynote speaker. The theme for this year's event is “Be the Light: Every Student, Every Story,” which emphasizes the essential role counselors play in guiding students through challenges, helping them identify their strengths, and preparing them for their future endeavors.
Professionals interested in sharing their expertise—including specific strategies, programs, and practices—with their peers from across the county are invited to submit breakout session proposals. These sessions can be structured as traditional presentations, interactive workshops, or panel discussions. Topics are expected to cover critical areas such as supporting students’ academic achievement, college and career readiness, and social-emotional well-being. The deadline for submitting breakout session proposals is Oct. 2.
In addition to session proposals, nominations are open for two annual counseling awards: the Orange County K-12 School Counselor of the Year and the School Counseling Advocate of the Year. Recipients of these awards will be publicly honored during a dedicated Counselor Award Recognition Ceremony at the symposium. Nominations for these awards will be accepted until Oct. 9.
Dr. Jami Parsons, 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 your expertise, help us recognize excellence, and elevate the people and practices making a difference for students."
For those planning to attend, early-bird registration is available at $279 through Dec. 1. After this date, general registration will be $299. Groups of six or more individuals can register at a reduced rate of $259 per person. The registration fee covers breakfast, lunch, parking, and full access to all symposium sessions and materials.
The symposium provides a forum for educators and support staff from Irvine and other Orange County communities to exchange knowledge and acknowledge leading efforts in student support.
