Focus on Education provides news about Ventura County public schools for families and educators. It is published by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE).

Defending Public Education in a Time of Uncertainty

A Message from Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

Public education is facing an unprecedented challenge. As political rhetoric intensifies, the U.S. Department of Education has come under attack, with calls for its elimination shaking the foundation of our nation’s commitment to equitable learning opportunities. Yet, despite these challenges, the focus of Ventura County educators remains clear: ensuring the well-being and success of students.

At this time, when public education is under scrutiny, our schools need unwavering support from the communities they serve. The narrative around education must shift from one of division to one of shared responsibility and appreciation. We need to reinforce the idea that teaching is not just a profession, but a privilege—one that shapes the future of our society. Strong, compassionate educators and leaders remain essential to guiding our schools through these uncertain times.

Equity Conference Supports Expansion of Educational Opportunities

The 5th annual Ventura County Office of Education Equity Conference drew a record crowd of nearly 500 people last month. Educators, parents, and community members from all walks of life came together to help ensure that all students have the support and resources they need to thrive in school.

The conference featured a variety of workshops about removing obstacles to learning for children with disabilities, students from immigrant families, LGBTQ students, and more. There were also sessions about civic engagement, preparing for college, and student mental health.

You can see a video collage of the conference at this link.

Students Honored at Mock Trial Awards

Middle and high school students from across Ventura County were recently honored at the awards ceremonies for the 2025 Ventura County Mock Trial. In the high school division, first place went to Trinity Pacific Christian School, which went on to win the top spot in the statewide competition for the second year in a row.

In the middle school division, Valley View Middle School in the Simi Valley Unified School District took first place. Ventura County is one of the only counties in California to offer a Mock Trial competition for middle school students. Watch this video to see the middle school finalists in action as they take on the roles of participants in a courtroom trial.

Civic Engagement is Topic of New Podcast

Informed citizens who understand the political process are a key part of a thriving democracy. That’s why there’s a growing commitment to make sure students know how our government works and how to get politically involved. 

On the newest episode of the VCOE Focus on Education Podcast, Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, sits down with James Koenig, one of the local educators who is leading the effort to show students how they can make a difference on issues they care about.

Watch or listen to this and earlier podcast episodes at vcoe.org/podcast.

Student Civic Action Project Expo

The second annual VCOE Student Civic Action Project Expo was bigger and better than ever. About 130 students filled the VCOE conference in Camarillo to showcase their civic knowledge. They gave presentations about topics they’re passionate about, including food waste on high school campuses, the homelessness crisis, and immigration issues. Students then cast ballots to choose their favorites. 

The top prize went to Ellie Malinzak and Kaylie Martinez from Thousand Oaks High School for their project entitled "Immigration Representation."

Math Whizzes Compete at the Ventura County Mathlete Challenge

Any doubts that math can be fun were laid to rest last weekend at the Ventura County Mathlete Challenge. Three hundred fourth and fifth graders came to VCOE to put their math skills to the test at this fun and friendly competition.

The event has seen tremendous growth, with five times the number of students participating this year compared to last year. Huge thanks to the Ventura County Math Council for providing this engaging educational opportunity for Ventura County students.

Science Fair Showcases Student Talent

VCOE Teacher of the Year - Dallas Ipach

Dallas Ipach from Gateway Community School has been named the 2025 Teacher of the Year for schools operated by the Ventura County Office of Education.

Mr. Ipach is known for building meaningful connections with his students and helping them make the transition to Gateway, which serves students who have been expelled or referred by their local schools. One of his students said he’s not just a teacher, but a role model who helps to make Gateway a life-changing experience. "For the first time, I felt like a teacher saw me for my potential rather than focusing on my past mistakes."

Mr. Ipach will now have the opportunity to compete for the Ventura County Teacher of the Year award, which is accepting nominations until May 2.

Channel Islands HS Wins State Honor

Congratulations to Channel Islands High School, which placed first in its division in the Super Quiz category at the California Academic Decathlon. The school was invited to participate as an at-large team in the state competition after winning second place overall at the Ventura County Academic Decathlon. Click here to view the full state results.

Migrant Speech & Debate Tournament

The VCOE Migrant Education Program’s 22nd annual Speech and Debate Tournament took place at Oxnard College, with 76 students from throughout the county participating.

The students did an incredible job presenting their speeches and debating in both English and Spanish, sharpening their critical thinking skills and building confidence.

Congratulations to the first-place winners, who will advance to the state competition in Monterey. They will also be honored by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors at their meeting on May 13.

Annual VCOE Prevention Conference

Hundreds of middle and high school students participated in the annual Prevention Conference at VCOE. This impactful event featured interactive workshops that let students use their creativity to build resilience and avoid the dangers of substance abuse. It featured sessions that used songwriting and art therapy to help students build self-esteem so they can be better prepared to meet life's challenges.

Industry & Education: Student Showcase

More than 100 middle and high schoolers from throughout Ventura County marveled industry professionals last week with their technical talent at the first annual VCOE Industry and Education: Student Project Showcase.

The event brought together students, educators, and industry leaders to highlight the ingenuity of local youth and the importance of providing educational opportunities that lead to local manufacturing careers. 

From robotics to welding and carpentry, the students displayed their innovative projects and their potential to power the future of Ventura County's manufacturing sector. 

Upcoming Events and Workshops

The Ventura County Office of Education and its partners present a wide variety of workshops and events for educators, students, and community members. Some upcoming offerings are below, and you can browse our full calendar of events at vcoe.k12oms.org.

Tobacco Old & New

A Community Health Conversation

April 30, 2025

Skoolcade

Student-created video game and e-sports showcase

May 3, 2025

Dual Language Immersion Institute

Teaching techniques for dual language educators

June 16-17, 2025

UPK/UTK Summer Institute

Hands-on learning for educators and administrators

June 23-25, 2025

Summer Inclusion Institute

For administrators and educators working with children from birth to 8 years of age

August 11-13, 2025

Gold Coast Ethnic Studies Conference

Community of educators servicing and supporting ethnic studies

October 4, 2025