Welcome to the 2026‑2027 school year: New year, new name

August 26, 2026

A new school year brings an opportunity to reflect on our purpose, what we have learned and identify how we can continue to improve the educational experience we provide in our community.

This year carries special significance in the spirit of continuous improvement as we begin an important new chapter together. I am pleased to announce the Office of Correctional Education (OCE) will now be known as the Office of Academic and Career Development (OACD).

Committed to continued excellence

The name is new, but the foundation remains. OACD will build on the expertise and accomplishments of OCE while better reflecting the continued evolution of our organization. The new name also reflects the professionalism and impact of the work taking place throughout our schools and programs.

At OACD we will continue advancing our interconnected goals through the lens of continuous improvement. We will be intentional in building sustainable, evidence-based schools through common instructional practices, reflective feedback and implement strategies that are trauma informed and culturally responsive to honor the unique needs of our students.

We will drive continuous improvement through data. By examining our practices, learning from evidence, understanding student progress and identifying gaps, it will guide thoughtful decision making. Lastly, we will strengthen strategic collaboration and leadership across our programs with our internal and external partners. When our programs align around shared outcomes, students experience a more coherent system of support. This will result in greater opportunities for success.

Keeping you informed during implementation

The adoption of the Office of Academic and Career Development name is moving into the implementation stage, starting with the inclusion of our new name into the revision of the department regulations.

Additional information will be shared as the transition moves forward. This includes the rollout, new logo, internal and public facing changes, key milestones and ongoing communications.

I encourage all of us to approach our work with curiosity, refinement of our practices and a commitment to challenge and strengthen the teaching and learning process in our education environments. Also, I am grateful to our educators and support staff for the talents and leadership you bring to our education department every single day. I look forward to what we will accomplish together.

Cheers to a fantastic year ahead.

Genevie Candelaria, superintendent
Office of Academic and Career Development
Division of Rehabilitative Programs

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