Stefan Bean was officially sworn in as Orange County’s 12th superintendent of schools on July 3, 2024, marking a significant milestone in his journey to lead the education system in the county. The Orange County Department of Education played a key role in his appointment, recognizing his unique perspective and skills that align with the needs of the community.
Bean’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm from various stakeholders, including families of English learners, students with disabilities, and supporters of school choice. His background and experiences make him a compelling figure for those seeking inspiration and advocacy in the education sector. With the unanimous decision of the five-member Orange County school board, Bean’s leadership is poised to bring about positive change in the county.
As the successor to former Superintendent Al Mijares, Bean steps into the role with a deep sense of responsibility and dedication. Mijares, who resigned due to health reasons, had faced challenges during his tenure, particularly in navigating the dynamics of the politically conservative board. Bean’s promise to collaborate with the board on policies and budget management reflects his commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship that benefits the community.
A Remarkable Journey
Bean’s life story is a testament to resilience and determination. Paralyzed from the waist down as an infant due to polio, he was abandoned on the streets of Saigon before being taken in by an orphanage. His journey took a significant turn when he was airlifted to the United States during the tumultuous period of the Vietnam War. Judy and Gregory Bean, his adoptive parents, provided him with a loving home in San Diego, where he grew up alongside dozens of foster siblings.
Despite facing early challenges, Bean’s educational journey led him to pursue a career in teaching. His experiences as a public elementary school teacher in Fresno and Long Beach, followed by roles as a charter school administrator, equipped him with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of students. Most recently, as the executive director of the Irvine International Academy, a Mandarin language immersion charter school, Bean demonstrated his commitment to innovative educational approaches.
Family and Loss
Tragically, Bean experienced a profound loss when his wife passed away from breast cancer in 2020. Left to raise their four children, ranging from a recent USC graduate to a middle school student, Bean’s personal resilience mirrored his professional dedication to supporting students facing adversity. His ability to balance personal challenges with professional responsibilities speaks to his unwavering commitment to serving the community.
In a recent interview with EdSource, Bean reflected on his upbringing, highlighting the pivotal role of his sixth-grade teacher, Donald Geisinger, in shaping his academic success. Through personalized support and encouragement, Geisinger helped Bean overcome language barriers and academic struggles, ultimately paving the way for his academic achievements. The emphasis on inclusivity and individualized support in education has since become a cornerstone of Bean’s educational philosophy.
Leading from the Heart
Bean’s leadership style is characterized by empathy and inclusivity, rooted in his belief in seeing students through an asset lens. By recognizing and nurturing the strengths of each student, regardless of their background or abilities, Bean aims to empower individuals to reach their full potential. This approach extends to his interactions with parents, particularly those of English learners and students with disabilities, whom he views as essential partners in the education process.
In navigating potential challenges with the board, Bean emphasizes a collaborative and transparent approach, aimed at building trust and fostering effective communication. By involving stakeholders in decision-making processes and prioritizing community input, Bean seeks to create a culture of shared governance that benefits the entire educational ecosystem in Orange County.
Supporting Educational Options
Bean’s vision for expanding educational options includes a focus on charter schools and home schooling, with an emphasis on meeting the diverse needs of students. By advocating for alternative education models and parental choice, Bean aims to create a more inclusive and responsive educational system that caters to individual learning styles and preferences. His commitment to equity underscores the importance of providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed.
In addressing the complexities of charter school approval processes, Bean highlights the role of county boards in supporting countywide charters and independent study models. By facilitating collaboration between districts and charter schools, Bean aims to streamline the approval process and promote innovative educational programming that benefits students across the county. Through strategic partnerships and resource allocation, Bean envisions a dynamic educational landscape that prioritizes student success and empowerment.
Prioritizing Social-Emotional Learning
Social-emotional learning (SEL) holds a central place in Bean’s educational vision, emphasizing the importance of holistic student development and resilience-building. By fostering a collaborative approach to SEL that involves parents, educators, and support staff, Bean aims to equip students with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and thrive academically. His personal experiences of overcoming adversity underscore the transformative power of social-emotional support in shaping students’ trajectories.
As Bean looks ahead to the next two years, his priorities include strengthening the assets and values of the Orange County Department of Education and promoting 21st-century competencies and skills through innovative partnerships and programs. By leveraging resources and expertise, Bean aims to position Orange County as a leader in college and career readiness, equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world.
In Conclusion
Stefan Bean’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming Orange County’s superintendent of schools exemplifies the transformative power of education and resilience. His commitment to inclusive leadership, collaboration, and student-centered approaches reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs of the community. As Bean embarks on his tenure as superintendent, his focus on equity, innovation, and student empowerment promises to usher in a new era of educational excellence in Orange County.