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Santa Cruz County Office of Education

Santa Cruz County5 Schools~1,598 Students Enrolled

Explore Our Schools

PublicCharterGrades: 7-12

Pacific Collegiate Charter School

Santa Cruz

536

PublicCharterGrades: 12

Santa Cruz County Career Advancement Charter School

Freedom

207

PublicGrades: 7-12

Santa Cruz County Community School

Santa Cruz

730

PublicGrades: 7-12

Santa Cruz County Court School

Santa Cruz

20

PublicGrades: K-12

Santa Cruz County Special Education

Santa Cruz

105

Academic Calendar

Holidays & Events2026-2027
  • Jul03

    Independence Day Observance

    Jul 3, 2026

  • Aug06

    First Student Day

    Aug 6, 2026

  • Sep07

    Labor Day Holiday

    Sep 7, 2026

  • Dec21

    Winter Break

    Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026

  • Jan01

    Winter Break Ends / New Year's Day Observance

    Jan 1, 2027 - Jan 8, 2027

  • Jan12

    First Day of Second Semester

    Jan 12, 2027

  • Jan18

    Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

    Jan 18, 2027

  • Feb08

    Lincoln's Birthday Holiday

    Feb 8, 2027

  • Feb15

    Presidents' Day Holiday

    Feb 15, 2027

  • Apr05

    Spring Break Recess

    Apr 5, 2027 - Apr 9, 2027

  • May28

    Last Student Day

    May 28, 2027

  • May31

    Memorial Day Holiday

    May 31, 2027

  • Jun18

    Juneteenth Observance

    Jun 18, 2027

Area & Neighborhood Coverage

The Santa Cruz County Office of Education provides essential support and resources across the entirety of Santa Cruz County, a region celebrated for its distinctive blend of coastal beauty and redwood forests. From the bustling city of Santa Cruz with its iconic boardwalk and university, stretching south to the agricultural heartland of Watsonville, and winding through the scenic mountain communities of Scotts Valley, Felton, Ben Lomond, and Boulder Creek in the San Lorenzo Valley, our reach encompasses a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods. We extend our collaborative efforts to the charming beach towns of Capitola and Aptos, ensuring that all 10 local school districts within this vibrant geographical expanse receive the foundational assistance they need to thrive.

Community Collaboration & Countywide Support

Embedded deeply within the fabric of Santa Cruz County, the County Office of Education plays a pivotal role in fostering a cohesive and supportive educational landscape for all residents. Our work is intrinsically linked to the unique character of our communities, whether it's the surf culture of the coast, the agricultural heritage of the Pajaro Valley, or the tranquil, nature-rich environment of the redwoods. We act as a central hub, collaborating with local school districts, community organizations, and families to cultivate an environment where local educational initiatives can flourish, reflecting the values and aspirations unique to this remarkable corner of California. Our focus remains on broad support and resource sharing, strengthening the collective educational journey across the county.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Santa Cruz County Office of Education?

The Santa Cruz County Office of Education serves as a crucial resource and support agency for the 10 individual school districts located throughout Santa Cruz County. Our main function is to provide leadership, fiscal oversight, and a range of services that enhance the quality of education delivered by local districts, ensuring compliance and offering specialized assistance to meet diverse community needs.

How does the County Office of Education interact with individual school districts in Santa Cruz County?

We work closely with each local school district in Santa Cruz County, acting as a collaborative partner rather much more than a direct operator of schools. Our interactions involve providing fiscal guidance, offering professional development for educators, coordinating countywide initiatives, and delivering specialized support services that individual districts might not be able to offer independently, thereby strengthening the entire educational ecosystem.

Does the Santa Cruz County Office of Education directly operate all schools in the county?

No, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education does not directly operate all schools in Santa Cruz County. Instead, the county is comprised of 10 distinct local school districts, each responsible for the day-to-day operation and administration of their schools. The County Office of Education provides oversight, support, and resources to these independent districts, fostering collaboration and ensuring a consistent standard of educational provision across the county.