Dr. Tracy Carmichael, COO of Big Brothers Big Sisters, interviews Dr. Stefan Bean, the newly appointed Orange County Superintendent of Schools

In July, Dr. Stefan Bean was unanimously chosen as the Orange County Superintendent of Schools, marking another chapter in his 24-year career dedicated to education. Dr. Tracy Carmichael, Chief Operating Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters, recently sat down with Dr. Bean to discuss pressing challenges in education, his personal journey, and the impact of mentorship on student outcomes.

TRACY CARMICHAEL:

You’ve dedicated 24 years to various roles within education—from teacher to principal to administrator—and were recently chosen to be the Orange County Superintendent of Schools. What do you see as the top challenges facing education systems today, and how is that shaping your priorities?

STEFAN BEAN:

Post-pandemic learning recovery remains a top priority, but we also need a broader, more philosophical reevaluation of educational models. Globally successful approaches that emphasize early cultivation of students’ interests and real-world applications through apprenticeships offer valuable insights. By focusing on foundational education in content and critical thinking, I believe we can reinvigorate student engagement, leading to improved outcomes and clear paths to higher education or careers.

We recently unveiled our 5-3-1 Strategic Plan that focuses on key areas such as expanding career technical education, fostering emotional intelligence, integrating AI in education, ensuring school safety and offering funding opportunities for innovative educational projects. Our plan also outlines three objectives designed to strengthen the capabilities of local school districts as they manage educational policies, fiscal challenges and the pursuit of academic excellence. In all aspects of our work, we are committed to a data-driven evaluation of our initiatives to adapt to evolving educational needs.

TRACY:

Absenteeism has been a hot topic lately. Can you provide some context on its impact, especially post-pandemic, and why addressing it is so crucial?

STEFAN:

Absenteeism has been a very significant challenge, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. During the 2021-22 school year, more than 20 percent of Orange County students were chronically absent. That rate was considerably lower than the statewide average, and we’ve since seen favorable declines, but chronic absenteeism is still above pre-pandemic levels.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our teachers and support staff — and partnerships with families — we are making progress. However, addressing absenteeism is crucial, as students must be present to learn and succeed. The key is creating supportive, connected and engaging learning environments that make students want to be in school.

TRACY:

Are there lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic—like learning gaps or social challenges—that schools are still working through?

STEFAN:

The pandemic has left deep and lasting impacts on our schools, including significant learning gaps and mental health challenges. Many students struggled with virtual learning, and we are actively working to address these issues, especially among those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Rebuilding peer relationships, classroom routines and a sense of connectedness is critical in helping students re-establish a sense of normalcy and belonging.  

TRACY:

Can you share a bit about your personal journey and how those experiences shaped who you are today?

STEFAN:

Certainly. After being abandoned in Vietnam due to contracting polio, I was brought to the U.S. through Operation Babylift and adopted by an American family. As an English learner with a disability, I faced numerous challenges navigating the educational system but was fortunate to have the support of dedicated educators and mentors. All of these experiences fueled my passion for equity in education and reinforced my commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

TRACY:

You’ve overcome incredible challenges to earn advanced degrees and leadership roles. Were there mentors along the way who made a difference in your journey?

STEFAN:

Throughout my life, I’ve learned the immense value of community and support networks, from friends who literally carried me upstairs in high school to the church community that supported my family during my wife’s illness — and, of course, educators like my sixth-grade teacher, Donald Geisinger, who saw potential in me as a public speaker. It’s these supportive relationships that enable all of us to overcome obstacles and reach our truest potential. This has definitely shaped my approach in Orange County, where we strive to support students through their own personal challenges, recognizing that some may face more than others.

TRACY:

How have your personal experiences shaped your approach to supporting English language learners and marginalized students in the education system?

STEFAN:

My personal experiences deeply inform my commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the necessary tools and support. I naturally see myself in English language learners and those from marginalized communities, recognizing reflections of my own journey in these students. Yet above all, I am dedicated to creating inclusive educational environments where every student can thrive, both academically and personally.

TRACY:

Our High School Bigs program, where high school students mentor younger students in after-school programs, has been making a big impact. With 22% of Littles reporting better attendance and 76% improving or maintaining academic performance, what’s your take on how mentorship programs like this affect educational outcomes?

STEFAN:

Programs like High School Bigs significantly improve student outcomes. Younger students, or “Littles,” are more motivated to attend school and engage in learning when they have a consistent mentor. In fact, 58 percent of teachers report improved attendance among students with mentors. Through its mentorship initiatives, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County plays a pivotal role in addressing absenteeism by fostering meaningful connections and support, giving students a compelling reason to show up. Additionally, high school mentors benefit by developing their leadership skills and empathy, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the school community.

TRACY:

I couldn’t agree more. When students feel seen, supported, and connected, they’re more likely to succeed—not just in school, but in life. That’s the heart of everything we do at Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Thank you so much, Dr. Bean, for taking the time to share your insights and experiences. It’s clear that your vision for education—and your personal commitment to mentorship—are already making a meaningful impact in Orange County. We look forward to continuing this work together, creating opportunities for every student to thrive.