LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. — El Morro Elementary School teacher Kathleen Margaretich has been named a 2026 Outstanding K–12 STEM Educator by the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE).

The Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) has appointed Christian Esperanza as its District Athletics Administrator. Esperanza began serving in the role in July 2026 and will succeed Denise Selbe, Ed.D., upon her retirement in August 2026.

The Orange County Department of Education has engaged the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) to conduct an independent review of the Laguna Beach Unified School District's financial records through a process established in California law.

Laguna Beach Unified School District and the Laguna Beach Unified Faculty Association (LaBUFA) have reached a tentative agreement that prioritizes maintaining high-quality health care coverage while limiting cost increases for employees and the district.

The Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education approved an employment agreement with Don Austin, Ed.D., at its June 4 meeting to serve as superintendent of schools effective July 1. Dr. Austin brings more than 30 years of educational experience, including service as superintendent of two California school districts and prior leadership experience in LBUSD.