

Take 5! is a monthly spotlight of promising practices happening at county offices of education throughout the state, rotating the five that are featured and the focus areas covered. The map coordinates with the location of the stories featured this month from across our state. You can view past bright spots by clicking the issues below.
2025 Spotlights
1. Creative Writing Used to Amplify Local Youth Perspectives From Juvenile Justice Center – Sonoma COE
2. Captivating Artwork Promotes 2025 Academic Decathlon – Sacramento COE
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3. Community Partnership to Show Unified Support for Immigrant Families – Santa Cruz COE
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4. Students Use AI to Help Farmers Maximize Crop Yields – Ventura COE
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5. Black History Month: Supporting Black Students in Public Schools – San Diego COE
January 2025
February 2025
1. Siskiyou Uses Podcast as a Way to Connect With Community – Siskiyou COE
2. Back 2 Work Puts Yciano on a Hero’s Redemption Arc – Butte COE
3. Free Workshop Strengthens Support for Students With Disabilities – Sacramento COE
4. Breaking Barriers: DHH Wrestling Team Makes Mark at National Deaf Wrestling Tournament - Orange CDE
5. Automotive Technology Students Jump-Start Their Careers – Riverside COE

March 2025
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Multi-Agency Safe Schools Collaborative to Improve the Safety and Welfare of Youth – Trinity COE
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Launch of New Center for Language and Literacy to Address Critical Literacy Gaps Countywide – Yolo COE
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Black History Month Student Oratorical Contest to Showcase Skills and Celebrate the Contributions of Black Americans – Napa COE
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Alternative Education Offers Robust CTE Offering, Providing a Unique Opportunity for Growth and a Transformative Journey for Students – Kern COE
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Arts Month Feature: Artists in Residence, Court and Community Schools – Riverside COE
2024 Review
January 2024 Take 5 1. Schools as Centers of Wellness Supporting Mental Health Services in Schools 2. Vocational Training to Integrate 3. Students with Disabilities into Careers and Society 4. College and Career Ready: OC Sophomore Pursues AI-powered Solution to Wildfires 5. Understanding COE Role in Juvenile Court and County Office-Operated Community Schools