News & Announcements

The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) annually recognizes outstanding school and district administrators for their achievements and dedication to public education. Dr. David Appling was honored with the prestigious Human Resources Administrator of the Year Award for ACSA Region 17. He was later selected as the ACSA State Human Resources Administrator of the Year—a tremendous accomplishment that reflects his exceptional leadership and service.

The annual Magnolia School District 6th Grade Track Meet was a tremendous success as sixth grade students from all nine schools across the District came together to participate in this spirited event celebrating fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) annually recognizes outstanding school and district administrators for their achievements and their dedication to public education. Dr. David Appling was honored with the prestigious Human Resources Administrator of the Year Award for ACSA Region 17, which includes all of Orange County. He was later named as the ACSA State Human Resources Administrator of the Year.

On the evening of May 7th the newly formed Magnolia School District Choir had their first performance at Salk School. The Choir performed with the expanded Magnolia School District Band in front of a packed auditorium filled with parents and staff members.The night opened with the Choir, who lit up the stage with powerful renditions of songs by Disney, Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, and American Authors—complete with standout student solos.

The May 2025 Edition of School News and Podcast is now available!

Parenting OC Magazine has named Dr. Frank Donavan, Superintendent of the Magnolia School District, as Orange County’s Top Educational Leader. Dr. Donavan has earned many well-deserved recognitions, but he states that he is most proud of the recognitions our District has received under his leadership.

The March 2025 Edition of School News and Podcast is now available!

Magnolia School District – Highlighted its Expanded Learning Programs, offering after-school activities like STEM, arts, sports, and academic support for over 2,200 students.

Dr. Albert Schweitzer Leadership Academy – Focused on its hands-on science lab, where students explore engaging experiments that enhance their understanding of scientific concepts.

Dr. Jonas E. Salk School – Featured the Big Buddies program, fostering social and emotional growth through mentorship, reading activities, and fun projects between younger and older students.

Dr. Peter Marshall Elementary – Showcased the PTA’s role in organizing community-building events like Board Game Night, a Valentine’s Dance, and Trunk or Treat.

Esther L. Walter School – Introduced the new school playground, emphasizing the joy and physical benefits it brings to students.

Juliette Low School of the Arts – Discussed the Legacy Books initiative, which aims to provide every student with their own personal library by the time they graduate.

Lord Baden-Powell School – Highlighted its after-school clubs, including cooking, STEM, cheer, dance, journalism, and crochet, with students also giving back to the community.

Mattie Lou Maxwell School – Announced the new school mascot, "Max the Roadrunner", boosting school spirit through rallies and events.

Robert M. Pyles STEM Academy – Emphasized the importance of school attendance, linking it to academic success and offering incentives to encourage regular attendance.

Walt Disney School – Celebrated 100 Days of Learning, with themed activities, dress-up events, and projects to mark students’ progress.

Congratulations to our District Superintendent, Dr. Frank Donavan, who has been selected to receive the 2025 Orange County Department of Education Music and Arts District Administrator Award. The Award recognizes exceptional leaders who implement a high-quality, inclusive, accessible, and equitable arts education for all students.

Updated Magnolia School District Board Meeting Date and Time.

The November 2024 Edition of School News and Podcast is now available!
Magnolia School District: Offers district-wide music education, with performances and a new piano lab at Juliette Low School of the Arts.

Dr. Albert Schweitzer Leadership Academy: Hosts a popular Cooking Club, teaching culinary skills and teamwork to 5th and 6th graders.

Dr. Jonas E. Salk School: Fourth graders participated in Anaheim Public Utilities’ Public Power Week, learning about energy and safety.

Dr. Peter Marshall School: Expanded its Garden Club, providing students with hands-on gardening and teamwork experience.

Esther L. Walter Elementary: Uses Math Talks to promote interactive and critical thinking-based math learning.

Juliette Low School of the Arts: Sixth graders serve as Big Buddy Mentors, building leadership and supporting younger peers.

Lord Baden-Powell School: Raised over $8,000 in a Fun Run, funding educational field trips and activities.

Mattie Lou Maxwell Elementary: Student council elections give students leadership opportunities and school involvement.

Robert M. Pyles STEM Academy: Emphasizes vocabulary development to enhance reading and communication skills.

Walt Disney Elementary: Offers an after-school Fairy Tale Club, blending reading and creative projects to bring stories to life.