Two New Public Schools in Anaheim

Anaheim, Calif. — Magnolia Public Schools (MPS), a leader in STEAM education, today announced it is opening two new campuses in Anaheim this fall after being approved to expand by the Orange County Board of Education (OCBE). Once fully enrolled, the two schools will serve a combined 1,640 students in grades transitional kindergarten (TK) through high school. Enrollment is now open for students in TK through second grades and sixth grade.

The two campuses mark the launch of Magnolia Science Academy–Orange County (MSA-OC), a move to expand and replicate access to the successful model offered at Magnolia Science Academy-Santa Ana (MSA-SA). Opened in 2014, MSA-SA serves over 500 students with a 100% graduation rate and ranks in the top 10 of the state’s highest test scores. Both schools will open this fall serving select grade levels expanding grades served annually to increase the number of Orange County students who can access the unique blend of STEAM-focused academics and college preparatory programs.

“Access to quality education is a right and our expansion will ensure local students have access to a supportive environment where students are empowered to explore, innovate, and lead — giving them the tools to succeed in college and life,” said Magnolia Public Schools CEO Alfredo Rubalcava. “By meeting the community demand for a rigorous school that supports scientific thinkers, we’re increasing the number of future leaders in Orange County.” MSA-OC was first approved as a countywide benefit charter in 2024, allowing the organization to open four additional campuses across Orange County. The original petition identified Irvine, Orange, Saddleback Valley, and Placentia-Yorba Linda as target regions. In April, the OCBE approved a material revision to include Anaheim after MPS secured a facility in the city. This month, the Placentia-Yorba Linda School District approved a location for the second school on a campus in Anaheim. The schools opening this fall are the first two schools to open under this countywide benefit charter.

Both new campuses will reflect the same whole-child approach that has earned Magnolia recognition at its Santa Ana school — ranked #49 among California High Schools, #19 among Los Angeles, California, Metro Area High Schools, and #78 among Charter High Schools.. MSA-OC will offer students a hands-on, inquiry-based STEAM curriculum designed to spark curiosity and foster creativity. A unique offering in Orange County, the schools will also provide early college opportunities through dual enrollment programs, allowing high school students to earn college credits while still in high school.

“As an Anaheim native, it’s an honor to be opening schools that I didn’t have access to as a child,” said Dr. Maria Rowell, founding principal of MSA-OC and lifelong resident of Orange County. “Families in Anaheim deserve access to an academically excellent, emotionally supportive public school. We believe in creating a place where students are excited about learning and confident in their potential to succeed academically and personally.”

Magnolia Public Schools currently serves more than 3,700 students across California, with a 25-year track record of preparing students for success in college and careers. In 2024, MPS received an $11.3 million federal Charter Management Organizations for the Replication and Expansion of High-Quality Charter Schools grant (CMO Grants) to expand its model in high-need communities.

“These new Anaheim schools represent a bold step forward in preparing the students of our community for the demands of the 21st-century workforce,” said OC Board of Education Trustee Jorge Valdes. “With standout programs like robotics and a strong focus on STEAM, Magnolia is offering English learners and aspiring first-generation college students an opportunity to thrive in dynamic, future-ready learning environments. It’s the kind of innovative public education our community needs.”

Enrollment is now open for both MSA-OC campuses in the Anaheim for fall 2025 for transitional kindergarten through second grade and sixth grade. Families can learn more or apply at https://enroll.magnoliapublicschools.org/msa-orange-county.

About Magnolia Public Schools

Magnolia Public Schools (MPS) are tuition-free charter schools with campuses throughout Southern California focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM)-based teaching to ensure students are well-rounded and college-ready. MPS offers smaller class sizes, individualized attention from teachers, as well as safe campuses that foster ideal learning conditions for students. Magnolia graduates are 40% more likely to enroll in college, 54% more likely to earn a college degree, 22% (54% if they are female) more likely to graduate from a STEM field.

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