Newport-Mesa Unified School District served more than 2,300 students through free summer programs this year, offering academic courses, enrichment activities, and specialized instruction across three tiers. Among the highlights: the district launched its first-ever Transitional Kindergarten Readiness class for students with individualized education programs.
The district announced the enrollment figures on Tuesday, July 15. The programs span elementary, secondary, and Extended School Year tracks and are open to families across NMUSD's attendance area, which includes Newport Harbor High, Corona del Mar High, and Ensign Intermediate.
Elementary: reading, robotics, and chess
Nearly 1,400 students entering kindergarten through fifth grade enrolled in NMUSD's elementary summer sessions. District teachers led academic programs reinforcing reading, writing, math, and critical thinking. Community partners ran enrichment tracks in art, dance, music, engineering, robotics, chess, and magic.
Christy Flores, the district's director of engagement, partnership, and expanded learning, said the programs combine classroom instruction with enrichment experiences so students can explore new interests while staying connected to academics.
Secondary: free credits and accelerated math
Nearly 600 middle and high school students took free courses to earn or recover credits. In-person classes covered algebra, comparative literature, and physical education. Online options included geometry, economics, government, driver's education, and health.
Qualifying middle schoolers could also take an accelerated math class or join the AVID Summer Scholar Language Academy. Keith Carmona, NMUSD's director of secondary teaching and learning, said the accelerated courses prepare students for higher-level fall coursework.
Extended School Year: first TK Readiness class
More than 350 students with IEPs participated in the Extended School Year program, which serves learners with specialized needs from preschool through adult transition. IEP teams identify students who need continued instruction beyond the regular calendar to maintain critical skills and prevent regression.
For the first time, the district offered a TK Readiness class within ESY for students with IEPs moving into general education classrooms. The class targets foundational skills students need for a successful start in Transitional Kindergarten.
"By creating an environment where students feel a true sense of belonging, our ESY programs give students the confidence they need to learn, grow, and maintain their learning to be better prepared for the start of the school year," Dr. Heather Cash, NMUSD's director of special education, early learning, and elementary, said in the July 15 announcement.
The district's Special Education team led daily academic centers along with movement- and art-focused activities.
What's next
NMUSD's Back to School Kickoff Expo is Saturday, August 1, from 9 a.m. to noon at IKEA, 1475 S. Coast Drive, Costa Mesa. The event offers backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, and healthcare services. Students must be enrolled in NMUSD with a student ID number, and pre-registration is required in English, Spanish, or Russian.
