Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) announces Dr. Heather Cash as Assistant Superintendent, Special Services, and Ms. Jane Choi as Principal of Pomona Elementary School. Together, they bring a depth of experience and a shared focus on creating supportive, high-quality learning environments where every student can thrive.

Dr. Heather Cash - Assistant Superintendent, Special Services

Dr. Cash brings more than 20 years of experience in education, most recently serving as NMUSD’s Director of Special Education – Preschool/Elementary, where she led special education programs and related services to improve coordinated support for students. In this role, she advanced inclusive practices while expanding early learning options and support for preschool students with disabilities in general education classrooms. She also supported teachers and staff in meeting each student’s needs, working toward IEP goals, and helping them learn, grow, and become more independent.

Throughout her career, Dr. Cash has served in a variety of leadership roles, including as a site administrator, director, special education coordinator, and teacher. Her experience spans both general and special education, giving her a broad perspective on how programs, services, and instructional practices can work together to meet the diverse needs of students. She has been instrumental in fostering partnerships between general and special education and expanding co-teaching practices from preschool through high school.

Dr. Cash also has a strong record of bringing departments together to better serve students and families. She collaborates with Health Services, Transportation, Education Services, and Student Services to improve coordination and provide more connected support for students. Dr. Cash has consistently focused on helping students succeed while strengthening the teams that support them.

“Dr. Cash approaches her work with a strong commitment to ensuring students and staff have the support, opportunities, and resources they need to thrive,” said Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith. “Her ability to build relationships, bring people together, and remain focused on what is best for students will serve our District well as she takes on this expanded leadership role. We look forward to her continued positive impact across our District.”

Dr. Cash earned her bachelor’s degree from Pepperdine University, her master’s degree in education administration from California Lutheran University, and her doctorate in education from the University of Southern California.

Ms. Jane Choi - Principal, Pomona Elementary School

With 20 years of experience in public education, Ms. Choi brings expertise in instructional leadership, collaboration, and a deep commitment to helping every student succeed. 

Since 2017, Ms. Choi has served as an English Language Development (ELD) Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) with NMUSD, supporting elementary schools in implementing high-quality programs and evidence-based instructional practices to improve student outcomes. She also helped expand dual language programs across the district and has championed instructional practices that promote bilingualism, biliteracy, and long-term academic success. 

Having entered school as a multilingual learner who did not yet speak English, Ms. Choi draws on her own experience to shape her approach with students, staff, and families. She is a passionate champion for all learners, helping students feel valued, supported, and confident in their ability to succeed.

In 2023, Ms. Choi served as a Summer Administrative Intern, providing leadership for the District’s elementary summer programs, serving more than 400 students. She collaborated with teachers and staff to provide engaging learning opportunities and positive school experiences for students with a wide range of learning needs. 

“She understands how to build strong instructional programs while fostering meaningful relationships with families and school communities,” said Assistant Superintendent of Achievement, Innovation, and Continuous Improvement, Socorro Shiels. “We are excited to support her as she begins this next chapter at Pomona Elementary.” 

Before joining NMUSD, Ms. Choi spent nearly a decade with the Los Angeles Unified School District as a teacher and categorical program advisor. As a fourth-grade Korean-English dual language teacher, she created engaging learning experiences that recognized that every child learns differently, tailoring instruction to help all students build strong academic foundations and succeed.

As principal of Pomona Elementary, Ms. Choi will build on the school’s welcoming environment, where young learners can strengthen their academic skills and confidence, build meaningful relationships, and develop a lifelong love of learning.