More than 2,300 Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) students spent part of their summer enhancing academic skills, exploring new interests, and preparing for the upcoming school year through the district's Summer Programs.

"Our summer learning programs allow students to strengthen important academic skills while building confidence before the new school year begins," said Christy Flores, Director of Engagement, Partnership, and Expanded Learning. "By combining high-quality instruction with engaging enrichment experiences, our programs help students stay connected to learning and allow them to explore new interests."

Elementary Summer Programs

This summer, nearly 1,400 students entering kindergarten through fifth grade participated in NMUSD's Elementary Summer Programs. Led by NMUSD teachers, academic programs reinforced reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking skills, and community partners hosted enrichment programs focused on art, dance, music, engineering, robotics, chess, magic, and more.

Secondary Summer Programs

Nearly 600 middle and high school students participated in NMUSD's Secondary Summer Programs, taking advantage of free courses to earn credits, improve academic skills, and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Students attended in-person classes on subjects including algebra, comparative literature, and physical education led by NMUSD teachers. Qualifying middle school students were invited to participate in an accelerated math class or the AVID Summer Scholar Language Academy. 

Students also had access to online courses in geometry, economics, government, driver's education, and health. 

"Whether students are earning original credit, recovering credits, or preparing for more advanced coursework, our secondary summer programs help them build confidence and return to school ready to succeed," said Keith Carmona, Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning.

Extended School Year (ESY)

More than 350 students with individualized education programs (IEPs) participated in NMUSD’s Extended School Year (ESY) program, designed to support students with specialized needs from preschool through adult transition. ESY services are provided to students whose IEP teams determine they require continued instruction beyond the regular school year to maintain critical skills and prevent significant regression. 

“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,” said Dr. Heather Cash, Director of Special Education, Early Learning and Elementary. 

Led by the district’s Special Education team, the program reinforced foundational and academic skills while supporting social-emotional development through daily academic centers and movement- and art-focused activities. 

For the first time, a TK Readiness class was offered for students with IEPs transitioning to general education classrooms, providing targeted support to help students build the foundational skills and confidence needed for a successful start in TK.

NMUSD's summer programs reflect the district's commitment to providing meaningful learning opportunities beyond the traditional school year, helping students fortify their skills, maintain academic momentum, and begin the new school year ready to succeed. 

Additional photos from NMUSD’s Summer Programs are available on the district’s online photo gallery.