Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s (NMUSD) annual State of the Schools Breakfast, hosted in partnership with the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation (NMSF), focused on the incredible people and exceptional programs that create a unified Newport-Mesa for all students.

Elected officials, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach representatives, parents, community leaders, district and school employees, and event sponsors filled the Corona del Mar High School (CdM) gymnasium on October 8 to witness multiple student performances and get an update from Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith about the collaborative efforts that make Newport-Mesa an exceptional place for students to learn, grow, and thrive.

“We are not just unified by design, we are unified in purpose and commitment. We strive to create a culture of belonging and connectedness for all students and staff, a place where every student will feel seen, heard, valued, and safe,” Dr. Smith said.

A highlight of the event was the showcase performances by CdM students. Guests received a festive welcome to the event by the drumline, color guard, and cheer team. The CdM Jazz Ensemble played a medley of songs as attendees were welcomed to the event. The CdM Madrigals sang the National Anthem, and the school’s award-winning Orchesis Dance Company performed a routine to “Putting on the Ritz.”

The sold-out breakfast raised $50,000 toward the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation’s Grants to Teachers Program, which supports classroom learning environments for the district’s more than 17,500 students. 

Dr. Smith shared how NMUSD nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through its many STEAM programs. Students at every grade level receive engineering education that encourages hands-on participation. He also spoke about the comprehensive Strategic Arts Plan that uses state funding to expand and enhance the district’s already robust visual and performing arts opportunities in all NMUSD schools. Students will have increased access to musical instruments, music and arts technology, field trips, and more.

Dr. Smith touted strong partnerships with community leaders that help develop pathways for students to succeed in their education and future careers. One example is the nearly two dozen Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways that offer students a valuable head start to their post-secondary endeavors with work-based learning experiences. 

Community partnerships have also contributed to the success of students through before- and after-school enrichment programs, summer programs, the annual Resource Fair, Love Our Schools days, and more. “Community events bring people together to engage in service projects that instill a sense of pride in our schools and our greater community,” Dr. Smith remarked.

As part of a well-rounded educational experience Dr. Smith also showcased a variety of extracurricular activities, including access to all California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) recognized sports. NMUSD students recently earned CIF championships in cross country, water polo, wrestling, tennis, soccer, track and field, and swimming. 

“Unified in purpose and commitment we will continue to build on this momentum and make our district an even stronger environment for our students to grow, learn, and succeed,” Dr. Smith said.

To view more photos from the 2024 State of the Schools Breakfast, visit the district’s photo library. Video of the event will be available on the district website soon.