july 2026: newport-mesa unified school district
By Carol Crane and Lisa Pearson
The Newport Mesa Unified School District academic school year came to a close in early June with our local high school graduations held on June 4th. Among the many traditional events preceding the graduations was a flurry of celebratory events around town, including the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce’s sponsorship of the Students Athletics Award Banquet, the Balboa Bay Club Scholarship Awards, Corona del Mar High School’s Athletic Collegiate Commitment Day (pictured), the Balboa Island Parade (pictured) Senior Award night, the cherished Grad Walks at the various elementary schools (pictured) and of course the myriad of promotions and the high school graduations.
These events kept the trustees EXTREMELY busy, as we criss-crossed town attempting to recognize all of our students’ numerous talents and achievements. The breadth of our Corona del Mar High School students’ accomplishments is extraordinary. Here are some data and statistics:
95% are planning to attend a university or trade school
5% are taking a gap year or joining the military
4 students are entering the military: Naval Academy(1); Air Force Academy(1); Marines(1) (pictured); Navy(1) (pictured)
9 MACY WInners
10 Cappies, including Lead Actor in a Musical
21 CIF Qualifiers
3 CIF Individual Championships
2 CIF TeamTitles
34 committed collegiate athletes in 11 different sports
$3 million in financial scholarships
CDM Principal, Dr. Jake Haley, shared the following genuine sentiment during commencement:
"Because you have walked the halls, CDM is a better place than it was 4 years ago...The four years together isn't about 'school. . .' it’s about seeing others, valuing our differences and celebrating that we are all Sea Kings." “We wish the Class of 2026 the brightest of futures.”
New E-Bike Policy for 2026-2027
A reminder that the Newport-Mesa Board Trustees approved a new e-bike policy that will take effect at the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
Key details include: *Grade restrictions: E-bikes and e-scooters are prohibited in grades TK-8th. High school students may continue to ride to school using e-motorized vehicles that adhere to CA state law.
Lastly, both of us would like to share our extreme gratitude to the wonderful and supportive staff at NB Living Magazine. Your partnership is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Lisa Pearson is a dedicated trustee for Area 4 of the NMUSD, proudly representing families from Newport Coast, Andersen, Harbor View and LIncoln Elementary. A resident of Corona del Mar for more than 35 years, Lisa has long been an active leader in the community, serving as PTA president, producing elementary school plays, leading fundraisers and consistently advocating for students. Known for her deep community roots and strong relationships, Lisa’s greatest strength is her understanding of local families and her commitment to ensuring their voices are heard.
Carol Crane is a longtime volunteer in the Newport Mesa Unified School District, former PTA president at the elementary and high school levels and former Zone Pack chair. Carol Crane currently serves as a member on the Newport Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) board, Trustee Area 3.
For more info: NMUSD.us | IG @ newportmesausd
Email: Carol Crane: ccrane@nmusd.us | Lisa Pearson: lmpearson@nmusd.us
