Newport-Mesa event to explain new school programs

Newport-Mesa parents can learn about district-wide academic programs at a community meeting Wednesday.

The Festival of Learning, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Costa Mesa High School, will include information about the Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s new Signature Academies.

“If a parent is currently undecided about applying to an academy or new program, this is a great opportunity to learn and decide firsthand,” district spokeswoman Laura Boss said.

The academies offer supplemental activities and unique curricula in subjects like art, engineering and science meant to boost college preparedness and career readiness.

Students entering ninth grade in the fall can apply to the academies, which are offered at Estancia, Newport Harbor, Corona del Mar and Costa Mesa high schools. Each high school offers one or more academies in different subject areas. Estancia High, for example, will emphasize engineering and design.

In the coming years, students entering grades 10 to 12 will be able to apply to the academies.

The meeting will also include information about new programs for kindergartners being launched this fall. Enrollment is open to incoming kindergartners districtwide in a Mandarin language immersion program at College Park Elementary and a Spanish language immersion program at Whittier Elementary. A Modern Scholars Academy will be available for children entering kindergarten at Adams Elementary.

Applications for the high school and kindergarten programs are due April 15. Students and parents can complete the applications at the event. Principals and staff will be on hand to answer questions about the programs.

Costa Mesa High School is at 2650 Fairview Road.