We are off to a great start this school year, with our students and staff already making incredible strides in the classroom and beyond. As we continue this positive momentum, it is important to keep safety in mind, especially with the National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issuing a Heat Advisory for the Orange County Coastal Zone this Thursday and Friday. 

All Newport-Mesa Unified School District schools have High Heat Day procedures outlined in their Comprehensive School Safety Plans. While each school’s high heat safety plans may vary slightly, here are some adjustments and procedures you may expect to see to mitigate the heat:

• Limit, minimize, postpone, or cancel physical activity

• Modify instructional programs, subjects, and activities

• Find alternate locations for instruction

• Keep cool and hydrated

• Keep classrooms cool

Our Board of Education has also prioritized increasing shaded areas on our campuses. We have added shaded tables and are implementing a phased approach to installing shaded playgrounds at elementary schools.

We appreciate your cooperation in following these high-heat procedures and any additional measures implemented explicitly at each school. We appreciate your partnership in creating a comfortable and productive learning environment. 

For information on Cooling Centers throughout Orange County, please visit www.ocgov.com/cooling-centers.