Giving every student in NMUSD a strong start to the school year is an important goal for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD). In partnership with IKEA and the Melinda Hoag Smith Center for Healthy Living, the district welcomed more than 2,000 NMUSD community members to its Back to School Kickoff Expo on August 2, 2025. Along with the support of more than 60 community partners, the Kickoff Expo provided back-to-school-related goods and services, including backpacks, lunchboxes, shoes, school supplies, and more.

“When a community comes together with purpose, remarkable things happen. Because our children matter deeply to this community, we’ve offered more than just resources; we’ve given them hope, supported their well-being, and set the foundation for a strong, confident start to the school year,” said NMUSD Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith.

Thanks to the generosity of more than 60 community partners, such as Active Learning, Boys and Girls Club of Central Orange Coast, Christ Lutheran Church, The Crossing Church, Foster Love, Melinda Hoag Center for Healthy Living, OC Dream Center, Orange County United Way, Raise Foundation, Redemption Church, Rock Harbor, and Southwest School Supply, NMUSD families received a variety of items to prepare them for the new school year. 

“Our Back to School Kickoff Expo does more than provide supplies; it ensures every student starts the school year ready to learn, thrive, and pursue their goals with confidence. Most importantly, they show our kids that they are seen and supported by their community,” said Christy Flores, Director of Engagement, Partnership, and Expanded Learning. 

Donations included essentials and extras such as toothbrushes, coloring books and crayons, socks, books, skateboards, life jackets, and sensory toys. Revival Hair Outreach, along with more than 30 local hairstylists and barbers, provided free haircuts. Health and dental screenings were offered by Families Together of Orange County Health Center’s and Share Ourselves’ mobile clinics. The profound generosity of The Crossing Church provided nearly 2,000 pairs of shoes for students in sizes and styles that contributed to confidence and connection for the start of the academic year. 

“As the new school year begins, the Back to School Kickoff Expo stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. These collective efforts reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong community partnerships and creating opportunities for every student to start the school year prepared, supported, and confident to succeed,” said NMUSD Board of Education President Krista Weigand.

For more photos of the School Kickoff Expo, please visit the district’s online gallery.