NEWPORT-MESA SCHOOL BOARD PREVIEW

NEWPORT COAST REPORT

The school board will hear an update on the progress of construction

at Newport Coast Elementary School.

Originally scheduled to open its doors in September, the new campus

was not completed in time and the start date was pushed back to January,

when students return from winter break. The time-consuming removal of

large boulders found on the site and a delay in receiving windows were

two of several reasons given for the delay.

What to expect: The school will still open in January, said Mike Fine,

the district’s assistant superintendent of business services. But instead

of having time to spare, as was expected, they will be cutting it close.

IMPROVEMENT PLANS

The board will consider approving annual improvement plans for

Newport-Mesa’s schools. Each campus is expected to develop an annual

improvement plan, which principals began to present to the board last

month. Future school presentations are planned in January, running

through October.

What to expect: The board is expected to approve the 2000-01 school

improvement plans.

CHARTER SCHOOL HEARING

The board plans to set a public hearing, required by state law,

regarding the charter school petition submitted to the district last

month by a group of parents.

What to expect: The board is expected to set the public hearing for 6

p.m. Dec. 5 in the board meeting room at the District Education Center.

The hearing would allow an opportunity for the public to provide input on

the charter school proposal.

FYI

* WHO: Newport-Mesa Unified School Board

* WHEN: 7 p.m. tonight

* WHERE: District Education Center, 2985-A Bear St., Costa Mesa