Grants to Teachers “The Heart of Our Mission”
At the core of the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation is the program that started it all: Grants to Teachers.
Every year, dedicated teachers spend their own money to test new ideas, spark curiosity, and enrich their classrooms. For more than 45 years, our Grants to Teachers program has helped turn their vision into reality by funding innovative projects that elevate learning and inspire students across the district.
Open to all certified teachers and staff in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, the program fuels creativity where it matters most: inside the classroom. Each year, more than 3,000 students benefit from enhanced learning experiences with $100,000 in grants invested directly into classrooms.
When you give, you do more than fund a project; you empower teachers, ignite innovation, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Support the Grants to Teachers program and help us continue transforming classrooms across Newport-Mesa.
Teacher Awards Night
The celebration of our teachers culminates at our annual Teacher Awards Banquet, where we proudly present grant awards and checks to our deserving educators. During this special evening, we also join with the Newport Mesa Unified School District in honoring and announcing the district’s “Teachers of the Year.” This is a great opportunity for our donors and sponsors to have an opportunity to meet their recipients and personally present their grants.
State of the Schools Breakfast
Each fall, as a new school year begins and campuses come alive with possibility, the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation, in partnership with the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, proudly hosts our annual State of the Schools Breakfast.
More than just a breakfast, this inspiring community tradition brings together business leaders, elected officials, educators, and neighbors who share one common purpose: supporting the success of our students. Together, we celebrate the programs, achievements, and goals that shape our children’s future — and the schools that help them thrive.
This signature, sold-out fundraising event directly supports the Foundation’s Grants to Teachers Program, providing vital funding for innovative classroom projects that enrich learning experiences across the district.
Hosted each year at one of the District’s four high schools, the event highlights the strength and spirit of our campuses. This event is hosted by different high schools each year showcasing the incredible students and educators who make our district exceptional.
When you donate, you are investing in creativity, opportunity, and excellence in every classroom. Join us. Support our teachers. Empower our students.
We promote Newport-Mesa educational success!
Our mission is to enrich the educational experiences of our students. For over 45 years, we’ve been supporting teachers and students with grants that encourage and recognize vision, creativity and innovation in the classroom.
Ways to Donate:
Contributions to Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation are tax deductible. ID# 95‑3545875