Principal's Message

Dear NCE Families,
Welcome to the 2026–27 school year! I hope your summer has been filled with special moments, laughter, and time spent with family and friends. As we begin preparing for another exciting year at Newport Coast Elementary, I want to share how grateful we are for the opportunity to partner with you in supporting your child's growth, learning, and success.
At NCE, we believe that strong relationships between home and school make a tremendous difference in a child's educational journey. Our families are an essential part of what makes our school community so special. We are thankful for the continued support of our PTA, our Foundation, and the many parents and family members who generously give their time, talents, and encouragement throughout the year. Your involvement helps strengthen our school and enriches the experience of every student.
As a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school, we are committed to creating a positive, welcoming environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Our students proudly HOWL! Being a HOWLing student means being an Honorable, Organized, Wise Leader. Throughout the year, our staff will continue to teach, encourage, and celebrate these important behaviors as students learn and grow together. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing these values at home and helping our students become the very best versions of themselves.
Our teachers have spent time this summer learning, collaborating, and preparing for an exceptional year of instruction. As an AVID Elementary school, we remain committed to helping all students develop the skills they need for future success in college, careers, and life. Last year, students made tremendous progress in strengthening their note-taking, organization, goal-setting, and planning skills. This year, we look forward to building on that foundation by encouraging deeper thinking, meaningful questioning, and continued academic growth. Our teachers are excited and ready to provide engaging learning experiences that challenge and inspire every student.
One of the things that makes NCE so special is the incredible pride we share in our school community. This year, let's continue to celebrate our Coyote spirit! Whether it's wearing school uniforms or spirit wear, attending school events, supporting one another, or demonstrating HOWLing behavior each day, every student and family contributes to the positive culture that makes NCE a place where everyone belongs. Together, we make our school stronger.
I hope you continue to enjoy the remainder of your summer break. As the first day of school approaches, please watch for important updates and information to help your family prepare for the year ahead. We are excited to welcome our students back and begin another wonderful year filled with learning, leadership, growth, and memorable experiences.
Warmly,
Heather Darrow
Principal
Newport Coast Elementary School
