NMUSD welcomes return of students on first day, with one new policy change in place
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Newport-Mesa Unified School District campuses were bustling Monday as the district welcomed nearly 18,000 students to a new school year and marked the beginning of an important policy change for many middle and high schoolers.
In typical fall fashion, parents and children traversed the usual routes to school grounds across Costa Mesa and Newport Beach, with students making the journey by foot, car or bus.
Those who travel to school via bike, however, had to acclimate themselves to some new rules, adopted last semester by district officials seeking policy guardrails, particularly for electronic bicycles, as the number of reported crashes is on the rise.
Officials in April approved a districtwide ban on the use of e-bikes and full-throttle e-motorcycles among all students in grades TK through 8. The new policy further requires anyone who bikes to school to complete a CHP-approved training course and obtain a school-issued permit.
This means middle school students who ride non-electric pedal bikes, as well as high school bicyclists of any kind, must complete a course and pass a test online to become registered through their schools and receive a permit sticker to display on their bicycles.
While the policy defines enforcement actions, NMUSD spokesperson Annette Franco confirmed the district has been focusing on education and making sure student cyclists and their parents are aware of the new changes.
“This policy passed in spring of this year for implementation in the new school year,” Franco said Monday. “And we have been communicating with families all summer about the requirements.”
Bikes spotted without the necessary permits will get a notification card placed on the handlebar with links and QR codes indicating where riders can complete the online training and register for a free permit, Franco said. For now, the district is leaning on education rather than punishment for offenders.
In a districtwide statement to the Newport-Mesa Unified community, Supt. Wes Smith welcomed families and staff back to campuses, noting that 2026 marks the district’s 60th year of operations.
“The start of a school year brings renewed optimism and a shared opportunity to help every student discover their purpose, pursue their passions and prepare to make a meaningful impact in the world.” Smith said.
“As we celebrate the milestones, people and stories that have shaped our district, we will remain focused on building an even stronger future for the students and communities we serve.”
