MUSD opens newest middle school in district
Jennifer Root, superintendent of MUSD, welcomes guests to the ribbon cutting for Kathryn Newport Middle School. By Doug Spoon, Editor In p...
By Doug Spoon, Editor
In preparation for the first day of school on Aug. 10, officials of the Menifee Union School District on Wednesday celebrated the opening of the district’s fourth middle school.
Kathryn Newport Middle School is located in the northwest portion of Audie Murphy Ranch, west of La Ladera Park and north of Newport Road -- a main thoroughfare that is named for pioneer rancher William Newport. His daughter Kathryn was born in Menifee and later taught school here. The $71 million project took two years to complete, with funding coming from Measure Q and Community Facilities Districts.
First-year enrollment will be more than 800, said MUSD Superintendent Jennifer Root. A staff of 36 teachers have come primarily from within the district. Nick Stearns, formerly principal at Santa Rosa Academy and Oak Meadows Elementary School, will be the school’s first principal.
“Our school is well equipped with three classroom wings, a multipurpose room, a library, gym, and plenty of outdoor spaces to keep our students engaged and inspired,” Stearns said. "By igniting the students’ passion, we will equip them for future success.”
The state-of-the-art school will be the first in MUSD to offer three Career Technical Education programs: Health Science and Medical Technology; Media, Arts & Entertainment; and Dance.
“Moments like today offer hope for our community, knowing that we are laying the foundation to prepare today’s students for their limitless futures,” Root said.
Some students previously attending Menifee Valley Middle School and Hans Christensen Middle School will be reassigned to Kathryn Newport Middle School, easing the student population burden on those schools. Elementary schools within the Kathryn Newport boundaries are Ridgemoor, Taawila and Quail Valley. No longer with students from Quail Valley have to travel across town and the 215 Freeway to attend Hans Christensen.
In its present configuration, the school has separate classroom wings for sixth graders and seventh/eighth graders. As the population expands, plans call for three additional wings, allowing the school to serve up to 1,400 students.
Kathryn Newport was an avid equestrian who would often ride her horse around the Valley. One of her original saddles was donated to the school for display in its lobby. The school mascot is the Mustang.
"The Mustang is a symbol of grace, strength and determination," Stearns said. "Selecting the spirited mustang as our school mascot is a fitting tribute to Kathryn Newport’s legacy. Just as the Mustangs run freely with unwavering spirit, we strive to create an environment where our students can embrace their passions and talents and where their individuality is celebrated."
Principal Nick Stearns addresses members of the media at today's school opening.
The school's library is equipped with every kind of learning resource as well as inspirational murals.
The multipurpose room, located right off the lobby, has a stage and plenty of seating room.
Classrooms are equipped with the latest technology and have desks that can be arranged in many ways.
