News

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) announces the appointment of Somer Harding to the role of Director of Health Services. Harding has been with NMUSD for more than six years, most recently serving as principal for Newport Coast Elementary School. As a collaborative leader and partner, Harding will develop, organize, implement and oversee Student Health Services districtwide. 

As principal for Newport Coast and Newport Heights elementary schools, Harding gained experience in NMUSD’s practices regarding special education, 504 administration and crisis management. During the pandemic, Harding was instrumental in evaluating and implementing strategies to keep students and staff safe. She also served as the chairperson for the state’s Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE) and has advocated for students with disabilities and support programs on a national level. 

In her 21-plus years in education, Harding has held a variety of leadership positions, including as a mentor and supervisor for the Clear Induction Administrative Services Credential Program at the University of California, Irvine; member of the advisory panel for K-12 assessments for the California Department of Education; and president of the central California chapter of the Association of California School Administrators. 

“Somer is passionate about the health and well-being of our district community and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. We are excited to enter a new chapter in Health Services with her leadership,” said Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services Dr. Sara Jocham.

Harding obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a master’s in educational leadership from California State University, Northridge. She assumes her new position on January 23. Retired NMUSD principal Christine Anderson will serve as interim principal for Newport Coast Elementary School as the district conducts a search for a new principal.