Named a California Distinguished School in 2024, Estancia High School is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment for a well-rounded, enriching high school experience. 

“We strive to create the best environment for our students to succeed. From advanced academics to distinguished Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways to groups such as the Link Crew and the Acts of Random Kindness (ARK) Club, Estancia is committed to students’ scholarly and social achievements,” said Principal Michael Halt.

More than 80 percent of Estancia’s 2024 graduating class indicated they had been accepted to and would be attending institutions of higher learning, including UCLA, USC, UC Davis, Cal Berkeley, and more. An additional six graduates entered into military service.

ACADEMICS

Estancia offers a variety of academic programs tailored to meet the needs of all students. Its Lyceum Academy is designed to develop students with strong academic skills and motivation to advance to top-tier universities post-graduation. The individualized educational support is paired with cultural experiences to produce well-rounded lifelong learners through the school’s most rigorous courses.  Students in the academy can earn the AP Capstone diploma.

Estancia also offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, where the majority of participating students graduate with an AP Capstone diploma, signifying they earned scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research, plus four AP exams in their choice of courses. 

Last school year, more than two-thirds of Estancia students who took an AP exam earned passing scores in one or more courses. More than 14 AP courses are offered each year in subjects such as English Literature, U.S. History, American Democracy, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Calculus, Computer Science, Spanish, and French. 

CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Estancia students are offered a competitive employment edge thanks to a variety of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, including engineering, medicine, construction, and media arts. 

A new nursing pathway, developed in partnership with Golden West College and Cal State San Bernardino, offers students college-level nursing courses to get a head start on their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program enables students to save thousands of dollars and, upon completion, launch rewarding careers as registered nurses with competitive salaries.

“The hands-on experiences students gain in CTE pathways provide an advantage in pursuing internships and careers in competitive industries. Our students come out of CTE courses ready to expand their education in career fields they are passionate about,” said Halt.

More than one-fifth of Estancia’s graduates completed a CTE pathway. A focus on career readiness ensures that graduates are not only college-prepared but also equipped with the practical skills desired in the workforce.

Visit the CTE webpage to learn more. 

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

As noted in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District Strategic Arts Plan, Estancia’s arts programs will be expanded and enhanced. Currently, more than 30 students participate in the drama program, engaging in a creative process as they learn about the fundamentals of theater, from acting to costuming to set design to technical work. 

While a modern theater is being built on campus (with an anticipated opening for the start of the 2025-26 school year), students continue to create theatrical productions; this year’s slate of shows includes “Fools,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and the student-written skit series “The Original Show.” 

In addition to drama, students participate in  band, jazz, orchestra, and marching band. Members of the marching band perform pep tunes and half-time shows during school athletic events and compete in Battles of the Bands, parades, and celebrations in the local community. They are joined by color guard students, who perform dances and choreographed routines with flags, ribbons, and rifles. 

Within the Arts Department, a diverse array of paintings and drawings captures both realistic and abstract perspectives, reflecting the students' depth of creative expression. Ceramics students demonstrate their skill in manipulating clay to craft sophisticated and artistic creations, underscoring the program’s emphasis on technique and innovation. 

“Estancia has rich traditions within the arts, and we love to showcase our students’ creativity and passions,” said Assistant Principal Jennifer Chamberlin.

ATHLETICS

Athletics programs encourage physical health and teamwork while teaching students valuable skills such as discipline, leadership, and resilience. Through athletics, students create a sense of belonging and shared history. Estancia offers a variety of opportunities for athletic students to find their community.

Among the sports available are boys’ baseball, co-ed football, girls’ flag football, boys’ and girls’ basketball, girls’ beach volleyball, boys’ and girls’ soccer, co-ed swimming, co-ed wrestling, and more. In recent years, the school has been recognized with CIF championships in baseball and girls’ soccer.

“Sports foster a strong community bond at Estancia, whether students are playing or cheering on their peers. We have a unity in school spirit that’s unmatched,” said Halt.   

CAMPUS CLUBS 

With a diverse student population, Estancia has something for everyone with more than 60 clubs. 

To help guide new students through their freshman year there is Link Crew, in which Estancia juniors and seniors mentor and provide support for incoming students, making them feel more comfortable in their new environment. Studies have shown that the connections developed during this transition year facilitate student success and promote a positive school culture.

The Acts of Random Kindness (ARK) Club hosts activities to create a positive campus culture that unites students, encouraging an atmosphere of inclusion through events such as World Heritage Week and Kindness Week.   

Building on that spirit of belonging is the Best Buddies Club, where students with special needs are paired with students during shared activities to foster friendships and further build connections for a positive school culture. 

Estancia students also have the opportunity to be a part of the Key Club, the oldest and largest nonprofit student-led organization, through a partnership with the Costa Mesa chapter of Kiwanis International. Students develop character through service events, learning inclusivity, fundraising, and leadership. Similarly, the Leo Club partners with the local Lions Club to develop leadership skills while organizing and executing community service opportunities. 

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Student success at Estancia is complimented by strong community partnerships and generous partners. One example is the Simon Scholars Program from the Ronald M. Simon Family Foundation, which provides scholarships, up to $16,000, and college preparation support to select students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher who demonstrate school and community leadership. 

Students are also provided leadership-building opportunities through organizations such as United Way Orange County, YES Workforce Development, Resilience OC, and SOY, among others. 

The combination of a caring community, inclusive atmosphere, and comprehensive programs makes Estancia High School a standout place for students to learn and excel. The school’s positive culture nurtures the development of well-rounded individuals who are prepared to excel in higher education and life beyond the classroom.