NEWPORT BEACH

During the school year, Newport-Mesa schools are cited for their reading, writing and math programs. This summer, the district has resembled little more than a construction site. Class-size reduction, new school configurations and maintenance problems such as leaky air conditioners and sewage-spewing bathrooms have all combined to keep district maintenance staff much busier than usual, said Eric Jetta of the district’s maintenance and operations department. “We really take pride in pulling this off,” Jetta said. To handle the extra workload, more than 25 contractors are on the job. Jetta said district officials are aiming to finish up by Sept. 3, but some jobs may not be completed by then. Schools will open Sept. 9, as planned.