Costa Mesa High School/Middle School is the gem of Costa Mesa. But how did our campus become the campus we have today?
Costa Mesa High School was established in 1958 and was at first just a high school.
Soon after the school was established, our freshman/sophomore baseball team was the first to win a CIF Championship in 1961.
Back when our school was first opening up, the library was in the councilors office with 22 books per student. Then, by 1963 it was moved to its current location as a two story library. Later, it was condensed to the ground floor.
In the early 1990’s Davis Middle School joined Costa Mesa High School.
Our school and others in the district were not modernized and up to date, so in 2008 Measure A was introduced. This is when the balcony above the library was closed and when air conditioning was installed. During this period tech supplies were needed.
Mr. Hancock had this to say about Measure A, “Measure A was great, but it only put air conditioning in about half the classrooms. My room (273) was not one of the lucky ones. Fortunately, my neighbor’s room was so I’d stand in Bill Klosters doorway between classes to cool off.”
In 2009 plans were made to add a new enclave and performing arts center. The following year a $6.6ML aquatics center, which used to be a 25 yard “L” shaped pool and locker rooms were added.
In 2013 new track and field plans were being placed and final construction was being done for the Enclave. That next year the 335-seat theater was completed and ready for students to use.
By 2016 the final addition was made to the school when the football stadium and track and field were completed. According to Mr. Hancock, the controversy over the stadium was about how many seats would be installed. In the end, enough seats were added so that large football games and graduation ceremonies could be hosted.
All of these changes and updates over the years resulted in the Costa Mesa High School we see today.
