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Hundreds of parents and students urge board to reinstate CDM choir director
Summary
An organized group of Corona del Mar parents, students and alumni gave emotional testimony supporting choir director Andrew Ball, citing international tours, awards and student mentorship; the superintendent declined to comment on personnel but pledged to support the program while the district follows protocol.
Dozens of current and former students and parents from Corona del Mar High School filled the board chamber on Aug. 21 to urge the Newport‑Mesa Unified School District to reinstate vocal director Andrew Ball.
"Mr. Ball has done an amazing job forming a community built around acceptance and kindness," said Gabriela D'Agostino, a CDM student. Several students gave individual testimonials. Jason Barber, a six‑year student of Ball's, said, "He's the greatest male role model I've ever had in my entire life." Parents and alumni described Ball's program as nationally and internationally recognized, noting tours and awards and asserting the program's positive impact on student mental health and belonging.
Why it matters: Speakers said the vocal program provides unique opportunities — international trips, retreats and high levels of student engagement — and argued that loss of a long‑standing director would harm students' social and academic experiences.
District response and personnel limits: During public comment the superintendent said he "can't speak about personal matters" but thanked parents and students for showing up and said the district is committed to supporting the program while staff address personnel matters through appropriate channels.
Next steps: No personnel action was taken during the meeting; the board did not discuss individual personnel details in open session. Supporters urged the board to consider increasing program support and parent involvement so responsibilities are not carried by a single staff member.
Ending: The board received the public comments and trustees thanked parents for their testimony; staff said they will work with site principals and the superintendent's office on follow‑up within the bounds of personnel confidentiality.
