New East Valley charter school begins enrollment

NEWS Point Academy is now enrolling students for its inaugural 2026–27 school year.

The new tuition-free public charter high school in Mesa is designed to combine rigorous academics with elite athletic development.

Located at the Arizona Athletic Grounds, 6321 S. Ellsworth Road, Field House C, NEWS Point Academy will open in July 2026 serving ninth- and 10^th-grade students, with plans to expand into a full four-year high school.

The school held a grand opening ceremony on Thursday co-hosted by the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce.

"Standing here today is incredibly meaningful because this moment represents a vision brought to life — a vision rooted in opportunity, access, and community,” Melaine Larson, dean of schools for NEWS Point Academy, stated in a press release. “NEWS Point Academy was founded on the belief that the exceptional opportunities often associated with private education should be accessible to all students through a free public charter school."

Students at NEWS Point Academy will have access to:

• A college-prep, International Baccalaureate-aligned academic program
• Coaching and mentorship
• Access to athletic facilities at Arizona Athletic Grounds
• Leadership-focused student development

Through instruction and coaching, the school aims to develop well-rounded students who thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

"We set out to create a place where students can excel academically, grow as athletes, and develop into leaders guided by integrity, sportsmanship and a strong sense of responsibility to their community,” Larson stated.

For more information about NEWS Point Academy, visit www.newspointacademy.org.