Principal's Message
Welcome to the 2026–2027 School Year!

Dear Ensign Families,
I am beyond excited to be at the helm of Ensign Intermediate School and to welcome each of you to what promises to be an incredible school year.
Ensign is an exceptional school with talented students, dedicated educators, supportive families, and a caring community. Together, we share a common purpose: ensuring every student feels challenged, supported, welcomed, and inspired to reach their full potential. I firmly believe that when schools and families work together with a shared vision, there is no limit to what our students can achieve.
As Seabees, we strive to live our core values of kindness, respect, and perseverance every day. These values shape our classrooms, guide our decisions, and define the culture we build together. We believe that every student deserves to feel connected and valued, and I encourage each student to become involved in the many opportunities Ensign has to offer through athletics, the arts, leadership, clubs, and service. These experiences help students discover their passions, develop confidence, and build lasting relationships that make middle school both meaningful and memorable.
This year, our focus is on creating a culture where every student and every adult brings positive energy, embraces challenges as opportunities to grow, and works together toward continuous improvement. Throughout the year, we will strengthen systems that balance academic rigor with meaningful support while fostering collaboration, responsibility, and resilience.
Academically, we will place a strong emphasis on organization and writing across all content areas. Students will learn strategies to manage their time and materials, set goals, monitor their progress, and develop the study habits that lead to lifelong success. At the same time, they will use writing to communicate ideas clearly, explain their thinking, analyze complex concepts, and deepen their understanding in every classroom. These essential skills prepare students not only for success in high school, but also for college, careers, and an ever-changing world.
Our work is grounded in a simple belief: every student can learn, grow, and succeed when surrounded by caring adults who hold high expectations and provide the support needed to reach them. As educators, we are committed to continuously learning alongside our students, collaborating as professionals, and celebrating progress every step of the way. Excellence is not a destination—it is a journey we take together.
Having dedicated my career to serving students and families in Newport-Mesa Unified School District, I know that the middle school years are among the most influential in a young person's life. These are the years when students begin discovering who they are, developing independence, and building the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. It is both an honor and a privilege to partner with you during this important chapter.
Communication and partnership are essential to student success, and I look forward to working alongside our families throughout the year. Please don't hesitate to reach out by phone, email, or by stopping by the office. I also encourage you to become involved with one of our outstanding parent organizations, including the Ensign Fund, PTA, ELAC, School Site Council, and our Navigators. Your partnership strengthens our school and helps create the supportive community every child deserves.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child each day. I am honored to serve as your principal and look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, service, and celebration.
Together, let's make this an extraordinary year.
Go Seabees!
Dr. Jennifer Fox
Principal
Ensign Intermediate School
