News

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) welcomes Dr. Ixchel Sanchez as the principal of TeWinkle Middle School. Dr. Sanchez has 25 years of experience in public education and is excited to join the team.

A passionate educator, Dr. Sanchez is committed to creating environments that provide high-quality education for all students, removing barriers and promoting a culture of inclusion. Dr. Sanchez has served as a high school principal, assistant principal and site administrator in Rowland, Baldwin Park, Brea Olinda and Downey Unified School Districts. Prior to that, she was an English Language coordinator, as well as English and English Language Development teacher at Downey High School. 

“All students can learn, given the right tools, guidance and opportunities in a setting that fosters high expectations, collaboration and continuous improvements. Removing any limitations or obstacles for students remains a constant for me as I continue in my educational leadership journey,” she said.

Self-described as not only high-energy and fun-loving, but also results-driven and focused, Dr. Sanchez is a first-generation college graduate. She earned her doctorate from the University of Southern California (USC), her master’s from University of La Verne, and her bachelor’s from University of California, Irvine. She also received a certificate in business management from USC and completed the Association of California School Administrators’ Curriculum and Instructional Leaders Academy.

“Her understanding of secondary education, multi-tiered systems of support, English Language Development, and sound instructional practices will not only be a fit for TeWinkle, but also add to our administrative team,” said Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Leona Olson.  

Dr. Sanchez starts on August 19, 2022. In the meantime, Dr. Shannon Bray, a highly regarded former principal at NMUSD, will be preparing TeWinkle for the 2022-23 school year and assisting in the transition.