Home
RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE, AND READY.
The Future Begins Here
About Us
At Mendez Fundamental Intermediate School, a California Distinguished School, our mission is to create a rigorous learning environment that sets high expectations for student success through standards-based, student-centered instruction. We believe that education is a shared responsibility among students, parents, the school, and the community. Together, we strive to provide an academically enriching, caring, and supportive environment that fosters respect and motivates students to learn, act responsibly, monitor their own academic progress, and develop skills for lifelong success.
Principal's Message
It is my sincere honor and privilege to serve as the principal of Mendez Fundamental Intermediate School. I am excited to welcome you to the 2025–2026 school year as we continue our commitment to providing high-quality instruction for every student. Mendez is proud to be a California Distinguished School, home to talented students, dedicated families, and an exceptional staff.
As a STEAM school, we offer a wide range of engaging electives, including Design and Modeling, Robotics, Computer Science, Esports, Rocketry, Game Programming, Art, and Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Band and Orchestra, among others. Our school-wide AVID program further equips students with the skills, strategies, and mindset needed for success in high school, college, and future careers.
Guided by our district’s three goals—promoting literacy, advancing English learner reclassification, and preparing students for college and career readiness—our teachers use research-based strategies and foster critical thinking to create rigorous and meaningful learning experiences. We strive to ensure every student is challenged, supported, and prepared for the opportunities ahead.
Your role as parents and guardians is essential to sustaining our success. Encouraging strong study habits, a commitment to hard work, and thoughtful planning for the future will help your child reach their highest potential. I invite you to get involved and be an active partner in our school community as we continue to embody our Mustang values: Respectful, Responsible, and Ready.
Go Mustangs!
Gabriel Moreno
Principal
Early College
High school students can take college courses and earn credit toward their degree while still enrolled in SAUSD.
Early Childhood Education
Programs are available for children as young as age 2, providing a strong start for lifelong learning.
SAUSD Arts
Students explore creativity through music, dance, theater, and visual arts programs that enrich learning and expression across all grade levels.
STEAM Education
Students engage in hands-on learning that integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and math to build creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
21st Century Career Academies
Real-world experience comes to life through themed academies that connect classroom learning with career pathways in health care, business, engineering, and other in-demand fields.
Dual Language Immersion
Bilingualism and biliteracy are nurtured through programs that develop proficiency in English and a partner language while fostering cultural understanding.
Education for a Brighter Tomorrow
Why SAUSD?
Education at SAUSD is about more than academics—it’s about preparing every student to thrive in a rapidly changing world. We equip students with critical thinking skills, creativity, and resilience, while fostering inclusivity and respect for diverse voices. By connecting learning to real-life opportunities and embracing innovation, we ensure our students are not only ready for the future but also empowered to shape it.
Upcoming Events
Happening Around Mendez Fundamental
Modified Day
all day
Organization Check (ELA)
all day
UCLA Field Trip (6th, 7th, and 8th Grade AVID students)
-
Schedule B
all day
Stay in the Know
The Latest News
Stay connected to all that’s happening across Santa Ana Unified School District. From important announcements and Board updates to inspiring stories from our schools and community, this is your hub for the latest news, events, and highlights. Visit often to learn how SAUSD is preparing students for success today and into the future.
![SNAP Benefits flyer]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1762463124/sausdus/ojoqfo29gvtcuuc2emaa/1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1762463124/sausdus/ojoqfo29gvtcuuc2emaa/1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1762463124/sausdus/ojoqfo29gvtcuuc2emaa/1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1762463124/sausdus/ojoqfo29gvtcuuc2emaa/1.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1762463124/sausdus/ojoqfo29gvtcuuc2emaa/1.png","width":1600}])
SAUSD to Provide Additional Meals Amid SNAP Benefits Disruption
Following recent federal SNAP benefit reductions tied to the government shutdown, Santa Ana Unified School District is expanding efforts to ensure every child in our community continues to have access to nutritious meals.
![Two employees of the month]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761771988/sausdus/alqqackkmhxuc8deprto/OCTOBEREOM2025.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761771988/sausdus/alqqackkmhxuc8deprto/OCTOBEREOM2025.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761771988/sausdus/alqqackkmhxuc8deprto/OCTOBEREOM2025.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761771988/sausdus/alqqackkmhxuc8deprto/OCTOBEREOM2025.png","width":1080}])
SAUSD Honors October 2025 Employees of the Month
The Certificated Employee of the Month is Veronica DeBruhl, Teacher at
Carver Elementary School. The Classified Employee of the Month is Anaiah Erdtsieck, Library Media Technician at Edison Elementary School.
![Agenda for the Santa Ana Unified School District Regular Board of Education Meeting - Oct. 28, 2025]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1760138816/sausdus/o4jd4o64ofo1y5lf72od/IG-SAUSDBoardofEducationMeeting.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1760138816/sausdus/o4jd4o64ofo1y5lf72od/IG-SAUSDBoardofEducationMeeting.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1760138816/sausdus/o4jd4o64ofo1y5lf72od/IG-SAUSDBoardofEducationMeeting.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1760138816/sausdus/o4jd4o64ofo1y5lf72od/IG-SAUSDBoardofEducationMeeting.png","width":1080}])
Agenda for the Santa Ana Unified School District Regular Board of Education Meeting - Oct. 28, 2025
Click here to access the agenda, learn how to submit a request to address the Board of Education and watch the meeting live.
![Círculos High School Named Orange County Impact School]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761086901/sausdus/yzsyje5rkrpiqey6e690/CirculosOCDEImpactAward2025.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761086901/sausdus/yzsyje5rkrpiqey6e690/CirculosOCDEImpactAward2025.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761086901/sausdus/yzsyje5rkrpiqey6e690/CirculosOCDEImpactAward2025.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761086901/sausdus/yzsyje5rkrpiqey6e690/CirculosOCDEImpactAward2025.png","width":1080}])
Círculos High School Named Orange County Impact School
Congratulations to Círculos High School at Advanced Learning Academy for being recognized as an Orange County Impact School by the Orange County Department of Education! This honor celebrates Círculos’ innovative approach to education, strong collaboration, and creative strategies that are transforming student learning and strengthening community connections. Click here to learn more.
Agenda for the Santa Ana Unified School District Special Board of Education Meeting - Oct. 20, 2025
Click here to access the agenda, learn how to submit a request to address the Board of Education and watch the meeting live.
Connect With Us
The Latest News