Brossmer highlights tech, career pathways at Downey Unified’s State of the Schools

Dr. Roger Brossmer speaks at the Downey Unified School District’s State of the Schools event on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. (Photo by Eric Pierce)

DOWNEY – The Downey Unified School District held its 11th annual State of the Schools breakfast Thursday morning at the Los Angeles County Office of Education, showcasing student talent, academic innovation, and a renewed commitment to preparing students for the future.

The event began with a performance from Mariachi Diamante de Downey, a mariachi ensemble made up of Downey Unified middle and high school musicians, followed by breakfast prepared by Warren High School’s Culinary Arts students.

The ceremony opened with Warren High School’s JROTC Cadet Color Guard presenting the colors. Fifth grader Abraham Carrillo led the Pledge of Allegiance, while Lilith Tobar Lara, also a fifth grader, led attendees in reciting the district’s Character Counts Pledge.

New superintendent Dr. Roger Brossmer, who succeeded retired Superintendent Dr. John Garcia earlier this year, delivered the keynote address. Brossmer outlined the district’s progress toward becoming an Apple Distinguished District, announcing that 15 campuses have now achieved Apple Distinguished School status, including all 13 elementary schools and a pair of middle schools.

“Our goal,” Brossmer said, “is for every Downey Unified school to be recognized for the innovation and creativity happening in our classrooms.” He added that schools are fully transitioning away from Google Chromebooks to iPads.

He also highlighted Downey Unified’s expanding career pathways, including a newly launched firefighting program led by retired Downey Fire Chief Dan Hurlock, giving students a direct introduction to public safety careers. Additionally, several campuses are being renovated to accommodate the district’s growing transitional kindergarten program.

The event featured recognition of Bianca Farina, Downey Unified’s Teacher of the Year. Farina, an English teacher at Columbus High School, is a former student of Brossmer. She taught at Warren High School for 13 years before moving to Columbus, where she continues to inspire and mentor students through her passion for literature and learning.

The morning included a moment of silence for longtime school board member Barbara Samperi, who passed away last month. A 1968 graduate of Warren High School, Samperi served on the Downey Unified Board of Education from 1993 until her death.

The event concluded with an interactive project led by students from Downey’s 13 Apple Distinguished elementary schools, offering attendees a firsthand look at how technology is transforming learning in the district.