New principals named across Downey Unified

Downey Unified School District's newly appointed principals for the 2026-27 school year, from left to right: Joe Ortiz, Principal of Stauffer Middle School; Travis Crow, Principal of the Downey Adult School; Kathy Nicassio, Principal of Sussman Middle School; Lindsay Cozart, Principal of Ward Elementary School; Sylvia Estrella, Principal of Williams Elementary School; Heather Curcio, Principal of Gauldin Elementary School; and Adrian Quintero, Principal of Downey High School.

DOWNEY — Downey Unified School District has announced seven principal appointments for the 2026-27 school year, including new leaders at three elementary schools, two middle schools, Downey High School and Downey Adult School.

The appointments come as the district prepares for students to return Thursday, Aug. 13.

“Strong school leadership plays a critical role in creating positive, supportive and high-achieving learning environments,” Superintendent Dr. Roger Brossmer said. “We are excited to welcome these talented leaders to their new roles and look forward to the impact they will have on their school communities.”

At the elementary level, Heather Curcio has been named principal of Gauldin Elementary School. Curcio previously served as vice principal at Gallatin Elementary and has more than 20 years of experience in Downey Unified.

Lindsay Cozart will lead Ward Elementary School after serving as vice principal at Rio San Gabriel Elementary School.

Sylvia Estrella will move from Gauldin Elementary to Williams Elementary, succeeding longtime Principal Billie Barrios, who retired.

At the secondary level, Joe Ortiz has been named principal of Stauffer Middle School. Ortiz brings instructional leadership and secondary education experience from Warren High School.

Kathy Nicassio will become principal of Sussman Middle School following her tenure as principal of Doty Middle School.

Adrian Quintero has been named principal of Downey High School. Quintero has worked in Downey Unified for more than two decades and brings extensive experience within the district.

Travis Crow will serve as principal of Downey Adult School, succeeding Blanca Rochin, who is retiring after serving the school community since 2008.

Crow is returning to Downey Unified after previously working as a dean at Sussman Middle School and Downey High School.

Downey Unified serves students through three high schools, four middle schools, 13 elementary schools and one adult school.