Welcome back to school, Downey Unified

Welcome back, Downey Unified! We are officially into our second week of the 2023-24 school year. It was a delight to see our campuses bustling once again with eager learners, dedicated educators, and the promise of a new school year filled with growth and accomplishments.

I would like to officially welcome all of our students back. Your enthusiasm and determination are the driving force behind our educational community which are here to support you. As you enter a new grade, please remember that each day holds the potential for a new adventure in learning, discovery and personal achievement.

We are fortunate to also welcome many newcomers to our Downey Unified family. You have joined a community that values your unique talents and perspectives, and we are excited to support your journey of growth and learning.

Downey Unified is committed to continue to provide a wide range of services to our students. In 2000, Downey Unified was one of the first school districts in the United States to provide a Family Resource Center, which we named TLC, that has continued to change lives to this day. In addition to our wonderful TLC Family Resource Center, I would like to take a moment to draw attention to our Wellness Centers/Spaces that are present on every single campus across our district. These spaces are not just physical places, but also symbolic of our commitment of supporting the well-being and mental health of our students.

We understand that a healthy mind is vital for a successful educational journey, and our Wellness Centers/Spaces offer a range of resources, counseling services and a safe space for students. Remember, you are never alone in your journey. Through our Wellness Centers, TLC and other mental health staff, we are here to provide the support you need.

As we embrace the new school year, I invite you to support our student athletes by attending the many various sporting events throughout the year. I encourage all students and families to review the upcoming sports schedules, not only for our high schools but also for our middle schools, as we have new facilities at all four middle school campuses. I invite everyone to come out and cheer for our teams as they compete and demonstrate the character and values of Downey Unified.

In our ever-changing digital age, communication is key. I urge all families to confirm that their contact information is up to date with both their respective schools and the district. This ensures timely updates, important announcements and any crucial information from your child's school and from our district. Open lines of communication between home and school are vital for your child's success, and we want to keep you informed every step of the way.

As we dive into this school year, let's approach it with enthusiasm, a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to supporting one another. Together, we will create an educational experience that prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to our Downey Unified family!

Sincerely,

Giggy Perez-Saab
Board of Education President