Congratulations, class of 2023!

As we celebrate the end of another successful school year, the Downey Board of Education would like to extend our gratitude to the countless people in our community for your dedication and commitment to the success of our students.

Together, as a community, we have achieved significant milestones this year and continue to set the stage for an even brighter future for our students. The end of the school year is a time of reflection which brings great pride as we celebrate the outstanding accomplishments that have shaped Downey Unified School District this academic year.

Our students have thrived in so many areas this year. From jaw-dropping artistic performances to noteworthy athletic victories, we have seen our students grow. Your hard work, determination, and creativity have made an impression on us and we couldn’t be more proud of each one and every one of you.

This week will be the culmination of the exceptional Class of 2023. Seniors have reached a monumental milestone after years of commitment to their education and preparation for their future. Together with their families, we will cheer and honor their achievements during our commencement ceremonies of the Virtual Academy, Downey High and Warren High students this week followed by the Columbus High and middle school promotions next week.

As we honor the successes of our student achievements, it is also fitting to extend our warmest gratitude to the faculty and staff of Downey Unified who have dedicated their careers to preparing our children for adulthood. You are the backbone of our District and provide the tools for our students to be able to grow. Your unwavering commitment and passion results in a learning environment for our students that allow them to thrive and dream big. I would like to personally thank all of you for the dedication and love you demonstrate on behalf of our students. A special applause is extended to the 143 Downey Unified staff members who will be transitioning into retirement at the end of this school year. Your individual and collective efforts have changed the lives of so many students. Our community is grateful for your work and dedication. You will always be a part of our Downey Unified family.

We are filled with anticipation and excitement of the vast opportunities that lie ahead. Downey Unified School District remains committed in providing a dynamic education for all our students, preparing them to be both college and career ready upon graduation. Together, we will continue to embrace innovation, cultivate a culture of belonging and empower our students to become the leaders of tomorrow.

For those of you taking our summer enrichment classes, I look forward to seeing you soon as we kick-off summer school during the week of June 12th. I hope you enjoy your much deserved summer break, Downey Unified. I look forward to a productive 2023-24 school year. The first day of school is on Wednesday, August 16th.

Congratulations, Class of 2023!

Giggy Perez-Saab
Board of Education President