We are bursting with Pioneer, Knight, and Thunderbird pride! We are thrilled to announce that Doty, Griffiths, and Sussman Middle Schools have been officially recognized as 2026 California Distinguished Schools.
This prestigious honor, awarded by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, places our schools among the top-performing campuses in the state. Out of thousands of schools across California, only a select few are chosen based on exceptional student performance and a commitment to closing the achievement gap.
“This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of our educators, the dedication of our students, and the unwavering support of our families,” shared District leadership. “It confirms what we’ve always known: Downey Unified is a place where students don’t just learn—they thrive.”
To our current families: thank you for being our partners in this journey. To prospective families looking for a home: there has never been a better time to join the Downey Unified family. We are raising standards, developing leaders, and celebrating excellence every single day.
About the California Distinguished Schools Program
Established in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Program is one of the state’s most prestigious honors for public schools. It recognizes campuses that demonstrate exemplary student performance or success in closing the achievement gap for historically underserved student groups.
How Schools Are Selected:
- Data-Driven: Schools do not apply for this award. Instead, they are automatically considered based on performance metrics from the California School Dashboard, including academic achievement, college and career readiness, and graduation rates.
- Strict Criteria: To qualify, schools must maintain at least 95% participation in statewide assessments and demonstrate a positive school climate, with low rates of chronic absenteeism and suspensions.
- Alternating Years: The program alternates annually; middle and high schools are recognized in even-numbered years (like 2026), while elementary schools are honored in odd-numbered years.
In 2026, only 408 middle and high schools statewide earned this distinction. These honorees will be celebrated at a formal recognition ceremony on April 24, 2026, at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.