On Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. Unsworth Elementary School will be featured on an episode of Nickelodeon’s “The Substitute.” Being featured in the sixth episode of the second season of this television series, crew members from Nickelodeon visited Downey Unified in November to film this surprise. This filming was done with extensive safety protocols in place that included prior parental authorization, rapid COVID testing and social distancing electronic monitors all while being filmed outdoors. Approximately 15 students will be featured in this episode where NBA superstar and Brooklyn Nets’ Center, DeAndre Jordan, goes undercover at Unsworth to surprise the students and at the end, presents the school with a $25,000 donation.
Similar to the previous episode of “The Substitute” where Lewis Elementary and Stauffer Middle schools were featured, this episode concluded with their celebrity guest unveiling a donation that will be used in support of Unsworth Elementary School students and programs. Depending on the cable provider, this episode will be aired Saturday evening but will also be available online through various platforms. It will also be aired for a second and third time on Saturday, Jan 16, at 9:30 p.m. on the Teen Nick channel and Sunday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. on Nickelodeon if you miss the initial airing.
“Having our school community participate in Nickelodeon’s ‘The Substitute’ was a tremendous gift,” expressed Unsworth Elementary School Principal Kelley Rush-Becker. “During these difficult times, showcasing our school and our amazing students, was a much-needed lift. We are thankful to Nickelodeon for selecting us and to our District for their ongoing support.”
“The Substitute” is a hidden camera show that features celebrities who go under cover as professionals in various fields, surprising unsuspecting kids in schools, camps and other locations. Transformed by a team of special effects artists, the celebrities hide their true identities as they attempt to fool unsuspecting youngsters. During the reveal of a celebrity, a $25,000 donation is made to the organization.