Incoming 10th, 11th and 12th grade students are encouraged to apply… Application below!
Do you enjoy collaborating with your peers, providing your input on important school issues and being part of a thoughtful process resulting in innovative solutions? If so, apply to be a member of the SSAC!
“Elevating student voices is critical in shaping conversations about education and creating change.”
John A. Garcia, Jr., Ph.D., Superintendent
As the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee embarks on its third year, Downey Unified Superintendent, Dr. John Garcia, invites high school students, in the 10th-12th grade this upcoming school year, to take part in this unique opportunity!
Students who successfully go through the application process will serve on the committee, alongside its existing veteran members who participated in the 2022-23 school year. After selection, each student is required to provide verification of parent(s) or legal guardian(s) permission to participate.
For the 2023-24 school year, the 27-member committee will be comprised of 12 members from Downey High School and Warren High School, each; two members from Columbus High School; and one member from Downey Unified Virtual Academy. Each year, the selection committee makes an effort to represent different grades and high school experiences in their member selections.
Reference Requirement
In addition to an online application, students must also identify a Teacher, Administrator or Certificated School Staff Member (e.g. a Counselor, School Psychologist, Dean, Advisor, etc.), at their current school, to submit a Reference Form on their behalf. It is the student’s responsibility to send their identified reference the online form for completion and submission by the deadline indicated below. Only one reference is required.
Deadline
The online Application and Reference Forms are due on or by Friday, May 12, 2023.
Meeting Attendance Requirements and Schedule
Due to the advisory nature of the SSAC and topics discussed, it is of utmost importance that ALL members attend ALL scheduled meetings and stay in communication about their attendance. Monthly meetings are at 4:00 pm at the District Office. Student members are expected to attend and be active participants in each meeting.
Selection Criteria
Students who submit a complete Application and Reference from will be considered for the member selection process. Selection criteria for the Student Application and Reference Form include:
- Student Applicant is a current Downey Unified student
- Student Applicant attends Columbus, Downey, Warren High School or Virtual Academy
- Student Applicant is in grade 10, 11, or 12 for the 2023-24 school year
- Student Application was submitted complete, online and by the due date
- Student submitted satisfactory responses to:
- Listing of academic achievements, honors, extra-curricular activities, and work experience (if applicable). Explanation of how these activities have enhanced the applicant’s leadership ability.
- Identifying/discussing what the applicant considers the most challenging issue(s) affecting students at Downey Unified, why and what students can do to make a difference.
- Explaining why the applicant wants to serve as a member of the Advisory Committee and what they plan to contribute to the role.
- Student submitted satisfactory responses to:
- Reference Form was submitted complete, online and by the due date
- The Reference Form is completed by a current Downey Unified teacher, administrator, or certificated staff (e.g. a Counselor, School Psychologist, Dean, Advisory, etc.), at the student’s current school.
- Student received satisfactory marks in the following criteria on their Reference Form:
- Responsibility
- Resourcefulness
- Cooperation
- Reliability
- Preparedness
- Student is respected by peers
- Reference’s recommendation that the student be considered for the Committee
- Any specific skills or characteristics that the Reference thinks the student applicant has that would benefit the Advisory Committee.
Application Window Closed on Friday, May 12, 2023
Learn more about the SSAC here.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the application process or selection criteria, please contact the Superintendent’s Office at (562) 469-6517 or email studentadvisory@dusd.net.