Meet Ward’s Liaison
Yvette Arteaga
Hello Ward Wildcats! My name is Yvette Arteaga, and I am the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Liaison for Ward Elementary. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from the California State University of Long Beach.
For the past five years I have worked in the non-profit sector helping the needs of families in the community. I worked in children’s education in the after-school care field by supporting students to reach their academic goals and engaged families in workshops to help foster stronger family relationships. Additionally, I have experience teaching families therapeutic art lessons at Parent Resource Centers in schools to help parents engage in self-care services.
At Ward, I will collaborate with the school staff, community partners, and on-site support services to enhance family engagement and raise awareness about community resources and services.
I am excited to be working with educators, families, and students!
Contact me: yarteaga@dusd.net
Find me in the Front Office
Building Stronger Connections for Student Success
Downey Unified School District is excited to announce the launch of an innovative program aimed at transforming the way schools support students and their families. The Community Schools Initiative is a groundbreaking effort to foster partnerships between schools, community agencies, and the district to address the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. This initiative focuses on creating a seamless network of support that bridges gaps and ensures every student has the resources they need to succeed.
What Are Community Schools?
At its core, the Community Schools model is about collaboration. It transforms schools into hubs that provide not only quality education but also access to vital services and resources. These services include academics, health and social supports, youth and community development programs, and opportunities for family and community engagement. By aligning resources with the unique needs of each school community, the initiative is designed to improve student outcomes while fostering a sense of connection and support.
How Does It Work?
Each participating school in the Community Schools program will have a dedicated Family and Community Engagement Liaison. These liaisons will work closely with families to connect them with resources such as counseling, after-school programs, and tutoring. They will also help coordinate workshops on topics like parenting skills, mental health awareness, and college readiness. At the district level, Family and Community Engagement Specialists will oversee the program, ensuring its alignment with district-wide goals and providing training for teachers and staff on effective communication and cultural competency.
Together, these roles aim to:
- Build Connections: Forge partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and nonprofits to create opportunities for family involvement, mentorship programs, and cultural events.
- Promote Equity: Advocate for policies that support all families, including flexible meeting times and resources for non-English-speaking households.
- Support Attendance: Reengage students and families to improve school attendance and participation.
- Enhance Feedback: Collect input from families to identify needs and improve programs.
We are excited to be able to support our community in a new way. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to your liaison!
Want to Get Involved?
If you are interested in participating, please contact your school’s FACE liaison, email/phone or complete our Advisory Council Interest Form. Everyone is welcome.
Once an advisory council is established, all calendar opportunities should be posted, and agenda and minutes will be shared.