Our School

Meet Our Principal

Gladys Diaz

Ms. Gladys Diaz

Dear Ward Elementary Families,

It is with great honor and excitement I introduce myself as the new Principal of Ward Elementary. I look forward to meeting each of you and joining the Wildcat pride as we start the school year! I am confident in our partnership to provide the best education and care for our students as we empower them to grow and thrive during their time at Ward.

I’d love to tell you that I was Ward’s Vice Principal in 2016 and I wish I can express to you what a sweet return this has been for me! My experiences have given me a passion for working with all learners, building upon their strengths and bringing about the kindness that already exists in us all.

I am thankful for the leadership of Mrs. Karen Trejo and the leaders who have gone before me to help make Ward a special place. Thank you for entrusting me with your child. It is an honor to serve you!

Respectfully,
Gladys Diaz, Principal

Fun Facts:

  • Ms. Diaz attended Griffith’s Middle School and graduated from Warren High School!
  • She loves Downey Unified so much that it is the only district she has ever worked for.
  • In her free time, Ms. Diaz loves horseback riding and the ocean sunsets.

Our Mission

E.W. Ward School’s mission is to provide all students with a positive and challenging learning environment, which empowers them to become responsible and productive citizens.

The staff, parents, and community are committed to developing the social, emotional, academic, and physical well-being of all students. By focusing on critical thinking skills in all curricular areas, students will become decision-makers and risk-takers who are literate and proficient in mathematics and technology. They will be life-long learners in the twenty-first century.

Students paying attention to a teacher in class

Our Vision

The staff, parents, and community are committed to developing the social, emotional, academic and physical well-being of all students. By focusing on critical thinking skills in all curricular areas, students will become decision-makers and risk-takers who are literate and proficient in mathematics and technology.  They will be life-long learners in the twenty-first century.

Ward students smiling at camera