School News
News & Announcements
Winter Break
Winter break will is Friday, Dec 20, through Friday, Jan 3. No school on Friday, Dec. 20. Students return to school on Monday, Jan 6.
Benefits of Play-Based Learning
Play-based learning is an approach used during early education that encourages curiosity and creativity as children develop essential skills.
8 Ways to Build a Healthy Attendance Routine
Here are eight tips that can help your family build a healthy attendance routine that makes getting to school on time easier.
Benefits of Eating Lunch at School
In addition to allowing families to save time and money, there are many other benefits of eating lunch at school. Learn more about them!
2025 TLC 5K Race Registration is Open
True Lasting Connections (TLC) provides a range of health and human services free of charge to DUSD students and their families. This event is a great opportunity to come together to show support for families in our community.
Free Healthy ‘Boosts’ for Students Who Bring Lunch
Did you know that your child can grab free, healthy food from the cafeteria even if they brought their own lunch?
Why Kindness Matters
The way people treat one another matters, and a simple moment of kindness can truly change someone’s life in ways others don’t always realize.
The Benefits of Attending School: Your Presence is Powerful
Regular school attendance boosts academic achievement and builds a strong foundation for social skills and responsibility.
Reflections 2024–2025: Accepting Imperfection
Take part in the Reflections art contest for TK-12th grade students to express themselves through visual arts, dance choreography, literature, music composition, film production, or photography.
Cyber Safety & Digital Citizenship
As technology advances, it’s vital to teach students safe and appropriate device use, both in and out of the classroom.
We are an Apple Distinguished School
Ward has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for its innovative implementation of technologies to enhance students’ learning opportunities.
Help Ward Win $500 to $10,000!
Shop, dine, enjoy services and entertainment venues at Lakewood, Los Cerritos & Stonewood Centers, then submit your receipts to earn $500 to $10,000 for your school. Every school wins! Based on total points accumulated between September 1, 2024 and April 30, 2025,...
Your Presence is Powerful
We want all of our students to be successful and their presence in school is a key part of that success. Their Presence is Powerful as it shows they are committed to their education, their future, and their classmates.
Understanding Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) exposes young students to kindergarten standards and helps develop fundamental skills for school.
Minimize Your Stress as the New School Year Begins
There are several ways that you can help minimize potential stress and ensure a smooth transition as your kids head back to school. You’ll be ready to eat
Our School is Now Using ParentSquare!
We are excited to announce that we have adopted a new form of school-to-home communication across Downey Unified called ParentSquare.
School Starts August 14
The first day of school will be a minimum day schedule. If you have not registered, please do so now.
Benefits of Early Education
Did you know that 90 percent of the brain develops before age 5? This is why Downey Unified has created exemplary early education programs.
Registration Open Now!
Beginning July 1, Downey Unified parents must complete or update the registration forms for each student attending the 24-25 school year.
The Difference Between Enrollment and Registration
Enrolling a student at Downey Unified only happens once. Registration happens every year. Learn more about both!
Seamless Summer Meal Program
Children 18 and under are able to get one free breakfast and lunch per day at select sites during the summer.
Last Day of School | June 5
Keep an eye open for registration starting July 1. School will be back in session August 14, 2024.
TK & Kindergarten Tours | May 22
Is your child ready to embark on an exciting educational journey? Ward Elementary is having a TK/Kinder tour on May 22.
Honoring the School Lunch Heroes Serving Healthy Meals: Celebrating School Lunch Hero Day
Downey Unified schools will celebrate School Lunch Hero Day on May 5 to celebrate DUSD school nutrition professionals.
Words of Wisdom
“Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights.“
– John Wooden