School News
News & Announcements
Ward Earns California PBIS Gold Award
PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. In simple terms, it means we teach, practice, and celebrate the positive behaviors that help our students learn and feel safe at school.
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.
New Share Tables Encourage Less Food Waste
In an effort to reduce food waste at Downey Unified schools, this school year, we’ll be introducing new share tables in our lunchrooms.
Back to School Night | Sept 11
Back-to-school night is the perfect opportunity to get a preview of what your child’s school year will look like. From meeting their teacher, learning about the curriculum, and understanding the expectations; this night serves as a way to prepare...
Your Presence is Powerful: Attendance Awareness Month Starts Soon!
September is Attendance Awareness Month and we want to remind you that every day counts, and we believe that your presence is truly powerful.
Why Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is the Perfect Start for Your Child
Starting school is a big step, and every child deserves to begin that journey feeling confident, supported, and ready to learn. That’s where Transitional Kindergarten (TK) comes in—a special, no-cost, full-day program designed just for four-year-olds. Think of TK as...
Help Fill Student Backpacks This Back-to-School Season!
At the heart of every successful student lies a foundation of support. The TLC Family Resource Center is dedicated to building that foundation for the children of Downey Unified School District. True Lasting Connections for a Bright Future TLC's mission is to create a...
Stay Connected! Get Important Updates from Your School & the District
ParentSquare provides a simple and safe way for everyone at school and across the district to connect.
25-26 Back-to-School Dates & Tips to Get Ready
Get ready for Downey Unified back to school for the 2025-26 school year! Find key dates, tips, and info to help your child start the year confident and prepared.
From Elementary to Middle: How Parents Can Help
While graduating from fifth grade and moving up to middle school is certainly an exciting time in a student’s life, it can also feel somewhat intimidating because of the uncertainty of starting at a new school. Going from being the oldest grade level to the youngest...
Annual Verification (Registration) Opens July 1
What you need to know: this mandatory process occurs every summer to ensure essential information is accurate for the new school year.
Seamless Summer Meal Program 2025
Students 18 and under are able to get one free breakfast and/or one free lunch per day at any of the following locations during the days/times indicated.
The Difference Between Enrollment and Registration (Annual Verification)
Enrolling a student at Downey Unified only happens once. Registration is an Annual Information Verification happens every year before school starts. Learn more about both!
Helping Students Keep Their Minds Engaged over Summer Break
There are plenty of ways for students to remain sharp throughout the summer while enjoying their time off.
STEAMworks Starts June 11 | Register Now
This exciting opportunity runs from June 11 to July 10 and is designed to spark curiosity and learning through hands-on experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM).
The Final Stretch: Your Presence is Powerful
Finish the year strong! Every school day counts—don’t miss out on key moments, tests, and celebrations. Let’s keep attendance a priority! Your presence is powerful.
Teaching Kids Healthy Eating Habits
Discover how you can support lifelong healthy eating habits for your child—partner with Downey Unified to promote wellness at home!
April is Stress Awareness Month
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Discover how Downey Unified supports students and families with tools to manage stress during Stress Awareness Month.
Spring Break | April 14-21
Spring Break is just around the corner! There will be no school from April 14–21, 2025. Classes will resume on TUESDAY, April 22.
DUSD Mariachi Festival | April 5th
Join us on April 5th at the Downey High School Allen Layne Stadium for a celebration of music, culture and community. RSVP now.
Future Wildcats Tours
Are you interested in enrolling at Ward Elementary? Come explore our school at a Future Wildcats Tour March 26, 28 or April 4.
What’s the Difference Between TK and Kindergarten?
Understanding the difference between TK and Kindergarten is essential for parents exploring early education options.
Serving Up Sustainable, Grass-Fed Beef to Our Students
DUSD serves grass-fed beef to students thanks to a new partnership with Cream Co. Meats.
Open House is March 25, 2025
Join us on for an exciting evening that celebrates your child’s growth and achievements.
Words of Wisdom
“Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights.“
– John Wooden






















