Downey Unified superintendent John Garcia announces retirement

DOWNEY — After more than a decade leading Downey Unified School District and a 33-year career in education, Superintendent Dr. John A. Garcia announced his retirement, effective Aug. 1, 2025.

His announcement came during Wednesday night’s Board of Education meeting.

“It has been an incredible honor to serve as superintendent of Downey Unified, and I am forever grateful for the trust and support our board members, staff, and community have given me,” Garcia said. “Together, we have built a culture where every student can thrive, and I retire with great confidence in the future of Downey Unified.”

A product of Downey Unified himself, Garcia took over as superintendent in 2013 and has since overseen significant achievements in the district. Under his leadership, the district expanded career technical education (CTE) pathways, integrated technology into classrooms, and modernized facilities. He also championed the Unified Sports program, which recently earned the prestigious California School Boards Association Golden Bell Award.

In 2014, Garcia led the development of a Strategic Master Plan that redefined the district’s mission and vision, emphasizing innovation and student success. That same year, he played a key role in the passage of Measure O, which provided funding for high school construction projects and middle school renovations. More recently, Measure K, approved in 2022, is supporting modernization efforts at all elementary schools.

Garcia also strengthened academic programs by aligning CTE pathways with industry standards, raising graduation requirements, and increasing A-G completion rates to ensure more students meet California public university entrance requirements. His commitment to innovation helped Downey Unified earn 11 Apple Distinguished School designations and recognition as a model National Character Counts! District.

Beyond academics, Garcia reinstated middle school sports and revitalized STEAM education at the elementary level, ensuring students have access to well-rounded learning experiences.

“We are going to miss Dr. Garcia,” Board of Education President Linda Saldaña said. “His leadership as superintendent has had a positive impact on our schools and community. His vision, dedication, and commitment to student success have shaped our district to be one of the best in the state.”

Garcia expressed confidence in the district’s future, citing its dedicated Board of Education and strong leadership team.

The Board of Education will begin the search for a new superintendent in the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition before the 2025-26 school year.