DOWNEY — Dr. John Garcia, superintendent of Downey Unified School District, started every day last week by reminding groups at the three DUSD high schools of the vision of Downey Unified: “It is our vision statement that all students graduate with a 21st century education that ensures they are college and career ready, globally competitive and citizens of strong character.”

They lived up to that vision last week by providing an opportunity for their students to explore careers available to them by serving in our military, and by thanking their veteran employees and teachers.

Each day last week, Downey High School, Columbus High School and Warren High School started the day with a small gathering of school board members, city officials, teachers, counselors, students and community representatives. They came to honor the district’s many veterans and recognize them on behalf of a grateful community. It was all part of Downey Military Career Week hosted by DUSD and the United States Army.

Every district employee or teacher that is a veteran was given a customized shirt with their name and the branch they served in. They were also given a pin signifying their veteran status along with the gratitude by everyone in attendance. They are an example to our students of service and future career opportunities.

DUSD students were also able to tour the Army STEM trailer brought to Downey from Fort Knox. It was a chance for our students to see the possibilities of the 150 career jobs available to them in the Army (over 95% translate to civilian occupations) .

Students and counselors were able to discuss careers and scholarships available to our youth. The United States Army is the largest giver of scholarships in the country and also the second-largest employer.

DUSD President Donald LaPlante also commented how careers in the military are one of the options for all our students that could provide opportunities and technical training for their futures.

Former Downey mayor and current Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, Mario A. Guerra, thanked and complimented DUSD.

“We are thankful for their vision and giving their students the opportunity to learn about future and potential careers,” said Guerra. “While the military is not for everyone, (only three out of 10 graduating seniors countrywide are eligible for Army), every young adult should have the opportunity to explore all careers available to them.

“DUSD has done an amazing job of allowing our students to explore what they may see as opportunities, explore college scholarships and career technical education. We are grateful to them and our youth benefit from their vision”.

Calvary Chapel High School and St. Pius Matthias Academy were also in attendance, along with representatives of the Air Force and Marines.

Downey Unified, U.S. Army partner for Military Career Week