Downey voters will have several important and complex decisions to make this Election Day. Luckily for voters living in northeast Downey, one such decision doesn’t require much contemplation: Giggy Perez-Saab is the best and obvious choice for re-election to the Downey Board of Education.

Since first being elected in 2018, Giggy has been an effective leader, prioritizing students’ success and school modernization while deftly managing the district’s resources. Her leadership has made a lasting impact on our schools.

In her tenure on the board, Giggy played a pivotal role in modernizing classrooms, ensuring that students had the tools they needed to succeed, especially during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She helped ensure that remote learning was accessible to all, regardless of a family’s technological resources. Giggy’s forward-thinking approach kept Downey Unified School District (DUSD) on the cutting edge, making it possible for students to continue their education seamlessly during a time of uncertainty.

Her support for facility modernization updates at all 22 district sites has ensured that students are learning in environments that are not only safe but also equipped to foster innovation. These improvements are essential in maintaining the high standards of education we expect for our children. Giggy’s dedication extends beyond just the physical structures; she has been a strong advocate for expanding student programs that prepare students for the future.

One of the district’s most impressive achievements under Giggy’s leadership has been maintaining a 96% graduation rate, the highest in the surrounding area. Additionally, Downey High School and Warren High School have been recognized as some of the nation’s top-performing schools, earning the distinction of “Best High Schools” by US News & World Report. Eleven schools within the district have been named Apple Distinguished Schools, a testament to the district’s successful integration of technology into the classroom. Doty Middle School’s designation as a national “School to Watch” further showcases the academic excellence Giggy has championed throughout DUSD.

Managing a $430 million budget while overseeing over 3,000 employees and caring for 22,000 students is no small feat, yet Giggy and her school board colleagues have done so with expertise, transparency, and a focus on student outcomes. Her dedication is personal—she is the only candidate with children currently enrolled in DUSD, giving her a unique perspective on the needs of both students and parents. Giggy’s decisions are informed by her real-world experience and her deep connection to the district, making her an invaluable advocate for our community.

Her opponent, Juan Martinez, is a professional bully and agitator who gained notoriety for protesting outside the homes of Downey council members. He’s unfit to serve on an HOA board let alone the board of education.

As Downey continues to grow and evolve, we need leaders like Giggy Perez-Saab who have the vision and the experience to ensure our schools remain a source of pride and success. Her leadership over the past five years has proven that she is a smart, capable, and caring advocate for Downey students. Let’s keep our schools on the path to excellence by re-electing Giggy Perez-Saab to the Downey Board of Education.

Giggy has earned our vote, and the future of our children’s education will be brighter with her continued leadership. With zero hesitancy, The Downey Patriot recommends she be re-elected.