Stauffer Middle School’s Alyda Mir named Principal of the Year

Dr. Mary Stauffer and Alyda Mir. Photo courtesy DUSD

DOWNEY – The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) has selected Stauffer Middle School’s Principal, Alyda Mir, as the Region 14 Middle Grades Principal of the Year. 

Mir, who has worked at the Downey Unified School District for 20 years, was selected for this award for her “exceptional leadership in managing school programs, commitment to educational quality and student achievement, commitment to professional growth, and creativity and innovation in dealing with issues and problems facing public education.”

“Principal Mir is extremely adept at creating a positive, dedicated, educational environment that includes and represents all members of the Stauffer Middle School community,” said Roger Brossmer, Downey Unified’s assistant superintendent of secondary education. “Her work ethic is unparalleled and she is guided by a strong moral compass which sets a high standard for her staff and students alike. She guides her judgment and decision making by what is best for students and the educational program.”

Stauffer Middle School held a surprise celebration for Mir on Feb. 14 to honor her for receiving the award. Downey Unified administration, school personnel from across the district, her family, the entire Stauffer Middle School staff and even the school’s namesake, Dr. Mary Stauffer, were present that afternoon to join in on the celebration.

“It’s a true honor to have been selected for this award,” said Mir. “This has been such a wonderful year for our school starting with Dr. Stauffer’s 100th birthday, having one of our teachers selected as the Teacher of the Year, being selected for the Schools to Watch program and now this… I hope we are making you proud Dr. Stauffer.”

Dr. Stauffer echoed the same sentiment, stating, “What Alyda has done for the school has made me extremely proud. She is making the school outstanding and I am proud to have my name associated with it.”