Spring time testing
Written by Jessica Xilo · May 11, 2012
As the end of the year approaches, underclassmen must prepare for the spring California Standards Tests, which are reported to the state to measure academic achievement. Every year, the STAR Program evaluates progress in math, reading, writing, science, and history. The performance levels are... (more...)
Sealing the deal
Written by Jessica Xilo · April 27, 2012
As the May 1 deadline approaches, seniors are reviewing their college acceptances and making their final decision about what school they plan to attend during the fall. After months of waiting for the letters in the mail, a final stress is still pending – commitment. Some students... (more...)
Spice and everything nice
Written by Jessica Xilo · April 6, 2012
With an exciting plant variety, the Botany class is holding its 3rd Annual Pepper and Tomato Plant Sale on March 24, 31 and April 7 in front of the pool on Brookshire Avenue to raise money for classroom necessities. Greg Pittenger’s class is selling over 40 varieties of plants and each plant... (more...)
Gymnastics: A trial of endurance
Written by Jessica Xilo · March 21, 2012
A determined athlete and caring teammate, Carlie Norczyk is a gymnast at the American Gymnastics Academy and has competed in both several states and countries throughout her athletic career. At the age of three, the sophomore’s mother introduced her to the sport after realizing that she could... (more...)
Reaching for the sky
Written by Jessica Xilo · February 29, 2012
As part of the Lance Corporal Kenneth L. Worley Young Marines in Norwalk, California, Beth Abzun earned the title as Division Six Marine of the Year for 2012 as a result of her leadership and determination. As a freshman, she has already demonstrated her ability to stand out even among six-year... (more...)
A night in New York
Written by Jessica Xilo · February 10, 2012
Chosen from the best high school musicians in the United States and Canada, Rebekah Jin will participate in the American High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall, on Feb. 12, in New York City. Senior Jin will represent Downey in the east coast on a night filled with music and... (more...)
Money in the community
Written by Jessica Xilo · January 20, 2012
As a new year begins, seniors face the responsibility of searching for local scholarships within the community to help with college expenses. The Local Scholarship, available on www.downey.dusd.net, is an important resource for many students. Applying through the online application gives the... (more...)
PTA: December 2011
Written by Jessica Xilo · December 14, 2011
As the year nears to an end, parents and staff members assembled in the theatre on Dec. 12 to discuss recent news about the school and the students. Principal Tom Houts began the meeting by announcing the recent figure skating competition in which junior Vanessa Lam placed fifth in the world.... (more...)
Financing education
Written by Jessica Xilo · November 21, 2011
As college application deadlines approach, Tina Campos, Diana Porras, and Rio Hondo Representatives came together in the B-building Theatre for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Night on Nov. 17 to provide information about financial aid. Students and parents attended... (more...)
In it to lose it
Written by Jessica Xilo · November 4, 2011
In attempts to lose excess vacation weight, Mr. Manzanares and other staff members are participating in the Biggest Loser Competition during the fall semester to meet their health goals. Summer is a time to relax from work, school and everyday stress, but unfortunately, most people also... (more...)
Future focus of the farm
Written by Jessica Xilo · October 12, 2011
After a relaxing summer, a promising school year began with Mr. Houts’ and other staff members’ plans to make additions to the school farm. Since last year, several changes and improvements were made. Over the summer, Mr. Houts installed an irrigation system which now provides water... (more...)