Downey High School is buzzing with the aroma of coffee and student success within a CTE Class on campus.
Our campus is home to a thriving student-run business called Viking Brew, designed to give students real-world experience and valuable job skills that will serve them beyond high school.

 The Origin Story

Launched in 2021, Viking Brew was created in response to the pandemic, when access to community job sites was limited and DUSD placed restrictions on where  Mrs. Storey and her CTE Retail Marketing students could be placed. Plans went into action and came up with a solution: bring the job site to campus.

Together, students brainstormed and developed ideas of opening an on-campus business but what would help the community of Downey High. And work within the guidelines of the school. Coffee shop. They handled every step—creating supply lists, choosing a location, designing a menu, and managing the logistics of starting a business.

Community Support Makes It Happen

Thanks to generous grants from the Stauffer Foundation and the Linda Kennedy Foundation, Viking Brew was able to purchase the equipment and supplies needed to get off the ground.

After weeks of preparation, the students hosted a soft opening for DHS staff, which was a huge success and a major confidence boost for the team.

 Early Mornings, Real Experience

Students now work two days a week, arriving on campus as early as 6:45 a.m. to prep the shop, make drinks, and deliver orders to staff around the school.

Junior Jared Rivera, a Viking Brew employee, shares:

“Waking up early can be tough, but it’s worth it. It’s helped me learn job skills like taking orders, delivering them, and handling money—skills I can use when applying for a summer job.”

Growth & Opportunity

Two years later, Viking Brew found a permanent home in the D Building teachers’ lounge, which has been transformed into a fully functioning coffee shop.

The team now includes two student managers and ten employees who rotate through roles such as cashier, barista, pastries, delivery, and manager. This gives students hands-on experience in all aspects of running a business.

Managers help train new employees, coordinate operations, and work closely with Mrs. Storey to set goals and plan for weekly tasks or special events.

 A Source of Pride

Viking Brew has become more than just a coffee shop—it’s a symbol of what Downey High students can achieve with creativity, hard work, and support.

The shop’s success has sparked inspiration across the district, encouraging other CTE and student-led programs to take similar steps.

Mrs. Storey reflects on the journey:

“Seeing the growth in confidence, communication, and professionalism in each student is why I do this. It’s not just about coffee—it’s about preparing them for life after high school.”

Want to support Viking Brew?
Stop by the D Building lounge during their operating hours and see firsthand what Downey High students are brewing up! ☕