LA-25 Downey USD: California’s Public Sector Career Pathways

Pathways Improvement Scope

Downey Unified enhances previous pathways by launching a new Fire Science/EMT program at Warren High School and expanding Early Childhood and Teacher Pathways at Downey and Warren High Schools. The program introduces pre-apprenticeships, summer apprenticeships, and dual enrollment opportunities to address workforce shortages in public safety and education. Building on past successes, the project incorporates AI literacy to prepare students for emerging roles while impacting over 1,500 students and providing more than 100 apprenticeship opportunities.

Goals & Priorities

The California Public Sector Career Pathways project addresses critical workforce shortages in public safety and education, offering students clear pathways to sustainable, high-demand careers. At Warren High School, a Fire Science/EMT pathway will provide hands-on training, industry partnerships, and entry-level EMT certifications to meet the region’s growing needs. Simultaneously, Downey High and Warren High will expand their Early Childhood and Teacher Pathways, aligning with California’s “Grow Your Own” initiative to recruit and diversify the teaching workforce. Students will gain access to pre-apprenticeships, summer apprenticeships, and dual enrollment opportunities that build practical skills and early college credits. Integrating AI literacy across all CTE programs, the project expects to impact over 1,500 students and create more than 100 apprenticeship opportunities, preparing learners for impactful careers in public service.