About Us
Downes Elementary School
220 Casho Mill Road
Newark, DE 19711
Phone: (302) 454-2133
Fax: (302) 454-3483
Administration
- Principal: Dr. L'Tanya Cain
- Academic Dean: Nicole Wright
School Hours
- 8:00 am-3:00 pm
Dr. John R. Downes
Downes Elementary School opened on September 9, 1965, as the 15th school in the Newark Special School District, the Christina School District's predecessor.
#ChristinaStrong
Downes Elementary School is proud to be a part of the Christina School District, where we are committed to educating every student for excellence.
Welcome to Downes Elementary School!
John R. Downes Elementary School is a Kindergarten - Grade 5 school offering dual language immersion in Mandarin, emphasizing a warm, inclusive learning environment and strong community engagement.
John R. Downes Elementary School is dedicated to empowering, inspiring, and challenging every student to reach their fullest potential. Serving children from Kindergarten through Grade 5, our school proudly offers a dual language immersion program in Mandarin, fostering bilingualism and cultural appreciation from an early age.
We emphasize creating a warm, inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and supported. Our committed staff works closely with families and the wider community to build strong partnerships that enhance student learning and growth. At John R. Downes Elementary, we strive to nurture curious, confident, and compassionate learners prepared for success in a diverse world.
Empower. Inspire. Challenge.
Downes' Excellence
Downes Elementary School has earned prestigious awards, including the 2018-2020 National PTA School of Excellence and recognition as a Delaware Title I Distinguished School. These honors highlight the school's commitment to comprehensive student support, fostering positive behavior, and creating a safe, nurturing environment.
Who We Serve
Downes Elementary serves a diverse student and staff population and is proud to be part of the culturally-rich Newark, Delaware community. Our student base is made up of approximately:
- 39% White
- 25% African-American
- 20% Hispanic or Latino
- 10% Asian-American
- 6% Multi-Racial,
- <1% America Indian or Alaska Native
K-5 Dual Language Immersion Program
In a global society, learning other languages and cultures is essential for our future leaders. That’s why Downes Elementary School is pleased to offer the Chinese Immersion Program. Our Chinese Immersion Program curriculum model engages students in two different languages throughout their elementary school learning experience - English and Mandarin Chinese - and provides them with continued opportunities for intensive language learning through middle and high school.
