Along the way, he helped earn grants in the millions of dollars, establish new and innovative CTE pathways and worked to use essential standards to ensure students can demonstrate proficiency in subject requirements by the end of their current grade.

In his role overseeing the technology department since 2011, Brossmer has led this team in development and implementation of a districtwide technology integration plan that enabled Downey to apply for and receive five Apple Distinguished Schools recognitions. In 2020 he helped create a smooth transition to distance learning with Canvas Learning Management System, empowering teachers to lead and learn through the use of technology best practices and ongoing training. He was instrumental in implementing specialized schedules in secondary schools by working with site and union leaders, adding an additional period to the school day to allow students to receive interventions during the social-emotional and academic challenges of the pandemic.

In addition to his dedicated work in the district, Brossmer served as mayor of Downey from 2008 to 2016 and on the planning commission for the city from 2001 to 2008, working not only to foster stronger relationships between the city and schools, but to help develop collaborative responses to the needs and issues within the greater community.

“Dr. Brossmer’s leadership has been invaluable to our school district and our community,” Connie Quintero a principal in Downey USD, wrote. “He is a visionary leader who leads with his heart, always making what is best for students the priority. We know we can count on Dr. Brossmer when we need his assistance and support in the most challenging and unprecedented situations. We are blessed to have a leader of his caliber.”

What’s your favorite quote on leadership? “There is no limit to what can be accomplished if it doesn’t matter who gets the credit.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” — Mark Twain and many of my mentors. Authentic relationships are the key to success in our line of work.

What’s your best strategy for work/life balance? Simply stated, I strive to live in the moment to experience success related to both work and my personal life. Sorry, no words of wisdom here; still working on it. What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? Make sure they do not underestimate the importance of taking care of themselves physically and mentally. This balance will help new administrators ensure they can be present to support their staff, students, and families at work.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? I am the former mayor of Downey, Calif.

What made you want to become a school administrator? Very supportive and humble administrators showed what can be accomplished for kids if you have the right leaders.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are? I am very blessed; my challenges are normally self-imposed and have been brief because I have worked hard to overcome them.

What are you most proud of accomplishing? Working with my superintendent and school board to increase our high school graduation requirements incrementally to match the UC A-G requirements. This increase in rigor for all students informed and sparked our organization to tackle identified gaps in how we serve students.

How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position? I have felt supported by ACSA through the variety of professional development opportunities they have offered. Specifically, I have grown as a professional by participating in many different academies. In addition, I have always trusted ACSA to keep me apprised of important educational and legislative initiatives in real-time.

What new strategies are you using to ensure student success in the post-“return to school” period? The creation of Wellness Centers at all of our secondary schools and the infusion of clinical therapists at all of our school sites will undoubtedly provide students with accessible site-based support they need to feel supported and thrive.