EL MONTE – Current Rosemead High School students and alumni, dating back to the 1950s, commemorated the school’s legacy and impact with student performances and carnival-inspired food and games during a 75th-anniversary Panther Palooza celebration on Oct. 10.

El Monte Union High School District (EMUHSD) leaders, Board of Trustee members, staff, students, and the community embraced the festive atmosphere, which was orchestrated by the RHS Associated Student Body (ASB) and Class of 2025 before Rosemead’s football game against Mountain View High.

“I’m delighted to be back at Rosemead High School, a place that is near and dear to my heart,” said Sergio Caeyo, who taught math at RHS from 1992 to 2002. “I’ve taught at many schools throughout my career, but I truly cherish my time here and still keep in touch with former students and colleagues.”

Founded in 1949, Rosemead High has earned numerous accolades, including being named a 2024 Best High School by U.S. News & World Report and receiving the 2023 San Gabriel Valley Tribune’s Readers’ Choice Award.

Panther Palooza guests were treated to cotton candy, popcorn, ring toss, basketball games, a photo booth, and a live DJ. The event also featured a “Flashback to ‘49” section dedicated to alumni that showcased yearbooks, photo timelines, and poster signings.

“I attended my class’ 60th reunion last year and was happy to be invited back to celebrate the school,” Marcia White, Class of ‘63 graduate said. “I love seeing the photo timelines and learning about what the current student clubs offer.”

Student clubs and sports teams provided refreshments, ranging from Hot Cheeto nachos to green tea boba. Hot Dog on a Stick also made a special appearance at Panther Palooza, which featured performances by the RHS band, choir, cheer, and dance teams.

“This was a highly collaborative effort, with many clubs participating. Everyone put in a lot of work to plan and set up,” Senior ASB President Alice Sar said. “I love my ASB team because they put in so much effort and worked so hard. I also want to thank the school administrators and maintenance staff for their support. The final result is amazing – everything looks great and everyone is so engaged.”

Panther Palooza celebrated before the kickoff of RHS’ final home football game of the regular season with a senior night and tailgate that included airbrushed face and body painting, a magician, a balloon artist, and giant Jenga and Connect 4 games.

“On behalf of our Board, I want to thank the Rosemead High School alumni and District community for coming out to celebrate 75 years of learning and growth,” EMUHSD Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “Rosemead High’s administrators, staff, ASB, and Class of ‘25 students did an exceptional job organizing the Panther Palooza for all to enjoy.”

Click here to watch a recap of the Panther Palooza Celebration.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

EMUHSD_RHS 75 ANNIVERSARY_1: Rosemead High School alumni gather on campus to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary during Panther Palooza on Oct. 10. The event also included a “Flashback to ‘49” section dedicated to alumni that showcased yearbooks, photo timelines, and poster signings.

EMUHSD_RHS 75 ANNIVERSARY_2: Rosemead High School’s choir delivers a captivating performance for community members during the school’s 75th-anniversary celebration at Panther Palooza on Oct. 10.

EMUHSD_RHS 75 ANNIVERSARY_3: El Monte Union students, staff, families, and community members enjoy a lively basketball game amid the carnival atmosphere during Rosemead High School’s 75th anniversary Panther Palooza celebration on Oct. 10.

EMUHSD_RHS 75 ANNIVERSARY_4: Rosemead High School seniors enjoyed a carnival-like atmosphere at Panther Palooza, including airbrushed face and body painting, a magician, a balloon artist, and giant games of Jenga and Connect 4, during the school’s 75th anniversary celebration and senior tailgate on Oct. 10.