EL MONTE – With the roar of student-athletes and the rhythm of the marching band, cheer, and color guard, El Monte High School (EMHS) marked the grand opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art athletics facility with a spirited ribbon-cutting celebration on June 2.

The long-awaited facility, now complete with a synthetic track and field, modern scoreboard, and upgraded amenities, stands as a symbol of El Monte Union High School District’s (EMUHSD) commitment to athletic excellence, student wellness, and community engagement. Funded by voter-approved Measure D and Measure HS bonds, the project is part of the District’s larger $190 million modernization initiative.

“This facility is more than just turf and track – it’s a launchpad for our students to grow as athletes, leaders, teammates, and individuals. It’s also a tribute to the progress, pride, and most importantly the power of community that runs deep in the heart of El Monte High,” EMHS Principal Eddie Cuevas said. “A place where dedication meets opportunity and the roar of lion pride will echo for years to come. This field will hold victories, challenges, and triumphs, the cornerstone of the Lion Country experience.”

Guests were welcomed by the school’s marching band, cheer team, color guard and event emcee John P. Kovac, who serves as the “voice of the Lions” as the public-address announcer for EMHS athletics, setting the stage for a lively atmosphere. Associated Student Body (ASB) president Destynee Nora, a senior, led the flag salute, while senior Alexander Gonzalez delivered a stirring a cappella performance of the national anthem.

During the program, EMHS football, soccer, and track and field student-athletes helped break in the new facility as they scored the first touchdowns, goals, and ran the inaugural 400-meter relay in the complex’s history – drawing cheers from the crowd and offering a glimpse of the many athletic milestones still to come.

EMHS student-athlete and ASB vice president Hayden Nguyen reflected on the historic moment and the transformation of the field.

“As a track athlete myself, I’ve had wins with humility and losses with grace. This field has shown me how much I’ve grown and persevered,” Nguyen said. “What an amazing day to celebrate this new chapter. We are so excited to witness history today with our very firsts on this field.”

The celebration concluded with local dignitaries presenting certificates to those who helped bring the project to life, followed by a ribbon-cutting. Guests then gathered for a community taco dinner, capping off an afternoon filled with pride, purpose, and possibility.

EMUHSD Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, an El Monte High alumnus, former football player, and staff member, expressed pride in the school’s continued evolution and the opportunities this facility will provide.

“El Monte High holds a special place in my heart. As a student, athlete, and former staff member, I’ve witnessed how far this field has come,” Zuniga said. “What was once a well-worn space is now a premier facility that reflects our commitment to student growth in body, mind, and spirit by creating spaces that inspire excellence. With graduation around the corner, it’s especially meaningful to celebrate this milestone alongside our Class of 2025. I’m grateful to our District team, project partners, and community members for bringing this vision to life in time for today’s celebration.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

EMUHSD_EMHS ATHLETICS FACILITY_1: El Monte High School administrators, student-athletes, performing arts students and El Monte Union Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga (right) celebrate the grand opening of the school’s new state-of-the-art athletics facility during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 2.

EMUHSD_EMHS ATHLETICS FACILITY_2: El Monte High School’s cheer team, marching band, and color guard welcome attendees with a performance during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the school’s new state-of-the-art athletics facility on June 2.

EMUHSD_EMHS ATHLETICS FACILITY_3: El Monte High School soccer athletes score the first goals on the new field as part of the school’s ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 2.