EL MONTE – El Monte Union High School District welcomed more than 7,000 students back to campuses for the first day of school on Aug. 17, where they were greeted by peers, cheer teams, marching bands, campus leaders, mascots and school staff who helped create an inviting atmosphere and excite students for the 2023-24 school year.

El Monte Union campuses Districtwide were bedecked in colorful balloons and posters and they each held their own special celebration as new and returning students connected over summer happenings and compared schedules with one another.

Link Crew Leaders at Mountain View and Rosemead high schools introduced incoming freshmen to their new campuses with exciting orientations on Aug. 11 and Aug. 16, respectively, during which first-year students learned about available classes and clubs and engaged in icebreakers and activities. At Fernando R. Ledesma High School, students prepared for the new school year by meeting with counselors to discuss and finalize their class schedules during a registration event on Aug. 17.

El Monte High School kicked off its first day with the marching band, cheer team and color guard performing as their peers walked onto campus. At Arroyo High School, Associated Student Body (ASB) members, cheer team and school staff lined up at the brightly decorated front entrance to welcome students back. Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga gave students a fist bump and a high five while sharing encouraging words to inspire them for the year ahead.

“We stand at the threshold of a new academic journey, filled with excitement and promise, as we eagerly welcome our incredible students back to our campuses,” Zuniga said. “As a District, we are ready to support and inspire every student’s journey, and together we will make this academic year one of growth, achievement, vibrant school spirit and unforgettable experiences.”

South El Monte High School (SEMHS) students were welcomed to campus with navy blue and gold balloons and streamers alongside spirited greetings from the Mighty Eagle mascot, ASB leaders also assisted new students in finding their classrooms.

“This year, I am really looking forward to joining more sports and academic clubs while also actively trying to motivate our newest set of incoming ‘Eagles’ to get involved,” SEMHS sophomore Annett Cervantes said. “To encourage freshmen, for example, I will talk to them and help them out so that they feel more confident navigating around campus. The first day of school can be a little nerve-wracking, but it can also be just as exciting.”

This school year the District has joined ParentSquare, allowing the community to receive important messaging from their schools in an easy and effective manner, and is also encouraging students and families to embrace the outdoors by providing track access at El Monte, South El Monte and Rosemead high schools.

Additionally, El Monte Union is continuing its efforts in ensuring all students have the resources needed to succeed in school by partnering with Rype Dist. LLC and Sarver Wireless to bring the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to the District. The ACP provides eligible households with access to discounted or free high-speed internet to help ensure that families can afford the broadband they need for school, work, healthcare and more. Interested families can visit www.rypeacp.com for more information and bit.ly/SarverWireless to enroll today.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

EMUHSD_FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL_1: Arroyo High School students are all smiles as they make their way to the front entrance for the first day of school on Aug. 17.

EMUHSD_FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL_2: Arroyo High School’s cheer team ignites school pride as they gather to welcome students to campus for the first day of school on Aug. 17.

EMUHSD_FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL_3: South El Monte High School students connect over summer happenings on the first day of school on Aug. 17.

EMUHSD_FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL_4: South El Monte High School’s Mighty Eagles Marching Band welcome students back onto campus with an exciting performance for the first day of school on Aug. 17.