EL MONTE – The El Monte Union High School District’s (EMUHSD) Class of 2026 celebrated commencement season during ceremonies held May 27 and June 4, showcasing academic achievement, cultural pride, and the communities that supported students throughout their educational journeys.

The Class of 2026 is set to attend prestigious institutions including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Northwestern University, Claremont McKenna College, Princeton University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, USC, UCLA, UC San Diego, and UC Irvine. Others plan to go to community colleges, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce.

“The Class of 2026 leaves our campuses with more than a diploma; they leave with stories of perseverance, lifelong friendships, and a deep connection to their communities,” EMUHSD Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “Congratulations to all our graduates. We look forward to seeing how they carry their talents and purpose into the future.”

Commencement season began on May 27 with the El Monte-Rosemead Adult School graduation ceremony held at Rosemead High School’s newly renamed Vikki Carr Performing Arts Center, where graduates celebrated with decorated caps, scholarship announcements, and inspiring speeches. On June 4, the Granada Adult Transition Program honored 22 graduates during a Hawaiian-themed ceremony that celebrated students’ growth, with many moving on to work in their communities.

Later that day, Fernando R. Ledesma, Arroyo, Rosemead, South El Monte, Mountain View, and El Monte high schools honored their graduating classes with ceremonies showcasing student successes and school traditions. Rosemead High celebrated 25 valedictorians, while South El Monte High carried on its annual cultural flag presentation, a tradition that celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its students.

Graduates also marked the occasion with decorated caps, custom stoles, and honor cords reflecting their academic and athletic achievements, cultural heritage, and personal journeys. Student speakers reflected on the experiences that shaped their high school years, while band and choir ensembles delivered final performances before fireworks displays brought the celebrations to a close.

“First, I want to thank God and my mom and dad for being the best parents I could’ve ever asked for,” South El Monte High valedictorian Julius Flores said. “I’ve learned that the most meaningful relationships are built through shared experiences and taking the time to genuinely understand people beyond first impressions. Everything I’ve gone through has taught me something valuable and to better know myself. Our high school journeys have helped shape us into stronger, more prepared individuals.”

The ceremonies also underscored the strong family connections that define the El Monte Union community. At Mountain View High alone, approximately six sets of siblings graduated together, while administrators at both Mountain View and Arroyo high schools celebrated the milestone of seeing their own children receive diplomas.

“Our story as the Class of 2026 is one of resilience,” Mountain View High Associated Student Body fall president Heidi Scanlan said. “Throughout our years, our Viking family faced challenges with strength, unity, and compassion. We learned that success is measured not only by what we achieve, but by how we show up for one another. Together, we are stronger, and those lessons will stay with us long after graduation.”

To view each El Monte Union comprehensive high school’s graduation ceremony, visit the District’s website.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

EMUHSD_ GRADUATION_1: An Arroyo High School graduate celebrates after receiving her diploma during the school’s commencement ceremony on June 4.

EMUHSD_GRADUATION_2: South El Monte High School graduates wearing medals, cords, and stoles prepare to enter the June 4 commencement ceremony.

EMUHSD_GRADUATION_3: A Fernando R. Ledesma High School graduate walks the red carpet before the school’s June 4 commencement ceremony, waving to family members while wearing a custom stole celebrating his cultural heritage.

EMUHSD_GRADUATION_4: A Rosemead High School graduate cheers as she makes her way across the school’s stadium before the June 4 commencement ceremony.

EMUHSD_GRADUATION_5: A Mountain View High School graduate raises her diploma as she crosses the stage during the school’s commencement ceremony on June 4.

EMUHSD_GRADUATION_6: An El Monte High School graduate celebrates beneath a fireworks display following the June 4 commencement ceremony while wearing a custom graduation gown featuring the Honduras flag.