The El Monte Union High School District recently bid farewell to two of its longstanding Board of Trustees members, Esthela Torres de Siegrist and Carlos Salcedo, who have been instrumental in shaping the educational landscape of the community for over a decade. The district held separate ceremonies to honor each board member’s contributions and dedication.

Esthela Torres de Siegrist, who concluded her 12-year tenure with the board, was celebrated in an event on December 11. Throughout her time on the board, Torres de Siegrist played a pivotal role in enhancing the educational programs and infrastructure of the district’s schools. Her efforts were particularly focused on improving student access to technology and broadening the curriculum to include more diverse perspectives, preparing students for a dynamic and interconnected world.

Carlos Salcedo, marking an impressive 21 years of service, was honored on December 18. Salcedo’s tenure is noted for his commitment to educational excellence and equity. He was a staunch advocate for expanding the district’s resources, ensuring that both students and teachers had the necessary tools for effective learning and teaching. Under his guidance, the district saw numerous upgrades in facilities and the introduction of innovative educational programs that have benefited generations of students.

Both board members were lauded for their leadership qualities and their unwavering commitment to the district’s mission of fostering a nurturing educational environment. Their efforts have not only enhanced the operational capabilities of the schools but have also deeply influenced the personal and academic lives of thousands of students. As they stepped down, they left behind a legacy of progress and community-focused governance.

The district, under the shadow of these significant departures, now faces the challenge and opportunity of bringing in new perspectives with the election of successors. The upcoming changes on the Board of Trustees come at a critical time as educational institutions everywhere are adapting to the evolving demands of 21st-century education.

The community and the district expressed deep gratitude to both Torres de Siegrist and Salcedo, acknowledging their dedication and hard work over the years. These leadership transitions mark both an end and a new beginning for the El Monte Union High School District as it continues to strive towards excellence in education for all its students.