El Monte High School (EMHS) commenced a significant phase in enhancing its athletic facilities with a spirited groundbreaking ceremony on October 30, marking the beginning of construction for its new track and field venue. Students celebrated by running through the school’s well-known inflatable Lion tunnel, a display of enthusiasm and school spirit.

The upgrade, anticipated to complete by May 2025, is supported financially by the El Monte Union High School District’s Measure D and HS funds. It includes the construction of a synthetic track and field alongside a state-of-the-art scoreboard and other site improvements aimed at promoting comprehensive student development in both athletics and academics.

“This project symbolizes our District and community’s shared investment in our students’ futures and the strength of our El Monte family,” El Monte High Principal Eddie Cuevas said. “As we break ground today, we’re not just building a new facility—we’re renewing a foundation of pride, tradition, and excellence.”

El Monte High’s focus in redesigning its athletic grounds emerges from a broader objective to bolster healthy living, school spirit, and community engagement. The redesigned complex will facilitate physical fitness activities, athletic competitions, wellness education, performances, and social gatherings.

The ceremony attracted EMHS board members, district and school officials, local dignitaries, and community members, who were treated to performances by the school’s band, cheer team, and color guard. The event was also marked by the a cappella rendition of the national anthem by EMHS senior Alexander Gonzalez, and remarks by the Associated Student Body Vice President Hayden Nguyen, which emphasized the significance of the new facility for both the school and the community.

“Our new track and field will represent so much for El Monte—our home, our community, and our shared memories,” said Nguyen, a junior student-athlete. “While I’ll miss the old track, even with all its muddy days, I am deeply grateful to our Board, superintendent, District staff, and everyone who made this project possible. I’m excited for the opportunities and memories this new track will bring to future generations.”

In the broader scope of district-wide improvements, this project is a part of a $190 million modernization effort aimed at enhancing educational and extracurricular facilities across the district. This initiative reflects a commitment to student success and is funded through Measure HS and D bonds, approved by voters in October 2018.

El Monte High School, recognized as the first school within the district, has long been a symbol of tradition and community pride. The new track and field project not only aims to uphold but enhance these values, providing students with modern resources to pursue athletic excellence. The district’s leadership expressed collective enthusiasm about the project, noting its potential to invigorate the school’s legacy of pride and excellence through upgraded facilities.

“On behalf of our Board of Trustees, we’re thrilled to see this project come to life,” said Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga. “As the first school in our District, we understand the importance of renovation and providing our students with top-notch resources to support their athletic and personal growth. As a proud alumnus and former staff member, it’s exciting to witness our students’ enthusiasm as they embrace this new chapter for El Monte High School.”