El Monte High School stands as one of the San Gabriel Valley’s oldest public high schools, with roots that stretch back to the earliest years of the city itself. Founded in 1901, the campus has grown from a single borrowed classroom into a landmark institution that reflects El Monte’s civic, cultural, and educational development.
Located in the heart of El Monte, El Monte High School has educated generations of local families while adapting to changing times, student needs, and community priorities.
Early Beginnings Shaped El Monte High School
The school’s story began with the formation of the El Monte Union High School District in 1901. That year, the school opened with just 12 to 15 students meeting in an upstairs room at the old Lexington Avenue Grammar School.
As El Monte continued to grow, so did demand for secondary education. By 1908, enrollment reached 65 students, prompting the move to the school’s first dedicated campus. That milestone marked El Monte High School’s transition from a small local program into a permanent community institution.
The Lion Identity Rooted In Local History
El Monte High is known as the “Home of the Lions,” a nickname tied to one of the city’s most distinctive historic attractions. In the early 20th century, El Monte was home to Gay’s Lion Farm, a popular tourist site that featured African lions and drew visitors from across Southern California.
The school adopted the lion as its mascot, and the imagery remains prominent on campus today. Murals, statues, and athletic branding continue to honor the connection, linking student identity with a unique chapter of local history.
Campus Growth And Modern Development
Over the decades, El Monte High School expanded alongside the surrounding community. The campus now serves roughly 1,400 to 2,000 students and offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. Advanced Placement courses, visual and performing arts, clubs, and athletics play central roles in campus life.
One of the school’s most notable facilities is the El Monte High School Auditorium, a historic performing arts venue that seats approximately 1,050 people. The auditorium has long hosted student productions, assemblies, and community events.
During the Cold War, the campus also held an unexpected role in national defense. In the 1950s, school grounds included a Nike missile launch site that formed part of the Los Angeles air defense system. The underground structures remain hidden from public view, with nearby land later transitioning to military reserve use.
A Lasting Symbol Of Community Pride
Today, El Monte High School remains a cornerstone of the El Monte Union High School District and a symbol of local pride. Its long history mirrors the growth of the city itself, blending tradition with ongoing change. For students, alumni, and residents, the campus represents more than a school, serving as a shared link across generations.
