El Monte Union High School District is updating its EMUHSD master plan to chart campus modernizations over the next five to 10 years. The plan evaluates facility conditions, sets upgrade priorities and aligns learning spaces with program needs. Voter-approved bonds and state grants will fund the work. Community input will shape decisions to reflect local needs and goals.
EMUHSD master plan focuses on safety
The district will assess all campuses for safety, accessibility and indoor air quality. Recent work under Measure HS included Rosemead High School gym HVAC installation and a synthetic turf field at El Monte High School. Arroyo High School saw kitchen and gym HVAC upgrades, and demolition of the old Rosemead Adult Education site cleared the way for a modern Adult Education Complex. Modernization at South El Monte and Mountain View high schools is underway or nearing completion. The Facilities and Maintenance Department manages these projects and posts updates online at emuhsd.org/home-11.
Bond history underpins the update
Over two decades, EMUHSD has secured more than $430 million through three bonds. Measure Y in 2002 provided $90 million for general renovations. Measure D in 2008 added $148 million for science labs, energy-efficient systems and technology upgrades. Measure HS in 2018 granted $192 million for safety systems, roof repairs, drinking water improvements and expanded STEM classrooms. Proposition 2 State Matching Grant funding will augment local investments and help stretch bond dollars further; eligibility for that program requires a current Facilities Master Plan.
Community engagement shapes decisions
District officials are gathering feedback through online surveys and public town halls in September and October. Students, staff, families and neighbors are invited to weigh in on priorities such as classroom design, athletic facilities and sustainable operations. Input will guide choices on transportation routes, nutrition-service upgrades and energy-management strategies. Meeting dates, times and links to surveys are available on the district website.
Aligning facilities with program needs
As learning models evolve, EMUHSD seeks flexible spaces that support career technical education, arts and athletics. Modern labs, media centers and collaborative areas will be prioritized. The plan also reviews technology infrastructure to ensure robust Wi-Fi, audiovisual systems and secure network access. Upgraded restrooms and drinking fountains will meet accessibility standards and promote health.
Optimizing campus operations and efficiency
Gathering baseline data on energy use, water consumption and transportation logistics will inform sustainability goals. The master plan will explore solar installations, LED lighting retrofits and EV charging stations. Nutrition services will be evaluated for kitchen efficiency and dining hall flow. Centralized maintenance workflows and work-order systems will help the district direct resources where they are needed most.
Next steps and funding timeline
With survey responses and town-hall feedback, the Facilities Master Plan update is expected to conclude by early next year. The board will review final recommendations and adopt a timeline for design, bidding and construction. State matching grants under Proposition 2 typically take 12 to 18 months to award after plan approval. District staff will then coordinate with architects and contractors to begin phased upgrades.
Local residents can stay informed by visiting the Facilities Master Plan page at https://www.emuhsd.org/home-11 and by attending one of the upcoming town halls. Public involvement is critical to delivering school facilities that support learning, safety and community pride.
