Rosemead High School’s Parent Center hosted a mini Career Expo on December 8, welcoming students, families, and local law enforcement for an afternoon focused on education, career exploration, and cultural connection. The event brought together the El Monte Police Department, including members of its SWAT team, for a hands-on showcase of public safety careers.
Students engage with law enforcement professionals
The El Monte Police Department provided an interactive experience for students by displaying specialized gear and vehicles used in daily operations and emergency response. Officers from the department, including SWAT personnel, demonstrated equipment and discussed the wide range of responsibilities within law enforcement roles.
The presence of the SWAT team offered students a unique look at the advanced tools and training involved in tactical response. Attendees had the opportunity to examine the gear up close and ask questions about job pathways, physical and academic requirements, and the types of challenges officers face on the job.
The event was designed to help students connect classroom learning to real-world professions, particularly in public safety, criminal justice, and emergency services. Many students showed interest in the career possibilities presented during the expo.
Cultural hospitality enriches the event
Adding a vibrant community touch, parents served homemade arroz con leche, offering regional variations of the dish from across Mexico. Flavors representing Guanajuato, Mexico City, Colima, and Oaxaca were among those shared. This cultural element added warmth and hospitality to the event, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere that celebrated diversity.
The sharing of traditional foods created a space for cross-generational exchange and community building, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity in the school experience. The event’s setting combined education with tradition, creating a meaningful and memorable environment for students and their families.
Parent Center promotes engagement and access
The mini Career Expo is part of Rosemead High School’s ongoing effort to support student success through family engagement and exposure to career pathways. The Parent Center plays a key role in organizing events that promote participation and access to educational resources.
By bringing together law enforcement professionals, parents, and students in a shared space, the event aligned with the school’s broader mission to prepare students for life beyond high school. Events like these offer valuable insight into careers that might otherwise feel out of reach, especially for first-generation students.
Rosemead High School continues to develop programming that connects families, professionals, and educators in support of student growth. Details about upcoming events and programs are available on the school’s website at https://www.emuhsd.org/rosemead.

