The Student Advisory Council honored graduating seniors and selected new leaders during its final meeting of the 2025-26 school year on May 18. The Student Advisory Council recognized student leaders for their service to the El Monte Union High School District and celebrated a new generation of representatives who will serve during the coming school year.
The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, known as SAC, serves as a student voice on district issues and provides direct feedback to district leadership. During the meeting, graduating seniors received custom stoles and cords recognizing their leadership, participation and commitment to the El Monte Union community.
District officials also presented certificates to underclassmen for their contributions throughout the year. The recognition highlighted the council’s role in connecting students with district leaders and encouraging civic engagement across El Monte Union campuses.
Student Advisory Council Leadership Transition
Members elected South El Monte High School rising senior Tessa Ocegueda as the 2026-27 senior Student Board Member and SAC president. Rising junior Mia Arteaga was appointed junior Student Board Member and vice president.
Both students will represent their peers and work closely with district leadership during the next school year. Student board members serve as a bridge between students and the Board of Trustees, helping bring student perspectives to discussions that affect campuses throughout the district.
Council members also recognized outgoing Student Board Member Ashley Yu for her service and leadership. During her tenure, Yu represented student interests and participated in discussions on issues impacting El Monte Union students.
The leadership transition marks an important milestone for the council as it prepares for another year of student advocacy and engagement.
Celebrating Community Partnerships
The event also highlighted a longstanding community partnership. The meeting was catered by El Sombrero, a restaurant that has served the El Monte area for decades and remains a familiar gathering place for local residents.
The restaurant’s participation reflected the strong connections between local businesses and area schools. Community partnerships often play an important role in supporting student programs and district events throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
As the school year comes to a close, district leaders praised SAC members for their commitment to representing student voices and contributing to campus life. The council’s work throughout the year has helped strengthen communication between students and administrators while encouraging leadership development among participants.
With new officers selected and graduating seniors recognized, the Student Advisory Council enters the 2026-27 school year with a renewed focus on student engagement and service to the El Monte Union community.
