“Once a Monarch, always a Monarch” echoes through these halls. Monte Vista High School opened its doors in 1961. It became the seventh high school in the Grossmont Union High School District.
Now, standing here, you are about fifteen miles east of downtown San Diego. You are in Spring Valley, California. Monte Vista serves students in grades nine through twelve. This public, comprehensive school has a rich history. It has a strong connection to the Spring Valley community.
Monte Vista High School has earned recognition over the years. Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report ranked it among the top schools in the nation. This was due to its AP testing record and rising Annual Performance Index scores. In 2015, the State of California recognized Monte Vista as a Gold Ribbon School. It was one of only 22 schools in San Diego County to receive this honor.
Let me share some impressive achievements. Monte Vista saw the highest API score in its history at 786. The school also had the highest Similar Schools Ranking in the district. It ranked 9 out of 10. Impressively, over 40% of graduating seniors take at least one AP class. Monte Vista also boasts multiple Gates Millennium Scholarship winners.
The school provides unique learning experiences. Monte Vista is one of three schools in the district with a “Linked Learning Pathway”. These pathways include Automotive Technology and Video Game Design and Programming.
You might be interested to know that 95% of the classrooms on campus have been modernized recently. The school also features new science labs, a library, a weight room, and guidance offices.
Monte Vista’s mission is clear. It aims to provide a relevant and rigorous education. This education is grounded in compassion and equity. The school embraces the Crimson and Gold code. It promotes respect for oneself and the community.
Monte Vista offers a robust Advanced Placement program. A large percentage of graduating seniors have taken an AP exam. The school also offers Dual Enrollment college courses. Students can earn both college and high school credits. There are also programs in Visual and Performing Arts, Automotive Technology, and CTE Game Design and Development.
Monte Vista also excels in athletics. It has a storied history of winning league and CIF titles. The school currently fields 25 CIF-sanctioned varsity sports. Beyond sports, Monte Vista fosters a culture of service and leadership.
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is an important event here. It honors alumni who have made significant contributions. The Hall of Fame recognizes achievements in athletics and beyond. It emphasizes the school’s desire to acknowledge individuals from all fields.
Remember Mike Applegate? He was the California State Wrestling Champion of 1975. He credits his wrestling coach Bill Clauder for changing his life. Clauder led the Monarchs to many league championships and CIF titles. Meg Pugsley Jacobsen, a Monte Vista graduate, is now principal at Spring Valley Middle School. She is proud of her school and community.
Monte Vista High School stands as a beacon of education and community spirit. Its traditions, achievements, and culture create a family atmosphere. As you leave, remember the words “Once a Monarch, always a Monarch.” They encapsulate the lasting impact of this school.