PALOMINO FAMILY and GGUSD Board of Education (Tribune photo).
By Amberly Nguyen
Orange County Tribune
Rosita Elementary School has been formally renamed to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School, recognizing their family’s contribution in the landmark Mendez et al. v. Westminster desegregation case.
The change was approved during a Garden Grove Unified School District Board of Education meeting Tuesday night on a 4-0 vote, with Trustee Bob Harden absent.
The school, which will commonly be referred to as Palomino Elementary School, honors Frank and Irene Palomino and their family’s role in advancing educational equality.
Frank and Irene Palomino were prominent local advocates recognized for standing against school segregation and played an integral part in the Garden Grove community’s history, which ultimately advanced equal educational opportunities across California.
The renaming serves not only as a tribute to the Palomino family but also as an educational opportunity for future students, staff and families to learn about local civil rights history. District officials worked closely with community members, staff and the Palomino family over several months to develop the proposal.
Trustee Walter Muneton thanked the family during the meeting and acknowledged their
contributions to the fight for educational equality.
“There’s an opportunity to teach future generations about the power of courage, community and standing up for what is right,” said Muneton. “I’m proud that we are taking this historic step tonight.”
Board members described the family’s actions as helping pave the way for generations of students and emphasized the importance of preserving their history. The district also plans to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the school’s new name.
Family members said they look forward to the ceremony and expressed gratitude and excitement about the the renaming,
Veronica Palomino said she felt “grateful, honored and proud for keeping our family history alive” following the board’s decision.
The rename will help ensure the Palomino family’s legacy continues to be shared throughout Orange County and more, she said.