California Attorney General Announces Settlement with El Monte Union High School District

California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, revealed on Friday that his office has reached a significant settlement with the El Monte Union High School District. This resolution comes after a prolonged period characterized by what Bonta described as a mishandling of numerous sexual harassment, assault, and abuse complaints filed by students.

Background of the Investigation

The impetus for the settlement traces back to an extensive investigation conducted by Business Insider in 2023, which uncovered serious allegations of misconduct at Rosemead High School, part of the El Monte district. Following these discoveries, the state initiated an investigation encompassing conduct from 2018 through fall 2025. This thorough inquiry reviewed over 88,000 documents and nearly 200,000 emails, alongside interviews with 26 administrators, staff, former students, and various witnesses.

Terms of the Settlement

In a press conference held in Los Angeles County, Bonta emphasized that the settlement necessitates the implementation of a comprehensive four-year corrective plan. Through this plan, both the California Department of Justice and the El Monte Union High School District commit to ensuring compliance with state and federal laws related to sexual misconduct in educational settings.

Key Provisions

Under the terms of the settlement:

• The school district must appoint a compliance coordinator approved by the state Department of Justice.
• A centralized electronic complaint system will be established to streamline reporting misconduct.
• Enhanced access to education and mental health services will be assured for those reporting issues.
• A maintained list of substitute teachers barred from rehire following sexual harassment findings is mandated.

Bonta expressed hope that the district would act swiftly to adopt the necessary reforms, pledging that his office would monitor compliance closely. He stated, “Every child deserves to learn and grow in a safe and supportive school environment. Today’s settlement marks a beginning, not an end.”

Commitment to Safety and Transparency

Superintendent Edward Zuniga of the El Monte Union High School District reiterated the district’s commitment to student safety and well-being as its top priority. Zuniga stated, “This agreement reflects our continued commitment to strengthening systems that support safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments.” He highlighted the importance of enhanced protocols, increased transparency, and expanded training aimed at ensuring every student feels valued and supported.

The El Monte Union High School District serves approximately 9,500 students across eight campuses, making the need for effective safeguards more critical than ever.

Looking Ahead

The settlement not only addresses past grievances but also strives to foster an environment where students can thrive without the burden of harassment or abuse. By promoting transparency and support, the El Monte Union High School District aims to rebuild trust within its community and safeguard the future of its students.

For more information on best practices related to handling misconduct in schools, explore educational resources here.