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Board approves renaming of Rosita/Reseda school to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary
Summary
The board voted to rename a district elementary school to honor Frank and Irene Palomino for their role in the Mendez v. Westminster case; Andrew Palomino addressed the board and thanked members for recognizing his family’s history.
The Garden Grove Unified School District board voted to rename a district elementary school in honor of Frank and Irene Palomino, citing the family’s role in desegregation litigation that helped reshape education access across Orange County.
A trustee introduced the naming resolution, describing months of community outreach, consultation with the Palomino family and staff work to memorialize the family’s contribution to the Mendez et al. v. Westminster case. The item authorizes changing the school’s name to Frank and Irene Palomino Elementary School effective July 1, 2026.
"This preserves the legacy of my grandparents," said Andrew Palomino, who introduced himself to the board as the couple’s grandson and thanked trustees and staff for the recognition. He recounted his family’s history and said the renaming will help students and community members learn the full narrative of the Mendez case.
Board members offered statements praising the renaming as an opportunity for education and commemoration. After discussion and public recognition of family members in attendance, the board called the roll and registered affirmative votes from trustees present.
A ribbon-cutting and further community events were mentioned as next steps; the district said staff and family will coordinate ceremony details separately.
