San Jacinto’s newest — and largest — elementary school is now open.
And its name honors a longtime leader of the nearby Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians.
The first bell rang Thursday, Aug. 7, at Rose Salgado Elementary School in San Jacinto.
A Friday, Aug. 1, ribbon-cutting ceremony drew more than 400 people, including families, tribal leaders and dignitaries. The event included a tribal blessing, a performance by the Agua Caliente Bird Singers and tours of the 12-acre campus, a news release states.
The San Jacinto Unified School District named the $39 million school for Salgado, a Soboba Tribal Council member and former San Jacinto school board member who died in 2021.
Guest speakers at the dedication included Soboba Tribal Council President Isaiah Vivanco and Salgado’s daughter Desiree Salgado, according to the release.
The campus, which has a capacity of 950 students, boasts “flexible classroom spaces, modern technology, and strong ties to cultural and community values,” the release states.
Principal Amy Rose said in the release that the values of belonging, empowerment, accountability, respect and service will guide the campus.
These qualities “reflect the spirit of Rose Salgado, whose life reminds us that education is not only about achievement — it’s about purpose, connection and service,” she said.
The Press-Enterprise, August 8, 2025
