Welcome to El Capitan High School – Where We Learn, Love, Lead, and Leave a Legacy

Dear Gaucho Family,

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year at El Capitan High School, where our commitment to excellence is driven by purpose, passion, and pride. As your principal, I am honored to stand alongside our dedicated staff, our amazing students, and our supportive families as we begin another year of growth, opportunity, and legacy-building.

At El Capitan, our maxims — Learn, Love, Lead, and Leave a Legacy — are more than just words; they are the heart of who we are. We believe that every student is capable of greatness! It is our mission to help them unlock that potential, not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.

As a part of Merced Union High School District, we are proud to champion the goal that every student graduates with a diploma, CTE certification or proficiency, and college credit. This means providing every Gaucho with the tools, experiences, and support needed to thrive in whatever post-secondary path they choose;  college, career, or both.

Here at El Cap, every staff member is committed to supporting all students as they develop the skills, mindset, and confidence to pursue their dreams. Whether it’s through rigorous instruction, caring relationships, or meaningful extracurricular activities, we are working together toward our goal of student success!

As we launch this school year together, I leave you with this reminder from educator and author Rita Pierson:

“Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists they become the best they can possibly be.”

Let this year be one of preparing, believing, and achieving, together as a Gaucho community.

With pride,

Megan Cope
Principal, El Capitan High School
Merced Union High School District