7 Shocking Facts And Notable Alumni From Mark Keppel High School You Never Knew

Mark Keppel High School (MKHS), a pillar of the Alhambra Unified School District (AUSD) in Alhambra, California, continues its legacy of academic rigor and vibrant student life, with the most current data showing a student body of approximately 2,178 students for the 2023-2024 academic year.

As of December 2025, the school is buzzing with new developments, including the swearing-in of its 2024-2025 Student Board Member and the recent recognition of drama teacher Page Phillips as the Alhambra USD’s Teacher of the Year in May 2024, highlighting the school's commitment to both leadership and the Visual and Performing Arts. This deep dive explores the school's rich history, its celebrated alumni, and the cutting-edge programs that define its status as a California Distinguished School.

The Mark Keppel Dynasty: A List of Notable Alumni and Their Impact

Mark Keppel High School has produced a remarkable roster of graduates who have achieved national and international acclaim, particularly in professional sports and the entertainment industry. Their success stories underscore the diverse talent fostered within the school's crimson and white halls.

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• Mike McCormick (Pitcher): A legendary baseball player who won the prestigious Cy Young Award.
• Hank Aguirre: A distinguished Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher and coach, graduating in the class of 1950.
• Hope Sandoval: An American singer, best known as the lead vocalist for the alternative rock bands Mazzy Star and Hopewell.
• Terence Yin: An American actor whose career has spanned across various film and television roles.
• Pete Mikkelsen: Another professional baseball player who made his mark in the Major Leagues.
• B. Wayne Hughes: A successful businessman and founder of Public Storage.
• Larry Burright: An MLB infielder who played for the Los Angeles Angels.

Academic Excellence and Cutting-Edge Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways

Mark Keppel High School maintains a high standard of academic excellence, accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), with its most recent accreditation fixed term granted in 2020. The school is renowned for its rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for top-tier universities and demanding professional careers.

The academic offerings are extensive, catering to a wide range of student interests and future goals. Students can engage in a fast-paced curriculum through numerous Honors classes and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, providing them with college-level experience and the potential for college credit.

The school's commitment to college preparation is evident in its comprehensive College & Career Center, which provides guidance on everything from college applications to the Early College Program.

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The Power of CTE: Specialized Career Pathways

A major draw for MKHS is its robust Career Technical Education (CTE) program, which offers specialized pathways that allow students to earn a CTE Completer Cord for graduation. These programs merge academic knowledge with technical skills, giving students a competitive edge in the modern workforce. Key CTE pathways and programs include:

• Aspiring Medical Academy: Focused on preparing students for careers in healthcare and medicine.
• Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA): A national organization that develops leadership, academic, and business skills.
• Skills USA: A partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce.
• Woodshop: A practical program teaching technical and mechanical skills in construction and design.
• Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA): A strong emphasis on creative disciplines, recently highlighted by the recognition of the drama teacher.

Student Life and the Vibrant Culture of the Aztecs

Student life at Mark Keppel High School is characterized by a high level of engagement and a diverse array of extracurricular activities. The school’s mascot, the Aztec, represents a long-standing tradition of spirit, symbolized by the school colors of crimson and white.

The school’s cultural landscape is rich and complex, reflecting the multi-ethnic composition of the Alhambra area. While the school has historically navigated periods of racial and ethnic tension, the current environment is focused on fostering a sense of community and inclusion through various student-led organizations.

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A Hub of Clubs and Activities

MKHS boasts a wide variety of clubs and activities that cater to every interest, promoting leadership and social responsibility. These organizations are integral to the student experience and contribute significantly to topical authority and community building:

• Association of Latin American Students (ALAS): A cultural and academic support group.
• Chess Club: Fostering strategic thinking and competitive spirit.
• Days for Girls Club: A service-oriented club focused on global health and empowerment.
• Educational Learning Society: Dedicated to promoting intellectual curiosity and academic success.
• PLUS (Peer Leaders Uniting Students): A critical program under the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) that promotes positive school culture and student well-being through peer mentorship and activities.
• Water Polo: The Boys Water Polo team continues its competitive season, with updates expected for the 2025 schedule.

From the rigorous coursework in Science and Social Science to the practical skills taught in Career Technical Education, Mark Keppel High School continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution in the Alhambra Unified School District. The combination of a strong academic foundation, a commitment to modern career pathways, and a diverse, active student body ensures that MKHS graduates are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.