School History

Pacoima Middle School opened its doors in 1954 as Pacoima Junior High School. In 1978, Pacoima Middle School was selected as a site for two magnet centers – Television, Theatre, and Fine Arts Magnet and the Computer Science and Mathematics Magnet.

Pacoima graduates have been successful in many diverse fields including teaching, theatre, television, nursing and law enforcement. Our alumni include recording artists, TV stars and a professional baseball player.

On January 31, 1957, tragedy struck Pacoima Middle School. A plane crashed on the field killing three students and injuring ninety others. The community and the American Red Cross recognized students and teachers for their heroic actions on that day.

On June 15, 1985, a mural depicting the life of Ritchie Valens was dedicated to Pacoima Middle School. Manuel Velasquez, an alumnus of the school, painted the mural. Ritchie Valens, who attended Pacoima, started growing his professional talents on our campus. Unfortunately, on Feb. 3, 1959, he died in a plane crash in Iowa along with other rock and roll stars, Buddy Holly and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson.

Our school colors – black, red and white.

Our mascot – Panther   

Our theme – PRIDE