Certificates of recognition were presented to the school by Magnolia West, representing the office of Senator Roger Niello, Lane Gonick, representing the office of Assemblymember Josh Hoover and Citrus Heights Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff whose daughter is a proud San Juan High School graduate. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified School District 

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – In just a few weeks, members of San Juan High School's Class of 2026 will be the very first seniors to walk onto the newly modernized state-of-the art football field in McArthur Stadium to receive their diplomas.

McArthur Field was named after the late San Juan High School alumnus and World War II veteran Edwin H. McArthur, who served as a coach, dean of students and principal at the school. Three of his children, including his son Robert and Dick McArthur were in attendance for the dedication of the revamped field.

From left, proud brothers Robert and Dick McArthur, both San Juan alumni wore their lettermen sweaters to the ribbon cutting ceremony honoring their father Edwin H. McArthur who served as a coach, dean of students and principal at the high school. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

San Juan High School marked the completion of its newly modernized football stadium with a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 23 as members of the McArthur family who attended celebrated his dedication to the high school and its students.

The original track and its football field was built in 1949, some 75 years ago. A press box above the bleachers was later added in 1950, and stadium lights were added in 1984.

The recent stadium remodel project broke ground last May and was funded by the San Juan Unified School District’s Measure P bond program which was passed by voters in 2016.

Board members of the San Juan Unified School District, students, faculty and staff joined community members, elected officials and alumni to celebrate its completion.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been less than a year since we’ve broken ground,” said San Juan High School principal David Levis, welcoming guests, adding that the project represents a significant investment into the school.

He called the new facilities a “game changer” adding that the stadium represents more than just a place for sports.

“It’s where students will learn teamwork, discipline, build confidence and memories, and where community will come together,” he said.

The project, which was led by architect firm Verde Design, contractor Robert A. Bothman and construction management firm 6D PMCM, in coordination with the District’s Facilities, Construction and Modernization team, was completed on schedule.

Levis also took time to thank the school district administration, the construction and design companies and members of the San Juan High School Alumni Association.

The upgraded facility features include a new synthetic track and field, two tennis courts and improved amenities, including a ticket booth, concession area and a restroom building.

Additional improvements include ADA-accessible walkways, updated lighting, enhanced security features and landscaping, creating a safer and more welcoming space for students and the community.

A table chock full of nearly a dozen pairs of commemorative scissors were needed to cut segments of a bright red celebratory ribbon just in front of the 50-yard-line.

Principal David Levis and Board President Tanya Kravchuk each highlighted the importance of community investment and the lasting impact the new stadium will have on future student experiences.

“This moment belongs to all of you,” Kravchuk told the crowd which filled the stadium bleachers just in front of her.

“Your support of San Juan Unified’s local bond measures makes projects like this possible,” she said. “These investments create spaces that inspire learning, build pride and strengthen connections across our schools and neighborhoods.”

Robert McArthur, son of Edwin H. McArthur, wearing his red and white trimmed letterman sweater, spoke on behalf of the McArthur family.

“Thank you to all who made this day possible and the dedication of this football field complex in honor and memory of our dad,” he said.

Brenda Alcalde Navarro, a graduating senior at San Juan High was the last to speak before certificates of recognition were presented and the commemorative red ribbon was officially cut.

“Thank you to everyone who believed in us and invested in our future,” said Navarro. “Your support truly made a difference to our Spartan athletes. It is an honor to be here today, and it will be an even greater honor to be the first class to graduate on this very field.”

Certificates of recognition were presented to the school by Magnolia West, representing the office of Senator Roger Niello, Lane Gonick, representing the office of Assemblymember Josh Hoover and Citrus Heights Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff whose daughter is a proud San Juan High School graduate.

It’s no doubt the late Edwin H. McArthur, will be smiling down on the Class of 2026 as they cross the field, full of Spartan pride and wishing them well wherever life’s journey may take them.