EHS Official Logo

Vision

“Recognized for its exemplary performance, Eastwood High School sustains excellence in academics, activities, the arts and athletics.  Eastwood High School produces graduates who meet high standards of conduct, responsibility, and achievement.”

Mission

“Eastwood High School will provide every student with a quality education that prepares him or her for success in post-secondary education and is a responsible, engaged citizen in his or her community.”

About

The Origins of Eastwood High School:

Establishing a Legacy

Eastwood High School officially began its journey in the fall of 1961. While the school opened its doors then, it wasn't until 1965 that the institution celebrated its inaugural graduating class. Today, the school proudly upholds the motto: "Home of El Paso's Finest."

Quick Facts & Foundations

  • Established: Fall 1961

  • Inaugural Graduating Class: 1965

  • Official Motto: "Home of El Paso's Finest"

  • Identity Roots: The school's branding was inspired by the 1880s Cavalry heritage.

The Selection Process

The name "Eastwood" was chosen through a democratic process by parents living in the Scotsdale area. However, selecting the mascot required a collaborative effort between school leadership and industry experts.

The Decision Committee Included:

  • J.M. Hanks: Superintendent

  • Russell Paul Mack: Principal

  • Frank Goss: Area representative for Star Engraving, Ostwald Band Uniforms, and Henington Publishing Co.

The Evolution of the "Trooper"

While several names were initially proposed—including the Rebels, Plainsmen, Matadors, and Cavalry—the committee originally favored "Cavalry."

After reviewing uniform designs and testing the word in school cheers, they realized "Cavalry" felt stagnant and was difficult to chant effectively. They pivoted to "Troopers," a lively and prestigious nickname for cavalry soldiers. The student body embraced this change, confirming the mascot with a unanimous vote.

Color & Character

To ensure historical authenticity, Blue and Gold were selected as the official colors, mirroring the traditional uniforms of the era. Even in its early years, with a student population surpassing 1,000, Eastwood established a foundational culture defined by exceptional sportsmanship and school spirit.


EHS Football Field

EHS Main Gym

Mascot

The Trooper, was inspired by the tradition of the American cavalryman, leading to the school's colors of Trooper Blue and Trooper Gold.

Trooper History

Colors

The Heritage of Our Colors: Blue and Gold

At Eastwood High School, being a Trooper isn't just about a name—it’s about a legacy. Our school colors, Blue and Gold, are a direct tribute to the U.S. Cavalry Troopers of the 1880s, the brave men who once traversed the very frontiers of the American West.

The Significance of the Blue

In the 1880s, a Trooper’s uniform was his identity. The "National Blue" of the jacket represented duty and service to the country. It was a color chosen for its resilience and visibility, ensuring that even in the heat of a desert sun or the dust of a trail, a Trooper stood out as a figure of authority and protection. For us, the blue represents our steadfast commitment to excellence and the strength of our school community.

The Glory of the Gold

While the official military branch color was "Cavalry Yellow," it was the Gold accents—the brass buttons, the bullion rank insignia, and the iconic yellow trouser stripes—that gave the Cavalry their legendary "Blue and Gold" appearance.

  • The Yellow Stripe: Historically worn on the trousers of Non-Commissioned Officers, this "blood stripe" was a mark of leadership and experience.

  • The Gold Crossed Sabers: Worn on the hat, these gold emblems symbolized the sharp precision and readiness of the unit.

At Eastwood, the Gold reminds us to strive for the highest standards in academics, athletics, and character. It is the "gold standard" we set for ourselves every day.

Why We Are "Troopers"

The 1880s was a decade of transition and grit. The Troopers of that era had to be versatile, courageous, and capable of working as a unified team in challenging conditions. By adopting these colors and this mascot, Eastwood High School honors those same qualities:

  • Grit: The determination to finish what we start.

  • Loyalty: Supporting our fellow Troopers in and out of the classroom.

  • Pride: Carrying forward a tradition that is "second to none."

When we wear the Blue and Gold, we aren’t just wearing colors—we are wearing history.

"Legacy in Motion. The 1880s Cavalry Troopers: The inspiration behind our mascot, our colors, and our commitment to being 'El Paso’s Finest.'"

Fight Song

Fight Song

The Anthem of the Troopers: "Shine On"

At the heart of every Eastwood victory and pep rally is our unique fight song, "Shine On." While many schools adopt standard melodies, Eastwood High School is proud to have a completely original anthem.

Composed specifically for our school by Al Anderson—a master of the craft known for creating iconic school fight songs—"Shine On" belongs to us and us alone. It was designed to capture the "Trooper Spirit" and has served as our musical signature since the school’s early days.

EHS Fight Song

Our Victory Cry

Whether in the stands or on the field,

Troopers raise their voices together with these words:

Shine on forever, Eastwood High

Always the victor, that’s our cry

We are the brave ones, we are the true

We’ll do our best always for you!

Oh, shine on forever, Eastwood High

We’ll never stop until our victory is nigh

On Eastwood on Eastwood! We’ll never stop!

We’ll prove our worth and we’ll reach the top!

Oh reach the top

Go! Go! Team!

Why It’s Special

  • Exclusivity: Because Al Anderson wrote this specifically for Eastwood, you won’t hear this melody at any other high school in the country.

  • The Score: The original "Full Score" (pictured above) remains the foundation for the Pride of the Eastside Trooper Band, ensuring that the same powerful arrangement Al Anderson intended continues to inspire new generations of Troopers.

Alma Mater

Our Alma Mater: Queen of High Schools

While the fight song carries us through the heat of competition, our Alma Mater is the soulful anthem that unites generations of Troopers. Traditionally sung at the conclusion of athletic events, graduation ceremonies, and/or formal school gatherings, it serves as a solemn pledge of loyalty to our school.

This specific choral arrangement, which brings our anthem to life with rich harmony, was arranged by Alex Jimenez and Rick Rodriguez. Their work ensures that every time we lift our voices, we do so with a sound that is uniquely Eastwood.

The lyrics pay tribute to our school colors—Blue and Gold—and serve as a pledge of "faithful gratitude" from the students to the institution that prepares them for the world.

The Lyrics

Eastwood, Queen of high schools,

Home of the Troopers bold;

We Love your colors bright

And glorious blue and gold.

Dear Alma Mater glorious,

Whose memory we hold so true,

How can we ever show our pride

And faithful gratitude to you?

Oh! Sing, Troopers, sing

To the school we’ll always love.

Oh! Sing, Troopers sing

Let your voices soar above.

Eastwood, Queen of high schools,

Home of the Troopers brave,

Home of the proud and faithful Troopers,

May your banner always wave!

Custom arrangement by Alex Jimenez and Rick Rodriguez

Notable Alumni

Notable Alumni: The Pride of Eastwood

At Eastwood High School, our legacy of excellence extends far beyond graduation. We are proud to recognize the achievements of our Troopers who have gone on to make significant impacts in athletics, the arts, and public service.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Jack Handey (Class of 1937) A celebrated humorist and writer, Jack is best known for his iconic "Deep Thoughts" segments on Saturday Night Live. His unique comedic voice has left a lasting mark on American pop culture. Texas Monthly Interview.

Ronn Lucas (Class of 1972) An acclaimed American ventriloquist and comedian, Ronn has entertained audiences nationwide with his unique blend of stand-up and vocal skill, cementing his place as a top talent in the entertainment industry. El Paso Times Interview.

PROFESSIONAL ATHLETICS

Butch Henry (Class of 1987) A former Major League Baseball pitcher, Butch took the skills honed on the Eastwood diamond to the highest level of professional sports. El Paso Baseball Hall of Fame

Frank Castillo (Class of 1987) Frank represented Eastwood on the national stage as a Major League Baseball pitcher, demonstrating the dedication and grit of a true Trooper. El Paso Baseball Hall of Fame

Eric Jack (Class of 1990) After a standout collegiate career at the University of New Mexico, Eric went on to the National Football League as a defensive back for the Atlanta Falcons. Pro Football Archives

PUBLIC SERVICE

Senator Cesar J. Blanco (Class of 1994) Currently serving as the Texas State Senator for District 29, Cesar has dedicated his career to public service. He previously served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives for District 76 (2015–2021). The Texas Senate