On Monday, February 9, 2026, 94 fifth graders from Monterey Hills Elementary School attended an event featuring Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States Sonia Sotomayor at the Pasadena Playhouse.

Justice Sotomayor shared details about her upbringing with the students from various schools throughout the Pasadena community. She explained the court system, the role of attorneys, and how, during her free time, she enjoys writing children’s books and interacting with the future generation. 

Reading her most recent book, “Just Shine,” to students, Justice Sotomayor added anecdotes about her life and the important lessons she learned from her mother, including her belief that children are the future. She also encouraged students to take time to talk to people, listen, and find ways to bring brightness to their community and the world.

Monterey Hills students submitted questions for Justice Sotomayor, and some were selected to interact with her near the end of the program.

Go, Roadrunners!

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, [email protected].