El Cajon, the Spanish words for “the big box”, was first recorded on September 10, 1821, describing the “boxed in” nature of the valley in which it sat. El Cajon has a total area of 14.4 square miles and was incorporated as a city in 1912.
El Cajon straddles areas of Mediterranean climate; as a result, it is often described as “arid Mediterranean” and “semi-arid Steppe”. Like most inland areas in Southern California, the climate varies dramatically within a short distance, known as microclimate. El Cajon’s climate is warm during summer with mean temperatures averaging 70.1°F and cool during winter with mean temperatures averaging 55.4°F.
Cajon Valley Union School District operates: 20 public elementary and 6 middle schools which promote achievement and excellence for elementary and middle school students. A focused vision, strong accountability and collaboration with parents and the community are keys to success. Grossmont Union High School District operates 6 public high schools.
