Mel Spence left his mark on East High for twenty-two years from its opening day in 1959, first as a teacher and later coach, assistant principal, and principal until he was promoted to District 60 Director of Secondary Education in 1981.
The respect of the eastside community, the East High faculty, and East's students had for Mr. Spence resulted in the gym being named the "Mel Spence Gym" in recognition of his devoted service to East High School. From the inception of East High School, Mel Spence has been a cornerstone of East. His herculean efforts in helping East improve academically and athletically has never ended and continues to this day, evidenced by Mel being actively involved in the newest Alumni Foundation project at East High - the East High Heritage Hall, where Mel serves on the Foundation's Board of Directors. The Heritage Hall is a defining tribute to East's first 50 years, and beyond.
The atmosphere of excellence in learning that Mel Spence instilled in his students and faculty helped East produce individuals who have gone on to become a Colorado Supreme Court justice, city council members, and county commissioners, as well as scores of lawyers, engineers, doctors, business leaders, and teachers. One teacher summarized Mel Spence's contribution to the success of East High's mission as one of generosity and outstanding dedication, but most of all, his caring for all of his students and his display of outstanding pride and enthusiasm for East is what separates him from the rest. He has truly been an Eagle and will always be an Eagle.