April Students of the Month Honored by Local Chambers

Pictured left to right: Sally Myers, Founder; Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, Superintendent, Perris Union High School District; Dorothy Wolons, President, Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce; Coakley Rathbun, Paloma Valley High School; Robert Osorio, The Academy; Kyra Santa Cruz, Perris High School; Vince Vanterpool, Heritage High School; Mayor Daryl Busch, City of Perris; Councilman John Denver, City of Menifee; and Councilman Julio Rodriguez, City of Perris.

Each month, the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce recognize an honorary Student of the Month from each of the local high schools. These exemplary students are nominated and selected by the teachers and faculty from each respective school. Students are chosen based on their continual demonstration of character, integrity, love of learning, ability to persevere and overcome challenging circumstances, community service, and how they make a difference on their high school campus.

April celebrated four local seniors who are destined for greatness with a commemorative luncheon for the recipients and their families. Local dignitaries and officials were also in attendance to present the students with recognition.

Heritage High School: Vince Vanterpool

Vince has been pronounced “wise beyond his years” and very well rounded. But his speech and debate coach, Mr. Cloo, says what really stands out about Vince is his true character. Aside from his many accomplishments, including holding the number one position at Heritage High, he is a humble role model to his peers and sibling. He plans to enter the field of neurosurgery and is deciding between attending Stanford or joining the Navy.

Perris High School: Kyra Santa Cruz

Kyra’s teacher, Mr. Wilson, says she remains undaunted toward achieving her goals and continually raises the bar for herself. “This (she) is why we teach,” he happily commented. Kyra’s sister, Ginger, shared that she would always see her in the back seat of their car with her bug net, books, calculator and pencils. So it comes as no surprise that she plans to attend either UC Santa Cruz or UC Davis to major in botany and entomology.

The Academy: Robert Osorio

According to Principal Dr. Narciso Iglesias, Robert personifies The Academy’s motto, “Show Up, Be Cool, Take Care of Business.” He also said that while Robert is very quiet and shy, he is aware of what he wants in life. His teacher, Ms. Frieberg, added that he comes up with some of the most outlandish questions and takes advantage of every opportunity, including FNL, Anti-bully conference, and other extracurricular activities. Through attending The Academy he has learned to keep his focus on what needs to be done. He plans to join the military to extend his education in criminal justice and eventually enter the field of law enforcement.

Paloma Valley High School: Coakley Rathbun

Paloma Valley Principal Brian Morris describes Coakley as an all-around brilliant student. His English teacher, Ms. McNicholas, went on to say that while he is a leader among his peers with an exemplary work ethic, he remains extremely humble. Coakley shared how honored he was to receive such a recognition and thanked his parents for their continual support. He plans to attend either UC San Diego or Arizona State to earn his master’s degree in computer science.

All of these students demonstrated a desire to work hard and have a drive to exceed others and their own expectations. The Menifee Valley Chamber and Perris Valley Chamber wish them the best in their endeavors. If you would like to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder Sally Myers at (951) 506-8024.