Mallabo, Major, Van Slyke honored as Students of Month

Contributed content:

The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce recently honored high school Students of the Month for September. The students are nominated by their teachers and staff at their respective school sites and are chosen for their 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.

The students and their families attended a breakfast sponsored by the Perris and Menifee Chambers of Commerce along with local businesses and organizations. Principals and teachers from each high school shared stories about the students and they each received certificates of recognition, numerous gifts, congratulations and encouragement from local, county, state and federal dignitaries.

Liberty High School’s Jeremy Mallabo is September’s Student of the Month. Jeremy is involved in many different facets at Liberty. He is on both the soccer and volleyball teams. He is also one of three ASB presidents and is a major player in planning various events on campus.

With all that he has on his plate, Jeremy also still maintains his high academics. Jeremy shared that he tends to thrive when actively involved. He shared that as a Bison, he is committed to representing Liberty with pride both on and off campus.

“I help lead and implement school events, which create a safe and welcoming environment for the community,” he said.

Jeremy’s ASB teacher, Candace Carillo, commented that Jeremy works hard in everything he does, and he does it with much grace and humility.

“He has helped build Liberty into what it is today with the culture,” she said.

Jeremy plans to take what he has learned and apply it as he attends UC Irvine, majoring in either civil or mechanical engineering.

Javon Major is Paloma Valley High School’s September Student of the Month. Javon embodies Paloma’s ROAR principals -- Respectful, Ambitious, Optimistic, and Responsible, according to Principal Julie Blied. He is part of the varsity football team and wrestling team. Currently ranked number five in the state, he is described as an exceptional athlete and an exceptional young man.

Coming from a military family, Javon has learned to adapt to multiple environments. A large part of that is the influence his dad has had in his life. Javon shared a bit of how his father has had an impact on him, calling him great.

“I get told I’m a great kid, respectful young man, and it makes me feel amazing. Not because I get complimented, but because all I do is follow my dad’s example and do my best to listen to his wisdom,” he stated.

Unfortunately, Javon’s dad couldn’t attend the event, but sent a letter congratulating and encouraging him. Javon plans to continue his education, majoring in business finance or analytics. His dream is to join Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and then enter the military.

Kaia Van Slyke is Heritage High School’s Student of the Month. Kaia also embodies Heritage’s core values -- Leadership, Excellence, Generosity, Academics, Character, and Opportunity, according to Principal Lindsay Chavez. She is a silent but strong leader and is dedicated to her academics, sports, and to her peers.

Kaia’s teacher, LaDawn Johnson, had nothing but praise for Kaia. She shared that Kaia excelled both in the classroom and on the volleyball court. She approaches all of it with determination and grace, inspiring both her classmates and teammates.

While Kaia has had a positive experience in high school, it has not been without its challenges. Kaia did share that as a result of having an alcoholic mother, she and her younger sister live with their grandparents. It was Kaia’s grandpa who instilled the importance of education, which Kaia has taken to heart. Kaia plans on continuing her education attending Cal Baptist University majoring in business. She hopes to come back to the community and start a volleyball program that is more affordable for families.

Perris High School’s Student of the Month is Caleb Scott. Many students go through trials and difficulties throughout their life. However, in Caleb’s case what is unique is the maturity and grace he displays, especially for one so young.

Caleb shared an obstacle he’s had to overcome was the passing of his father. Caleb chose hope over hopelessness and exuded that outlook on campus, which has not gone unnoticed. Perris High Principal on Assignment Dr. Jennifer Thomasian commented on Caleb’s outlook and how it affects campus life.

“The thing that really strikes me about him and the way that he moves in the world is that any of us facing the things he has faced could choose to show up and be angry and frustrated. But this young man comes in every morning and is just positive and joyful and spreads that character across our campus,” she said.

A 4.0 student, Caleb credits his family, teacher, and his faith in Jesus to help guide him through life’s experiences. Caleb will attend Mt. San Jacinto College, then transfer to Cal Baptist University, majoring in History. He hopes to become a rapper/streamer for social media.

California Military Institute’s Student of the Month is Ariana Abrisz-Smith. As busy people go, Ariana is one of the busiest in the district, or at least CMI. She is the 320th Battalion Commander and is president of multiple clubs, including Interact and Rotary. In addition, she is manager for multiple sports teams. With all of this and taking multiple AP and dual enrollment courses, she is able to maintain a 4.1 GPA.

As an individual, Ariana is highly respected by her teachers, peers, and staff at CMI. Some of the accolades given by staff is that she is highly organized, is dedicated, and has a caring attitude. Dr. Michael Dodson, principal, mentioned that Ariana’s positive personality, “can do” attitude, and positive leadership has greatly improved school morale.

Ariana stated that she gleans from the support of her family to help her daily. She shared that she still struggles with the loss of her mom and is grateful for a strong support system. Ariana plans to attend UCLA and enter their music studies program, as she does have a dream to become a singer.

If you wish to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.