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City officials and school administrators from the cities of Menifee and Perris gathered recently to honor the Students of the Month at schools in the Perris Union High School District.
The event was hosted by the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce. 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.
Parris Stephon Peacock – Liberty High School
Principal Erika Rojas proudly introduced Parris Stephon Peacock as Liberty High School’s October Student of the Month, describing him as an exceptional student-athlete, a standout football player, and a respectful, kind young man admired by staff and peers alike.
Parris expressed his gratitude to his parents, Pierre and Raquel Peacock, his brother Prince, his teacher Ms. Guzman, and Principal Rojas. He shared his involvement in football, track, AVID, and the Black Student Union, emphasizing his belief that success requires hard work, perseverance, and dedication. Inspired by his love of aviation, Parris plans to become a commercial airline pilot, beginning his journey through military service to gain flight experience and leadership skills before pursuing a degree in aviation or aerospace engineering.
Teacher Elizabeth Wissman praised Parris for his leadership, humility, and positive influence both in the classroom and on the field, calling him a role model whose presence uplifts others.
Parris’s mother, Raquel Peacock, shared her pride in her son’s resilience as a military child who adapted to five different elementary schools with determination and grace. She encouraged him to continue living by their family’s three core values: hard work, dedication, and education, and expressed gratitude to the Liberty High staff for their support.
James Brian Sisson – Paloma Valley High School
Paloma Valley High School proudly recognized James Brian Sisson as its October Student of the Month. Principal Dr. Thomas LaRochelle described James as “a shining light on campus,” a student known for his warmth, positivity, and genuine kindness. Whether greeting staff with a smile or energizing classmates through ASB videos and campus activities, James has made a lasting impression through his character and leadership.
In his speech, James reflected on his journey of growth and gratitude. After transferring from a smaller school, he challenged himself to excel academically and personally, maintaining straight A’s each grading period, serving as a student representative in the Parent Engagement Leadership Institute, earning an Outstanding Citizenship Award from the City of Menifee, and completing over 200 hours of community service. He also works summers as a counselor-in-training at Riverway Ranch Camp, giving back to a place that shaped his childhood.
James plans to pursue a business degree with a focus on marketing, applying to UC Santa Barbara, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and UCLA. He shared that while college feels daunting, he trusts God’s plan and looks forward to the future.
His teacher and mentor, Ms. Amelia Brown, praised him for his integrity and charisma, calling it the “James Factor.” She recounted how his willingness to take responsibility as a freshman revealed his character early on, and she commended him as a role model for younger students.
James’s father expressed deep pride, saying that hearing others recognize his son’s kindness, humor, and hard work is “the greatest compliment a parent can receive.”
Paloma Valley High School celebrates James as an exceptional student whose heart, leadership, and optimism embody the very best of his school community.
Isaac Orozco – Heritage High School
Heritage High School proudly recognized Isaac Orozco as its October Student of the Month, honoring his academic excellence, leadership, and creativity. Principal Jose Topete praised Isaac for his deep involvement across campus, joking that Isaac is so active he “needs a secretary” to keep up with his many commitments.
A senior with a 4.3 GPA, Isaac has demonstrated remarkable initiative and dedication. He serves as AVID President, having risen from class representative, and has contributed to programs such as Academic Decathlon and the school’s morning news broadcasts. He even created a children’s puppet show series that received thousands of views on YouTube.
In his remarks, Isaac expressed gratitude to his parents, Oliver and Connie Orozco, his sister Natalie, and grandparents Irla and Luciano, as well as to his teachers and mentors, especially Mrs. Sarah Huerta, his AVID coordinator, for their support and guidance throughout his academic journey.
Mrs. Huerta described Isaac as a “quiet yet confident leader” who exemplifies integrity, compassion, and precision in all he does. She highlighted his exceptional creativity both academically and in the kitchen, where he’s known for his baking talents. She said he has left a lasting legacy at Heritage through his leadership and kindness.
Isaac’s father, Albert Orozco, also shared heartfelt words, expressing how proud the family is of Isaac’s dedication and achievements.
“You always work with great dedication to accomplish your goals,” he said. “You’re a true role model, a wonderful brother, and we love you. Thank you for always giving your best in everything you do.”
Isaac plans to attend UCLA or UC Berkeley and major in Architecture, continuing his path of excellence and leadership as he prepares for a bright future.
Alondra Angeline Romero – Perris Lake High School
Perris Lake High School proudly recognized Alondra Angeline Romero as its October Student of the Month. Principal Dr. Pauline Garcia shared that Alondra’s story is one of courage, perseverance, and transformation. After facing personal and health challenges early in high school, Alondra found renewed strength and purpose, becoming a leader both in ASB and Yearbook.
In her heartfelt speech, Alondra reflected on overcoming severe depression brought on by life-changing health issues and shared how she learned to “find the good in everything.” She expressed gratitude to her teachers and family for their constant encouragement and said her goal is to pursue a career in the medical field, beginning at MSJC before transferring to UCR.
Her English teacher and ASB advisor, Mrs. Martha Puente, described Alondra as a bright, compassionate leader whose smile and positivity uplift those around her. She praised Alondra’s strong leadership, academic drive, and genuine care for others.
Alondra’s mother, Ana Romero, closed with an emotional tribute, calling her daughter a warrior and ncouraging her to keep fighting for her dreams.
Rocco Oliver Nelms – Perris High School
Perris High School senior Rocco Oliver Nelms was honored as Student of the Month for his leadership, resilience, and dedication to student well-being. Principal Ricardo Garcia-Felix praised Rocco for being instrumental in developing the Wellness Ambassador Program, which gives students a voice and promotes emotional support on campus. In addition to balancing academics and work at a nonprofit, Rocco is active in FFA, Drama Club, Choir, and Panther TV.
Rocco shared that his journey has not been easy, having faced personal loss and the challenges of foster care. Yet, he has persevered with strength and optimism, inspired by the memory of his late father, who taught him to “see the light in even the darkest times.” He expressed deep gratitude to his foster parents, mentor Ms. Maria Garcia, and family friend Janice Root for their constant support and encouragement.
Ms. Maria Garcia, who nominated Rocco, described him as hardworking, determined, and someone who never gives up, while Ms. Root commended his passion for advocacy and leadership through the Perris Youth Coalition, comparing his spirit to civil rights icon John Lewis.
Rocco plans to pursue a degree in political science and eventually attend law school to become a politician, continuing his mission to make a positive difference in his community.
