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City officials and school administrators from the cities of Menifee and Perris gathered recently to honor the October 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.
Jack Wentz – Heritage High School
Jack Wentz, a senior at Heritage High School, was recognized as Student of the Month for his academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving others. Assistant Principal Brandon Jones congratulated Jack, noting that he has had the privilege of watching him grow from a freshman into an outstanding young man and leader.
Jack maintains a GPA above 4.0 while taking multiple Advanced Placement (AP) and dual-enrollment courses. He is also a member of the varsity baseball team and serves in his third year of Associated Student Body (ASB), where he helps organize school activities, including Homecoming. Additionally, he attends early-morning church school before the regular school day.
ASB Co-Director Renee Garcia praised Jack for his positive attitude, kindness, and willingness to take on any task. She described him as a source of encouragement and a natural leader who makes others feel welcome and supported. Mrs. Garcia noted that Jack consistently approaches responsibilities with a smile and helps bring people together.
During his remarks, Jack thanked the program sponsors, his family, and Heritage High School for the recognition. He shared that one of the most important lessons he has learned is to remain positive and work hard, even when faced with challenges. After graduation, Jack plans to serve a mission for his church before attending BYU, where he hopes to pursue law school and become an attorney like his grandfather.
Jack’s father, Chris Wentz, expressed pride in his son’s accomplishments, character, and dedication. He highlighted Jack’s ability to build relationships, bring people together, and make others feel welcome. He also thanked the sponsors for investing in and recognizing outstanding students.
Jack’s recognition celebrates not only his academic success and extracurricular involvement but also his character, leadership, and commitment to making a positive difference in his school and community.
Ireland McCoy – Liberty High School
Liberty High School Principal Erika Rojas announced Ireland McCoy as the school’s Student of the Month in recognition of her outstanding leadership, creativity, and dedication to her school and community. Mrs. Rojas praised Ireland as a positive influence on campus who consistently demonstrates compassion, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
Ireland serves as an ASB president, president of the school’s theater troupe, and member of the varsity dance team. She is also actively involved in theater outside of school. Through these activities, she has demonstrated the ability to balance multiple responsibilities while encouraging teamwork, creativity, and inclusion among her peers.
Mrs. Chelsea Dove, teacher, highlighted Ireland’s contributions to the program over the past three years. Ireland began as an ensemble member in the troupe’s award-winning production of Hadestown, where she also choreographed the show. She later performed a lead role in the spring musical and now serves as assistant director for the school’s play and festival president. Mrs. Dove praised Ireland’s dedication, collaborative spirit, and attention to detail, noting that she consistently gives her best while helping others shine.
During her remarks, Ireland thanked her family, teachers, mentors, and the program’s sponsors for their continued support. She shared that one of the most important lessons she has learned is that making a difference does not require perfection. Instead, she emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes, being consistent, and showing up for those who depend on you.
After graduation, Ireland plans to attend a four-year university in California, where she hopes to study political science or pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater while continuing to explore her interest in law.
Her father, Patrick McCoy, expressed pride in Ireland’s accomplishments and character, describing her as someone who consistently makes thoughtful decisions and brings joy to those around her. He encouraged her to continue sharing her positive spirit and never lose her “sparkle.”
Ireland’s recognition reflects her commitment to leadership, the arts, and creating a welcoming school environment where others feel valued and included.
Eloy Miranda – Perris Lake High School
Perris Lake High School Principal Dr. Pauline Garcia recognized senior Eloy Miranda as Student of the Month, praising his personal growth, perseverance, and renewed commitment to his education. Dr. Garcia shared that nearly half of the school’s teaching staff nominated Eloy, reflecting the positive impact he has made on campus.
Eloy joined Perris Lake High School last year and worked through personal challenges while developing stronger habits and focusing on his future. Teacher Carol Stern praised his transformation, describing him as an intelligent, energetic student who brings a unique and positive spirit to the campus.
During his remarks, Eloy shared how the loss of a cousin, whom he considered a brother, deeply affected him. He explained that he eventually realized his choices impacted not only himself but also his family, motivating him to make better decisions and take pride in making his loved ones proud. He also credited his grandfather, whom he looks up to as a father figure, for helping shape the person he is today.
Outside the classroom, Eloy enjoys working with horses and caring for animals alongside his grandfather. Stern praised his strong family values and encouraged him to continue developing his talents and giving back to his community.
Eloy’s mother, Vicky Navarro, expressed her gratitude and shared that she was surprised and deeply moved by her son’s recognition. She described the award as confirmation that her prayers had been heard and thanked everyone who helped make the recognition possible. Navarro also expressed how proud she and her family are of Eloy and the positive choices he has made.
Eloy’s recognition celebrates his resilience, personal growth, and commitment to building a positive future while honoring the family and educators who have supported him along the way.
Jose Rosales Melendez – Paloma Valley High School
Paloma Valley High School Principal Dr. Thomas LaRochelle selected senior Jose Rosales Melendez as Student of the Month, recognizing his academic achievements, enthusiasm for learning, and positive contributions to his school and community. Dr. LaRochelle noted that Jose has earned consistently high grades and received enthusiastic support from staff members, including those who have not taught him directly.
Jose participates in varsity track and cross country and takes pride in serving his community. He highlighted his volunteer work at the Santa Fe Depot and Hemet Museum, where he helped educate visitors about local history and share perspectives about his community. He explained that one of the most important lessons he has learned through academics and athletics is that personal growth often comes through struggle, setbacks, and perseverance.
Teacher Maria Schmidt described Jose as a kind, respectful, and enthusiastic learner who enjoys sharing new information and encouraging others to explore what he discovers. She praised his curiosity and willingness to ask questions, noting that his enthusiasm for learning positively influences those around him.
After graduation, Jose hopes to attend a University of California research campus and study neuroscience. He is fascinated by the brain and hopes to pursue research that advances understanding of how it functions. He also hopes to give back through mentorship, following the example of his older brother, who supports Division I athletes with academic challenges.
Jose’s mother, Juana Melendez, expressed pride in her son’s accomplishments and personal growth. As a single parent, she reflected on the challenges they have overcome together and praised Jose for his intelligence, honesty, kindness, resilience, and leadership. She thanked the school’s staff, teachers, and program sponsors for recognizing her son and supporting his future goals.
Jose’s recognition celebrates his dedication to learning, perseverance through challenges, and commitment to serving his family and community.
Kamila Villegas – Perris High School
Perris High School Assistant Principal Doug Cousins introduced senior Kamila Villegas as the Student of the Month, praising her academic achievement, leadership, and positive impact on campus.
Kamila is actively involved in dual enrollment, peer tutoring, Future Farmers of America (FFA), AVID, and Associated Student Body (ASB), where she has served for four years as Commissioner of Spirit. She is also a member of the school’s flag football, softball, and soccer teams. In addition to her school involvement, Kamila volunteers each summer with a youth leadership program in Sacramento, helping students with disabilities develop leadership skills and learn to advocate for themselves. Mr. Cousins also highlighted her advocacy to improve access to the school’s athletic fields, reflecting her commitment to making Perris High School a better place for students.
During her remarks, Kamila courageously shared how overcoming personal challenges with the support of her family and friends helped shape the person she is today. She spoke about the importance of accepting her experiences, continuing to persevere, and recognizing her own growth. Her story reflected her resilience and her desire to encourage others who may be facing difficult times.
Kamila plans to attend California State University, San Marcos, and major in criminology, with the goal of becoming a detective. She hopes to serve her community by helping people feel safe and supported.
Dual-enrollment English teacher Xochilt Almendarez praised Kamila’s cheerful attitude, kindness, intellectual curiosity, and dedication to her studies. She noted that Kamila consistently maintains strong academic habits, asks thoughtful questions, and advocates for herself as a learner.
Kamila’s father expressed pride in her growth, responsibility, and maturity, sharing his love and confidence in her bright future. He thanked the school, teachers, and everyone who made the recognition possible.
Kamila’s recognition celebrates her perseverance, academic commitment, leadership, and dedication to supporting others both at school and in her community.
