Students of the Month

Bonsall Rotary is proud to be a part of the Student of the Month programs for Fallbrook High School and Bonsall Elementary districts. Bonsall Rotary in cooperation with local Bonsall business monthly honors these special students.

The first Thursday of every school year month, 30+ organizations, individuals and official representatives honor 4 students chosen by their teachers through the Fallbrook Community Student of the Month Program(An independent organization cooperating with the High School). A huge buffet breakfast is served at the Fallbrook Country Club to recipients, family and friends and sponsors (usually about 60 people) Honorees receive acknowledgement from their family, friends and teachers plus appropriate comments form Sue Johnson, Master of Ceremonies. Bonsall Rotary cooperates with Bonsall business, Peking Wok who contributes a valuable meal and to Video Nite who contributes a free video rental, Bonsall Rotary contributes a certificate of recognition and a custom designed T-shirt for each student.

January 2011 Fallbrook Community
Students of the Month

Johnson, Bednarski, Rivera, Montague feted at event
Debbie Ramsey Managing Editor, The Fallbrook Village News

Hailey Johnson of Oasis High School and Emma Bednarski, Joel Rivera, and Maggie Montague of Fallbrook High School were selected as the January 2011 Fallbrook Community Students of the Month and honored at a special breakfast program held January 6 at Fallbrook Golf Club’s Hukilau Restaurant.

"[These four students] are everyday role models, but there is nothing everyday about them; they are extraordinary," said event emcee Lynn Grantham. Now in its 14th year, the program, designed to honor outstanding high school students, highlights students who not only have maintained high academic performance, but made significant impact on their peers, school and community. Frank Larkin and Karl Fekete of American Legion Post 365 presented the first of many awards to the students by presenting each with a personally engraved medal depicting the Lamp of Knowledge.

Hailey Johnson was nominated for the student of the month honor by Oasis teacher Dave Major. Of Johnson’s accomplishments in both the sport of tennis and academics, Major said, "Hailey has maintained an ambitious travel schedule with tennis and plans to pursue a professional career. She came to Oasis last year so that she could have flexibility with her [school] schedule. She is a delightful person and an honor roll student." Johnson has been a member of the Fallbrook High School girls tennis team and in 2010 won the Avocado East League singles championship and made it to the semi-finals of the CIF individuals tournament. Alternative high school students have only been able to compete on traditional high school teams and in CIF for the past two years. Johnson was also named to the All-Academic CIF tennis team. Described as "meticulous, organized and thorough," Johnson had has perfect attendance at school and will be graduating early. She has signed a letter of intent to play tennis at the University of Arizona, which has agreed to provide her with a full ride scholarship."I intend to study journalism in college," said Johnson.

Emma Bednarski received the student of the month honor based on the recommendation of Fallbrook High English teacher Remy Kirkham."I’m lucky to have Emma in my class," said Kirkham. "She is an outstand person; intelligent, and has a lot of integrity. She is well respected and liked by her peers." Bednarski has been a Ticktocker with National Charity League San Luis Rey Chapter for six years, through which she has done a significant amount of community service for a variety of philanthropies. She also served on a two-week mission trip to Kenya as part of the Heart for Africa effort. Her extra-curricular involvements have also included her church’s youth group, gymnastics and dance."To be acknowledged in this way is such an honor," said Bednarski. "Being raised in Fallbrook has shown me how important it is to give back to your community." Bednarski said she is currently considering various colleges but intends to work towards a degree in a health or other natural science.

Joel Rivera was selected for the student of the month award based on the nomination of Fallbrook High School social science teacher and cross country coach Marco Arias."Joel is a special young man," said Arias. "When things get tough, he still has a smile on his face. I have a lot of outstanding students on the cross country team and his teammates look to him as a leader." Rivera was described as "inspiration" and a person with a ‘Yes I can!’ attitude. He has not only been involved in cross country, but also track events and soccer."I want to thank both Mr. Arias and my family," said Rivera. "We don’t live in a very friendly neighborhood, so I could have turned out differently. My family kept me from falling into a different lifestyle."

Maggie Montague was nominated for the student of the month honor by Fallbrook High School Advance Placement literature and English teacher Pam Munro."Achievers like Maggie just quietly get the job done," said Munro. "These individuals show us the virtue of excellence, not tell us. Maggie is an academic star and a powerful woman." Montague has been involved in high school girls basketball, both at the junior varsity and varsity level. She has volunteered on Fallbrook High’s Link crew and assisted lower classmen become more familiar with the school in addition to serving in other leadership positions. She has volunteered her time regularly to Vacation Bible School programs and serves as a confirmation leader for her church. Montague carries a 4.6 grade point average and is currently ranked number two in the Class of 2011.

The student honorees were joined at the breakfast event by family members, friends, and members of the business and service communities, as well as representatives of elected officials. Numerous gifts and certificates of achievement were presented to the four individuals.

The Fallbrook Community Student of the Month program is organized by a committee of the same name and is supported by generous local businesses and organizations, including the Angel Society, Coldwell Banker Landmark Group, Dr. Randy Carlson, Dr. Richard Goble, Fallbrook High PTSA, Fallbrook Republican Women Federated, Fallbrook Village Rotary, Fallbrook Vintage Car Club, Fallbrook Woman’s Club, Major Market, Rally for Children, American Legion Post 365, Fallbrook Golf Club & Hukilau, Fallbrook Printing, Pacific Western Bank and the Fallbrook/Bonsall Village News.

Fallbrook High Students of the Month for April 2008

FALLBROOK ---- Four local high school students had their moment in the spotlight last week during the Community Student of the Month breakfast at the Fallbrook Golf Club. This program was begun 11 years ago by a group of women, and to date 371 students have been honored. The latest honorees are Fallbrook High School students Jacob Jones, Katie Kopitzke and Zack Goshen and Ivy High School student Ben Maiava.

English teacher Betz Critchley said Jacob was her choice for outstanding senior boy.

"He's done many amazing things, but what did it for me was after the wildfires last fall," she said. "He didn't feel like there was much he could do to help because he was too young, but he decided to organize a dance and raised $1,000. It was so successful, it's going to become an annual event."

Brandon Way, minister at Katie Kopitzke's church, Christ the King Lutheran Church, praised her hard work within the church community.

"She always does an incredible job," he said. "If we go on a mission trip, she's the hardest worker. She's the one covered in mud and cement."

American Sign Language teacher Sharon Griener spoke on behalf of her student Zack Goshen.

"He's one of the most responsible, reliable, caring students I've had," she said. "He's worked as my tutor, and he's been a great kid and a wonderful role model for the others. He's creative and talented and never lets me down." She added he plans to attend the University of Colorado at Boulder and pursue a career in public affairs and international relations.

Ivy High School teacher Sheri Ryan spoke on Ben Maiava's behalf. She said when he first arrived at Ivy, Fallbrook's continuation school, he kept to himself, but gradually made friends and became interested in the school's organic garden.

"He only needs a couple more classes to finish, and he's been working as my teaching assistant," she said. "He wants to work in the computer field."

Contact staff writer Patti Magee at (760) 731-5797 or pmagee@nctimes.com.

Bonsall Students of the Month for February 2008

Patti Magee/Staff Writer and Photographer

FALLBROOK -- Four Fallbrook students were in the spotlight during the recent community Student of the Month breakfast, three from Fallbrook High School and one from Ivy High School, Fallbrook Union High School District's continuation school.

The high school students honored, from left, were Bret Hasvold, Nick Korean, Liz Green and Jerry Gonzales.

Field hockey coach Kathy Waite said Liz Green was voted most inspirational team member.

“She's always ready to do practices, the camps and the games,” Waite said. “She works to improve her game. She also begins each game with a team prayer. She does it because I can't do it.”

Waite said Liz also has a 3.9 Grade Point Average, volunteers at her church and is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

“She's been a wonderful role model,” Waite said.

Assistant Principal John Hayek spoke on behalf of Bret Hasvold, a member of the varsity cross country team. Hayek said it was through cross country that Bret emerged.

“I noticed he was behind the scenes, but then he came out of the shadows through cross country,” Hayek said.

Also speaking was Marco Arias who took over as coach following the death of Marty Hauck last September.

“He is a tremendous athlete and his work ethic is tremendous,” Arias said. “We made a connection with one another.” He hopes to attend college and study sports management.

Nick Korean, the third student from Fallbrook High to be honored, was praised by English teacher Connie Fellios “as an exemplary student who shows love for life daily. He is someone who loves to be in school.”

He also is on the Fallbrook High School Associated Student Body, is involved in Fallbrook community theater and has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. His project was building horse shelters at REINS.

He hopes to attend Chapman University and have a career in film making.

Ivy High School Principal Lisa Broomfield said when Jerry came to Ivy he told her he was unmotivated. Now he's on the principal's list and serves as student representative to the site council.

Renee Koch, librarian at Ivy High School, said Jerry is the type of student “you wish you all had. He always has a smile. He helped collect 300 cans of food and then brought them to the food pantry. He's also an accomplished guitarist and enjoys muscle cars. He's well-rounded.”

Contact staff writer Patti Magee at (760) 731-5797 or pmagee@nctimes.com

Bonsall Students of the Month for January 2008

Bonsall school district honors students of the month

Courtesy photo

Bonsall Union Elementary School District students of the month for January recently were honored at a school board meeting. From left are honorees Edwin Sanchez, fifth grade, Vivian Banks Charter School; Cody Meyer, fifth grade, Bonsall Elementary School; Cannon Hall, eighth grade, Sullivan Middle School; and Lauren Haebel, fifth grade, Bonsall West Elementary School.

Fallbrook Students of the Month for December 2007

From left are Lindsay Ice, Vicky Rivas, Brooke Wojdynski, Linda Delfin and Elizabeth Rodriquez.

Story and photo by Patti Magee/Staff Writer

FALLBROOK ---- The spotlight shone on five young women last week during the Fallbrook Community Student of the Month breakfast at the Fallbrook Golf Club. Honored were Fallbrook High School students Lindsay Ice, Vicky Rivas and Brooke Wojdynski, as well as Ivy High School Student Elizabeth Rodriquez and Oasis High School student Linda Delfin.

Lindsay Ice is an Advanced Placement Scholar who also is on the varsity diving and gymnastics teams. As a Link Crew member, she helps incoming freshmen, said English teacher Pam Munro. “ She also has participated in the local Crop Walk and has been a leader in Warriors for Christ,” Munro said, adding, “she always gives more than what is expected.”

Barbara Ajello from the Fallbrook American Association of University Women, spoke on behalf of Vicky Rivas, whom she met through the AAUW's involvement in the Advancement Via Individual Determination program. “She is so extraordinary and hard-working,” said Ajello. “She takes difficult classes like advanced placement literature and calculus -- classes I never wanted to think about taking when I was in high school.”

Guidance counselor Karen Ricci spoke on behalf of Brooke Wojdynski, describing her as passionate. “She is amazing; she is not afraid to ask the hard questions. She puts her heart and soul into the causes she adopts,” Ricci said. She hopes to attend either USC or UC Berkeley and major in political science. Her long-term goal is to be elected president of the United States.

John Roche spoke on behalf of Elizabeth Rodriquez, praising her for taking extra classes to catch up with the credits she needs. “If I give her an assignment, she'll do it,” he said. “She'll help a friend learn geometry. She also gives her time as a hospital volunteer.”

Also honored was Oasis High School student Linda Delfin. The Oasis program allows students to work independently, however, lead teacher Dave Major said Linda hopes to be able to earn enough credits to return to Fallbrook High School. Besides her academic challenges, she has had to deal with the loss of her family's home in last October's wildfires and because her parents speak no English, she has had to process all the FEMA applications. In addition to these responsibilities, she works part-time at Regency Fallbrook, an area nursing home.

Contact staff writer Patti Magee at (760) 731-5797 or pmagee@nctimes.com.

Bonsall Students of the Month for November 2007

Bonsall Rotary in cooperation with local Bonsall business, awards recipients at the monthly Bonsall School Board meeting a Certificate of achievement, gift certificates from Jack in the Box, a gift certificate from Subway and a gift certificate from Leilani’s Ice Cream. Recipients represent: Sullivan Middle School, Bonsall, Bonsall West and Vivian Banks Charter School.

Below is a copy of the Village News story on the November Bonsall Students of the Month:

Ron Jonason photo

November Students of the Month in the Bonsall Union School District are (left) Almuravid Hernandez, Vivian Banks Charter School; (center) Talia Miller, Bonsall West Elementary School; (right) Svanah Dawkins, Sullivan Middle School; and (not pictured) Adriana Cardona, Bonsall Elementary School.
Wednesday, November 21st, 2007.
Issue 47, Volume 11.

November Students of the Month in the Bonsall Union School District are (left) Almuravid Hernandez, Vivian Banks Charter School; (center) Talia Miller, Bonsall West Elementary School; (right) Svanah Dawkins, Sullivan Middle School; and (not pictured) Adriana Cardona, Bonsall Elementary School

Bonsall Students of the Month for October 2007

Fifth-graders Jordan Trouw of Bonsall Elementary, Brian Villalobos of Bonsall West Elementary and Ixchel Morfin of Vivian Banks Charter and eighth-grader Arlene Gomez of Sullivan Middle School were lauded as Students of the Month at the October 9 Bonsall Union School District meeting.

Kathy Zelasko photo

Student of the Month awards were presented by each of the students’ principals. Representatives from the offices of Kevin Jeffries, Darrel Issa and Barbara Boxer attended, along with members of the Bonsall Woman’s Club and Bonsall Chamber of Commerce.

Principal Bill Rash of Bonsall Elementary School honored Jordan Trouw. “We are very fortunate to have Jordan in my class,” read Rash in a letter from Trouw’s teacher, Mr. Bossaler. “She is sweet, warm, caring and kind to her peers. Jordan was a straight ‘A’ student last year and will be one again this year.” “When I found out I was named Student of the Month I was very excited and started dancing,” said Trouw, whose future plans are to be a doctor or orthodontist. Trouw’s parents, Anne and Arie, along with a few cousins and grandparents, were there to celebrate her achievement.

Bonsall West Elementary student Brian Villalobos was recognized by Principal Janet Widdon after teachers Mr. Stark and Mrs. Lascano nominated Villalobos for Student of the Month. “Brian can be easily chosen as Student of the Month every month,” read Widdon. “He is a great role model. Brian is always helping others.” “Brian is a good boy; he is a good student,” agreed parents Luciano and Yolanda. “We are very proud of him.” Villalobos loves football and school. One day he would like to become a professional football player. “I am very excited to be Student of the Month,” he said. “It is such an honor.”

Ixchel Morfin from Vivian Banks Charter School received high praise when presented with her Student of the Month award from Principal Eric Kosch. “Ixchel is an outstanding student,” said Kosch. “She has excellent ideas, reads above her grade level and is very much admired by other students. It is a privilege to know her and have her at our school.” Parents Ruben Morfin and Naomi Kadinoff, along with Ixchel’s younger brother, were on hand for the awards. “We are very happy and proud of Ixchel,” Kadinoff said. “It is our hope that she keeps up the good work.”

Arlene Gomez said she was “very surprised” when she found out she was Student of the Month for Sullivan Middle School. “I got called to the principal’s office and was very nervous,” Gomez said. “I kept trying to figure out what I had done wrong. When I walked in she told me to relax, that I was nominated for Student of the Month. I was so surprised!” “Arlene is a remarkable teenager,” related Principal Lori Cummins. “She does high-quality work. Her reading level is a 13.0, which is college level. Arlene will achieve her goal and be known for success in all she does.” “My wife and I are extremely proud of Arlene,” said Domingo Gomez. Gomez said she plans to pursue a career in medicine, possibly as a pediatrician.