Chambers of Commerce Recognize Nov. Students of the Month

Pictured left to right: Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, Superintendent, Perris Union High School District; Pastor Ted Norton, Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce; Sally Myers, Founder; Dorothy Wolons, CEO, Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce; Melinda Hernandez, Perris Lake High School; Jamal Lee Morrow, Heritage High School; Rachel Alice Schlosser, Paloma Valley High School; Alejandro Contreras Urrutia, Perris High School; Mayor Daryl Busch, City of Perris; Councilman Mark Yarbrough, City of Perris; and Mayor John Denver, City of Menifee.

Each month during the calendar school year, the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce collectively present local high school students with honorary Student of the Month awards. A single student from each school is nominated by their teachers and facility and then recognized at a monthly luncheon held to honor their achievement.

Students are chosen based on 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.

November 2012 Students of the Month:

Paloma Valley High School: Rachel Alice Schlosser

Rachel is currently the commanding officer for Paloma’s NJROTC and oversees and leads 175 cadets. According to Master Sergeant Frank Puebla, she is an extremely noble and humble person with an innate ability to listen with empathy.

Rachel shared how thankful she was to receive such an honor. She plans to attend either Georgetown University or George Mason University to study forensic science.

Perris Lake High School: Melinda Hernandez

Principal Dr. Narciso Iglesias describes Melinda as fearless, and her teacher Martha Puente says she is genuine, respectful, and professional. She is avidly involved in ASB and journalism and prepares herself for every task she undertakes.

When she spoke, Melinda credited her father and brother for always supporting her. She shared that there was a time she didn’t believe in herself, but with their help, she has been able to overcome self-doubt and worked very hard to reach this point of recognition. She plans to attend the Art Institute to study photography and fashion.

Heritage High School: Jamal Lee Morrow

Principal Julie Zierold describes Jamal as a hard-working individual who demonstrates continued competence and humility despite his success. As Heritage’s football captain, he has already received a full-ride scholarship to Washington State University. His assistant football coach, Scott Moore, assured whatever path Jamal, pursues he will succeed.

He plans to study kiniesiology and communications at Washington State, and will continue to be involved with the Spread the Word Foundation, which helps kids who are dealing with cancer.

Perris High School: Alejandro Contreras Urrutia

Principal Dr. Lynne Sheffield shared that Alejandro was actually nominated by a number of teachers because of his involvement in so many activities. As active as he is in clubs, activities, and sports, he has also maintained an impressive 4.33 GPA while taking Advanced Placement classes.

He is currently tied for the top spot at Perris High School. He plans go attend a UC school to study mechanical and electrical engineering.

All of these students absolutely shine and their community, facility, and proud families commend them for the excellence. If you wish to learn more about the Student of the Month Program, contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.