Palm Springs students among those honored for resilience and determination

Seven students from Palm Springs schools were among those honored at the “Every Student Succeeding” ceremony held Wednesday evening at Richards Center for the Arts at Palm Springs High School.

The event, organized by the Palm Springs Leadership Association, honored students from each Palm Springs Unified School District school for their success despite significant challenges. Each was nominated by their school principals for demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination in their academic pursuits.

The local students receiving honors were:

• Krisangel Lopreto Chama, a student at Cahuilla Elementary, who was recognized for his rapid progress in learning English after moving from Guatemala less than a year ago. His fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Rueda, praises his perseverance, saying, “Krisangel is just an overall sweet and caring child. Despite him not speaking English, he doesn’t give up and has a growth mindset.”
• Daniel Munoz from Cielo Vista Charter School was recognized for demonstrating a remarkable transformation in behavior and academics. Once struggling with defiance and aggression, his principal said Daniel now completes his work and actively builds positive relationships with his peers.
• Zoey Carbajal Flores of Desert Learning Academy has continued her education while battling leukemia. Her teacher, Mrs. Ferguson, commends Zoey’s unwavering commitment to learning despite frequent hospital visits and treatments.
• Sunny Nguyen, a student at Katherine Finchy Elementary School, successfully transitioned from a Special Day Class to full-time general education in fifth grade. His journey was noted for exemplifying the power of effort and a positive attitude in overcoming academic challenges.
• Vista del Monte Elementary School student Juandiego Garcia Olague was honored for his perseverance, kindness, and selflessness. His teachers describe him as a student with a “pure soul and genuine love for helping others.”
• Denay Gallegos from Raymond Cree Middle School excels academically while actively contributing to her school and community. She serves on the PLUS (Peers Leaders Uniting Students) team, participates in Interact, and volunteers at the Palm Springs library.
• Palm Springs High School’s Natalie Jenkins was honored for managing mental health challenges while achieving success in rigorous courses and cheerleading. Despite requiring a 504 Plan to support her academic success, Natalie excels in Honors, AP, and Dual enrolled courses.

The Palm Springs Leadership Association, comprised of PSUSD administrators and managers, organizes the annual event to showcase the extraordinary efforts of students who overcome significant obstacles in their educational journeys.