Three Turlock Unified School District students were recognized as part of the Every Student Succeeding program.
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), Stanislaus Charter and the Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE) honored 24 local students during a recognition event on March 11.
At the end of the program, Superintendent Scott Kuykendall announced that Naomi Campbell, a 12th grade student from Adelante High School (Riverbank Unified School District), is the ACSA regional nominee and recipient of the $500 scholarship.
The Every Student Succeeding program honors students who have succeeded against challenges, gone beyond expectations, or simply won the hearts of their teachers and other staff.
The three TUSD students honored included:
— Sulmy Castellanos Paz, Pitman, 11th grade: Paz is originally from a small mountain town in Honduras that is plagued by poverty, crime and gangs. She endured numerous traumatic experiences, including attempted assault, kidnapping and shootings, constantly fearing for her life. Despite these challenges, Paz found success at Pitman High School. She quickly advanced in English, earning the title of Student of the Week for her courageous attitude and risk-taking in assignments. Her determination to rise above adversity and her capacity to love and care for others is truly inspiring.
— Daniela Silva Garcia, Wakefield, 6th grade: Garcia was born with a rare bone disorder called Osteogenesis imperfecta, which causes recurrent fractures, pain and fatigue. She was undergone eight surgeries and spend many days in the hospital, which led her to miss significant school time. Garcia transferred to Wakefield Elementary this school year and quickly adapted and made friends. Though she relies on a wheelchair due to her frail bones, Garcia values her independence and works hard to keep up with her peers. This year, she challenged herself to attend Outdoor Education and participate in all the activities. Garcia continues to push herself to attend school and stay on top of her academics.
— Randy Ortiz, TJHS, 7th grade: Ortiz has faced more challenges in his young life than most could imagine, including the death of a beloved uncle and struggles with housing. In October 2024, he began experiencing severe headaches, leading to the discovery of a possible brain hemorrhage. He was airlifted to UCSF for treatment, during which a brain tumor was also discovered. Ortiz is currently awaiting another surgery but continues to face these challenges with positivity. Despite having to take time off from school for medical reasons, he maintained a 4.0 GPA. His caring nature extends beyond his academic achievements. His strength, kindness and optimism in the face of hardship inspire everyone around him.
