Juan Gonzalez and Annika Leff were recognized as Students of the Month by the school board during the April 10th board meeting. Pictured, from left, are Superintendent Peter Livingston, school board members Tom Courtney, Jessica Risler, Annika Leff, Juan Gonzalez, board president Chelsea LaGrange and vice-president Jason Hansen. Photo by Olga Fisher
Lucerne Valley Elementary School students Annika Leff and Juan Gonzalez were recognized by the LVUSD Board of Trustees as the school’s April Students of the Month.
The students were introduced by Principal Mrs. Joanna Mora.
“He’s just an amazing boy,” Mrs. Mora said of the third-grader. “Juan Gonzalez is an outstanding student and embodies excellence, determination and kindness,” Mrs. Mora said, quoting his nominator, Mrs. Stiles. “He goes above and beyond in everything he does. As a self-starter he never backs down from a challenge. His kind heart and willingness to help others makes him a true leader among his peers. Juan always gives 110%. His dedication, positivity and unstoppable work ethic make him a perfect choice for Student of the Month.”
After Mrs. Mora’s presentation, LVMHS Assistant Principal Chris Watkins read a Spanish language version of the presentation of Juan’s award for the student’s mother who sat proudly in the audience.
Next Mrs. Mora introduced “an all-around amazing girl,” 5th grader Annika Leff. “Annika is an outstanding student who consistently completes high-quality work. Her dedication to learning and self-improvement is truly commendable. Annika approaches every subject with a growth mindset, tirelessly working to better her skills. She routinely asks for extra work in and out of the classroom, demonstrating an exceptional level of motivation and achievement.
“Beyond her academics, Annika is a natural leader in the classroom. She actively participates in discussions across all subjects and is capable of being a leader, elevating the learning experience of her peers.”
Mrs. Mora noted that Annika serves as student representative at school board meetings and has shown great improvement in her public speaking skills. “She meets every challenge as an opportunity to approach obstacles with determination and positivity. She radiates optimism and always looks for the good in every situation, setting an incredible example for her classmates.”