A Celebration of Excellence
Watsonville — Every spring, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District honors students who demonstrate exceptional hard work and determination. This year, the district took a significant step forward by holding its first unified student recognition ceremony in-person at E.A. Hall Middle School.
The event marked a return to traditional in-person celebrations after years of virtual ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Superintendent Heather Contreras highlighted that this was not just a return to in-person events, but also the first time the district held a single, unified ceremony under one roof.
“This is the first time ever that we’ve done this celebration all at one time under one roof,” she said. “In the past, when we’ve done it in person, we’ve just celebrated a couple of students at a time.”
Contreras credited the school board for their vision and support in transitioning back to an in-person event. “This was their idea and their vision to have this in person this year,” she said. “I think it’s really wonderful to be able to come together to celebrate our students and their families for the great work they’ve done this year.”
Recognizing Student Achievements
The ceremony was hosted by district spokesperson Alejandro Chavez, who emphasized the importance of recognizing the heart, determination, and resilience of the students being honored. He noted that these students represent the best of the community and serve as reminders of the impact of education.
Chavez read the names of each honoree, with the names projected on a screen behind him. As each student walked onto the stage with their principal, they received plaques from Board President Carol Turley. The students were recognized for their academic excellence, community service, athletic achievements, and advocacy for important causes.
Here are the students who were honored:
- Alianza Charter School (Elementary): Janet Vargas Martinez
- Alianza Charter School (Secondary): Paola Aguilar
- Amesti Elementary School: Brisa Lopez
- Ann Soldo Elementary School: Sebastian Alvarez Madueno
- Aptos High School: Sylvi Kayser
- Aptos Junior High School: Monserratt Martinez
- Bradley Elementary School: Wesley Daddario
- Calabasas Elementary School: Sabrina Holt
- Cesar Chavez Middle School: Maria Fernandez Grijalva Ojeda
- Diamond Technology Institute: Areli Martinez
- E.A. Hall Middle School: Gianna Morrone-Bravo
- Freedom Elementary School: Mateo Romero
- H.A. Hyde Elementary School: Sofia Campos Ramirez
- Hall District Elementary School: Melani Rico Hernandez
- Lakeview Middle School: PJ Jaring
- Landmark Elementary School: Sofia Sanchez
- MacQuiddy Elementary School: Kaylee Rocha Mendoza
- Mar Vista Elementary School: Hunter Saldana
- Mintie White Elementary School: Elisa Suarez
- New School: Angelique Martinez-Sabano
- Ohlone Elementary School: Benjamin Lopez Ventura
- Pajaro Middle School: Fernanda Camarena Zentano
- Pajaro Valley High School: Julio Gonzalez
- Radcliff Elementary School: Victoria Gonzalez
- Renaissance High School: Misael Torres
- Rio Del Mar Elementary School: Ryder Bergh
- Rolling Hills Middle School: Michelle Sanchez Vaca
- Starlight Elementary School: Donovan Gomez
- Valencia Elementary School: Lilliana Weber
- WASC Adult Education: Veronica Martinez
- Watsonville Charter School of the Arts (Primary): Emilia Lopez-Chavez
- Watsonville Charter School of the Arts (Secondary): Nadya Martinez Jasso
- Watsonville High School: Alexis Rojo-Cardenas
A Moment of Unity and Pride
The ceremony was more than just an event; it was a moment of unity and pride for the entire district. Students, families, and educators gathered to celebrate the achievements of those who have shown perseverance and dedication throughout the school year. It was a reminder of the importance of education and the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.
