In a first of its kind ceremony, Escalon High School put on a special awards assembly Friday afternoon, May 15 in the main gym, complete with a red carpet and plenty of kudos.
Welcoming the crowd was senior Ben Ferreira, who takes part in the daily Cougar announcements, and told those in the gym that the idea behind the new program was just to recognize those who have gone above and beyond, excelling in many areas and showcasing the school in a positive way.
High School Principal Jason Furtado served as emcee, setting the stage for a number of award presentations. He also introduced the various presenters, with honors for such achievements as perfect attendance, receiving a Block E, county recognition, being named as this year’s top student, staff member or teacher for the high school, and more.
Furtado said it was an important day on campus.
“I think it’s good for our entire student body to see these awards and the recipients,” the principal said.
Among the top honors, a trio of students were recognized for achievement at the San Joaquin County level. Ethan Jacobs and Marissa Terry each received All County Student Distinguished Team recognition, with Ayana Cocio receiving a San Joaquin Office of Education Pinnacle Student award.
Terry and Cocio have also been named as the Class of 2026 co-Valedictorians and the best friends plan to provide a joint commencement address at the May 29 Escalon High School graduation.
It was a festive atmosphere in the gym on Friday, with several honorees seated in chairs on the gym floor, while fellow students filled the bleachers on either side of the court. Those brought up to the podium for recognition got to walk on the red carpet, stretched out in the gym, Academy Awards-style.
Others singled out for honors were the Student of the Year – senior Ben Ferreira; Staff of the Year – head custodian Jose Lopez; and Teacher of the Year – English teacher Jennifer James.
The EHS choir also performed as part of the program.
Furtado said the program was a way to celebrate the accomplishments of students, faculty and staff at EHS, putting an exclamation point on the 2025-26 school year.
