Four students were selected for the recent Student of the Month honors at El Portal Middle School, with two sixth graders, a seventh grader and an eighth grader getting a turn in the spotlight.
Ronaldo Lora, a sixth grader, was honored for his academic growth this school year. He always goes beyond what is expected of him in all academic areas, according to his nomination. He also serves as a role model to his peers in independent and group work and teachers indicate he has a “very bright future” ahead of him as he moves forward in his educational journey.
Also saluted from sixth grade was Jessica Dietzel, chosen for her academic growth as well.
“I have seen a lot of academic growth during her sixth grade year,” said teacher Ms. Capps. “Along with being a hard working student, Jessica is very friendly, helpful and very polite.”
This year, she started in the SDC Language Arts class and worked her way into the resource class, moving from there out into the General Ed Language Arts class before the end of the school year.
Seventh grade honoree Ryan Belletto was nominated by teacher Mr. Tanis, who pointed to his academic growth, outstanding citizenship and excellence in art as reasons he was deserving of the recognition.
“Ryan has been an incredible student in art all year long,” Tanis said. “His craftsmanship and attention to detail is second to none. Ryan is always respectful and always cleans up thoroughly after class. All of Ryan’s art projects this year have been excellent.”
Finally, the eighth grade recognition went to Harlee Araujo, cited by teacher Danielle Berchtold for overcoming difficult circumstances to succeed.
“I got to know Harlee last year as a seventh grade student. When she first joined my class, she was dealing with some difficult life circumstances and having a hard time,” Berchtold explained. “Over the past two years, it has been my absolute pleasure to watch Harlee overcome weighty problems and blossom into a delightful young lady. She has found her voice, her smile, and friends who cherish her as much as I do.”
The student honorees are recognized at a breakfast meeting of the Escalon Kiwanis Club for their achievements.
