On February 7th, the Wentworth Education Center in Stockton, California, played host to a remarkable event where students who overcame significant challenges were celebrated for their academic achievements. The “Every Student Succeeding” event, organized by the ACSA San Joaquin Charter in partnership with the San Joaquin County Office of Education, brought together 13 outstanding students from 8 different school districts across the county. These students have demonstrated resilience, perseverance, and dedication, and their stories serve as an inspiration to us all.
A Morning of Celebration and Recognition
The event was sponsored by Steve Fisher from Fisher Insurance Company – a Horace Mann Company. Fisher’s support helped to make this occasion a memorable one for both students and their families. The morning began with breakfast and a warm welcome from Dr. Troy Brown, the San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Brown praised the students’ hard work and tenacity in overcoming obstacles to achieve their academic goals.
Annie Cunial and Katie Wipfli, two key members of the San Joaquin County Office of Education, presented the recognitions, highlighting the unique challenges each student faced and the ways they rose above them. Their inspiring stories echoed the spirit of the event: no matter the difficulty, every student has the potential to succeed. Jane Chamberlain gave the closing remarks.
The Recognized Students
Each of the honored students received a plaque, an Amazon gift card, and a special “I CAN” inspiration and encouragement coin—a token of the strength and determination that guided them through their academic journey.
The students recognized at the event were:
- Claire Barkus – Escalon Unified SD
- Jazmin Duran – Escalon Unified SD
- Markus Alcantar – Lincoln Unified SD
- Maximus Ramos – Lincoln Unified SD
- Jalyn Torres – Linden Unified SD
- Manpreet Bains – Manteca Unified SD
- Prabhjot Singh – Manteca Unified SD
- Kasandra Vazquez – Manteca Unified SD
- Emiliano Vargas Cardenas – Oak View Elementary School District
- Alixandrea Vigil – Ripon Unified SD
- Paola Raygoza – Ripon Unified SD
- Addy Garibay – San Joaquin COE
- Gulsom Rahmati – Tracy Unified SD
Each student has their own inspiring story, from overcoming personal hardships to achieving academic excellence despite facing various challenges. These students are not only models of perseverance but also proof that success is possible with the right mindset and support system.
A Continuing Commitment to Success
The Every Student Succeeding event is a testament to the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or challenges. It also underscores the importance of community support and the impact that local businesses like Fisher Insurance Company have in helping to empower students in our region.
As these 13 students continue their educational journeys, they are sure to inspire others to reach for their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may encounter along the way. Addy Garibay from the San Joaquin County Office of Education was selected to move on to the region level.