Studio Arts (TIE): June Kelly, Justin-Siena High School Junior

Teacher Aleta Andrews writes this about June:

June is the type of student who is self-motivated, committed to her work, and works through challenges rather than give up. This is my second year with June and I am so proud of her growth, especially with her technical skills. June is a very thoughtful, introspective person, often incorporating more unique themes and adding a layer of depth and richness to her work.

Studio Arts (TIE): Eward Whorton, New Tech High School Senior

Teacher Sarah Brown writes this about Ed:

Ed Whorton is creative, motivated, kind and personable. Ed explores projects through experimentation with color, materials and processes. This is my third year with Ed, and every year they grow. Last year, there was a ton of experimentation with collage, and this year, Ed has been exploring the world of pastels. Ed makes the drive from American Canyon to New Tech every day, bringing engaging conversation that informs their art. We have talked about everything from art movements to vegetables to neighborhoods and happenings in San Francisco. Ed is also the driving force behind our yearbook photo documenting and doing the layout of the happenings of school for the yearbook and giving 100% all the time.

Vocal: Rochelle Suspene, American Canyon High School Senior

Teacher Jamie Butler writes this about Rochelle:

Rochelle is the heartbeat of our choir program. She sings in every top-level group (Concert Choir, Chamber Choir & PDA) and humbly serves as a section leader. She not only has the strongest voice in her section, but she is in the middle of just about every funny moment in choir. Rochelle possesses an amazing sense of humor that keeps the room light and helps to engage her classmates in rehearsal, even when it’s not going well! She could not be more loved by her peers, and she is a joy to teach. Rochelle is going to make a difference in this world.

Creative Writing: Maddie Chiu, Vintage High School Junior

Teacher Jennifer LaMonte writes this about Maddie:

Maddie excels at both writing and reciting poetry. Her performance in this year’s Poetry Out Loud competitions, at both the local level and the state level, was revelatory and nuanced. Maddie’s excellence stems not just from her stellar work ethic or natural talent but from her charming humility and grace. She is always working to be the best, but she seems to understand that being the best means more when you express kindness and support to others along the way. I am so proud of her bravery and the way she “cracked open” each of the three poems she recited, making them resonate in the hearts of every listener.

Theater (Acting) TIE: Ainsley McNicolll, Justin-Siena High School Junior

Teacher James Bailey writes this about Ainsley:

Ainsley is an extremely dedicated theatre student…She just played “Eve” (lead) in our musical, “Children of Eden” and went right into Lucky Penny’s production of “The Sound of Music” as Liesl. Ainsley also wrote and directed a short play that was part of our “24 Hour Plays.” This summer, Ainsley was accepted to two theatre studies programs, including the National High School Institute at Northwestern University.

Theater (Acting) TIE: Lilia Simon, Napa High School Senior

Teacher Patty Profitt writes this about Lilia:

Lilia Simon, a guest student from Belgium, has been a wonderful addition to our theatre program this year. After a lead role last year in a play at her own high school, she decided to try theater here in the United States. Lilia first crewed for Wuthering Heights, then took on roles in Hamlet, The Lantern in the Dark, and Narnia. She became a member of the International Thespian Society, and she’s an example of the ideals that thespians uphold. Lilia works hard, helps others, and is a responsible member of a production.

Studio Arts (TIE): Marjorie (MJ) Terrien, Shearer School 6th Grade

Teacher Robert Todd writes this about MJ:

Majorie (MJ) is a highly motivated student who works hard and loves any opportunity to be creative. She takes initiative when she wants to make positive change for all of her classmates. She advocates for all those she cares for and beyond. This passion is reflected in her art, and for that reason, she is highly deserving of this honor.

Studio Arts (TIE): Julian Gallegos, Mayacamas Charter Middle School 8th Grade

Teacher Aimee Reed-Heidenreich says this about Julian:

Julian is a wonderful student who enjoys art. He did an amazing job in our watercolor unit and creating his squash book. I thought his painting, doodling, and overall process in creating his book were wonderful.

Studio Arts (TIE): Leo Panton, Bel Aire Park Magnet Elementary School 5th Grade

Teacher Tere Charney writes this about Leo:

Leo is a confident yet humble artist who finds joy in creating art in a personal style that is quite advanced for his young age. He enjoys sharing his ideas with his peers and his teachers to get feedback for reflection and just simply in his excitement for his ideas. Leo is a risk taker and is agreeable to trying new techniques either on his own or suggested by his art teacher.

Studio Arts (TIE): Reece O’Donnell, Phillips Magnet School 5th Grade

Teacher Jennifer Veveiros writes this about Reece:

To celebrate Black History Month, students learned about the art of Faith Ringgold. We created story quilts out of construction paper and oil pastels, and Reece really worked hard to make a border that resembled a quilt. She also created a scene from a happy moment in her life (when she and her family went camping). Reece took all she learned from our art lessons and poured it into her own creation. She is a truly talented artist and deserves to be recognized!