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The Perris Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce held its most recent Student of the Month breakfast at the Perris Sizzler, 91 West Nuevo Road on April 8. Sally Myers of BMW Management/Sizzler Restaurants founded the program, which began including schools in the Perris Union High School District in 1998.
She emceed the event, sharing the mission of her nonprofit organization that partners with the local Chambers. The program acknowledges and honors college or trade school-bound seniors for their character, love of learning and commitment to academics, in addition to participation in athletics, school activities and community service. It also commends those who have persevered through challenging life circumstances, all in a setting that honors God, country, family, community and free enterprise.
Large tote bags filled with gifts, certificates of recognition, and more were donated by the program’s sponsors to the award recipients. Each student was invited to the podium to share their personal story, past challenges and future goals with a room full of supporters that included principals, teachers, peers and family members, as well as community and school district dignitaries.
April’s students of the month are Heritage High School’s Paulina Reyes, Liberty High’s Londyn Govan, Paloma Valley’s Kayla Panlilio, and Perris Lake High School’s Abigail Perez.
Heritage High School recognized Paulina Reyes for April. Principal Jose Topete said Paulina participates in film and agriculture programs while also competing in water polo, demonstrating both academic and extracurricular dedication. Paulina described how years of striving for perfection led to self-doubt and serious health challenges. She spoke about learning to overcome those pressures, embracing authenticity, and recognizing that growth comes from accepting imperfections. Paulina credited her resilience to the unwavering support of her family, friends, and teacher Nicholis Kalantar, who believed in her during difficult times. Kalantar praised her as a dedicated leader, accomplished filmmaker, and compassionate peer. Paulina plans to attend UC Riverside to major in psychology with a minor in Spanish, with the goal of becoming a social worker to support families in need.
Londyn Govan is Liberty High School’s April Student of the Month and Principal Erika Rojas praised her as a leader who embodies positivity, integrity, and inclusivity through her involvement in cheer and the Black Student Union. Londyn shared how her upbringing and desire to be a role model for her siblings motivated her to excel academically and lead with purpose. As Black Student Union president and cheer captain she focuses on bringing students together, especially those who may feel overlooked. Teacher Allison Weaver emphasized the outstanding senior’s ability to balance academics and extracurriculars while motivating other students, particularly young women, to get involved and step into leadership roles. Londyn plans to attend a four-year university to study biology on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon.
Paloma Valley High School’s Kayla Panlilio was chosen for recognition this month. Principal Thomas LaRochelle noted that she is widely respected by teachers and peers for her joyful presence, pride in her work, and ability to excel in all she does. Kayla shared that she is involved in multiple clubs and holds leadership roles in nearly all of them. She emphasized her passion for supporting others and creating inclusive environments where students feel welcome and confident. She reflected on overcoming early nervousness in high school and learning to trust herself, which helped her grow into a more independent and motivated leader. Kayla plans to attend San Diego State University to study kinesiology on a pre physical therapy track, with the goal of becoming a physical therapist.
Kaylin Tabil is Perris High School’s choice this month. Principal Ricardo Garcia-Felix honored student-athlete Kaylin for her leadership, academic balance, and commitment to building a positive school culture. He highlighted her roles in volleyball and AVID and as ASB vice president. Kaylin reflected on how her high school experience helped her grow through new opportunities and challenges. She encouraged fellow students to embrace discomfort and new experiences as a path to personal growth, sharing that “being stagnant does not grow character.” Teacher Angelica Osuna described Kaylin as a determined student whose leadership is rooted in relationships and service to others and praised her impact on campus, stating she embodies “leadership through kindness and growth.” Kaylin plans to attend California State University, Long Beach to study health administration.
Perris Lake High School singled out Abigail Perez for its Student of the Month. Administrator Heather Avila highlighted her remarkable growth since transferring during her junior year. Once unsure of herself and disengaged from school, Abigail has become confident, visible on campus, and academically successful. She shared her journey of overcoming mental health challenges and finding motivation after transferring schools. She expressed pride in turning her life around, getting back on track to graduate, and proving that determination can lead to success. Teacher Stephany Lon spoke of her student’s quiet strength, kindness, and consistently positive presence in the classroom. Abigail plans to attend Mt. San Jacinto College to study art and pursue a career as a wedding painter, capturing meaningful moments for others.
To learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.
