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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 Oct. 14. Sally Myers of BMW Management/Sizzler Restaurants founded the program that began including Perris Union High School District schools in 1998.
Heritage High School video production teacher and media arts advisor Nicholis Kalantar emceed the event. The mission of the nonprofit organization that partners with the local Chambers is to acknowledge and honor 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.
October’s students of the month are Heritage High School’s Jack Wentz, Liberty High’s Ireland McCoy, Paloma Valley’s Jose Rosales Melendez, Perris High School’s Kamila Villegas, and Perris Lake High School’s Eloy Miranda.
Heritage High School recognized Jack Wentz for his academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving others. Assistant Principal Brandon Jones noted that he has had the privilege of watching Jack grow from a freshman into an outstanding young man and leader. Alongside his academic accomplishments, Jack is a member of the varsity baseball team and serves in his third year of Associated Student Body (ASB), where he helps organize school activities, including Homecoming. ASB Co-Director Renee Garcia praised Jack for his positive attitude, kindness, and willingness to take on any task. Additionally, he attends early-morning church school before the regular school day. Jack shared that one of the most important lessons he has learned is to remain positive and work hard, even when faced with challenges. After graduation he plans to serve a mission for his church before attending Brigham Young University, where he hopes to pursue law school and become an attorney like his grandfather.
Ireland McCoy is Liberty High School’s October Student of the Month and Principal Erika Rojas praised her for her outstanding leadership, creativity, and dedication to her school and community. Ireland serves as an ASB president, president of the school’s theater troupe, and member of the varsity dance team. She is also actively involved in theater outside of school. Through these activities, she has demonstrated the ability to balance multiple responsibilities while encouraging teamwork, creativity, and inclusion among her peers. Ireland shared that one of the most important lessons she has learned is that making a difference does not require perfection. Instead, she emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes, being consistent, and showing up for those who depend on you. After graduation, Ireland plans to attend a four-year university in California, where she hopes to study political science or pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater while continuing to explore her interest in law.
Paloma Valley High School’s Jose Rosales Melendez was introduced by Principal Thomas LaRochelle as being recognized for his academic achievements, enthusiasm for learning, and positive contributions to his school and community. Jose participates in varsity track and cross country and takes pride in serving his community. He highlighted his volunteer work at the Santa Fe Depot and Hemet Museum, where he helped educate visitors about local history and share perspectives about his community. He explained that one of the most important lessons he has learned through academics and athletics is that personal growth often comes through struggle, setbacks, and perseverance. After graduation, Jose hopes to attend a University of California research campus to study neuroscience. He is fascinated by the brain and hopes to pursue research that advances understanding of how it functions. He also hopes to give back through mentorship, following the example of his older brother, who supports Division I athletes with academic challenges.
Kamila Villegas is Perris High School’s choice this month. Assistant Principal Doug Cousins praised her academic achievement, leadership, and positive impact on campus. Kamila is actively involved in dual enrollment, peer tutoring, Future Farmers of America (FFA), AVID, and Associated Student Body (ASB), where she has served for four years as Commissioner of Spirit. She is also a member of the school’s flag football, softball, and soccer teams. Kamila volunteers each summer with a youth leadership program in Sacramento, helping students with disabilities develop leadership skills and learn to advocate for themselves. Kamila shared how overcoming personal challenges with the support of her family and friends helped shape the person she is today. She spoke about the importance of accepting her experiences. Kamila plans to attend California State University, San Marcos, and major in criminology, with the goal of becoming a detective. She hopes to serve her community by helping people feel safe and supported.
Perris Lake High School singled out Eloy Miranda for its Student of the Month. Principal Pauline Garcia praised Eloy’s personal growth, perseverance, and renewed commitment to his education. She said that nearly half of the school’s teaching staff nominated Eloy, reflecting the positive impact he has made on campus. Teacher Carol Stern praised his transformation, describing him as an intelligent, energetic student who brings a unique and positive spirit to the campus. Eloy shared how the loss of a cousin, whom he considered a brother, deeply affected him. He explained that he eventually realized his choices impacted not only himself but also his family, motivating him to make better decisions and take pride in making his loved ones proud. He also credited his grandfather, whom he looks up to as a father figure, for helping shape the person he is today. Outside the classroom, Eloy enjoys working with horses and caring for animals alongside his grandfather.
To learn more about the Student of the Month Program, please contact founder Sally Myers at 951-506-8024.
