Community changemakers: Vote for AZCentral's Student of the Week, Nov. 4-8!
Student of the Week offers schools the chance to celebrate teens who have placed in an art, dance or music competition, excelled in a science fair, won an essay contest, received a scholarship, were recognized for their volunteer service or have shined in some other way.
All high schools in Arizona are invited to nominate students to be included in an online poll where azcentral.com readers vote to choose the Student of the Week.
Student of the Week voting is open from 6 a.m. Monday through noon Wednesday. Each week's winner is announced online on Friday at 6 a.m.
How to nominate: Do you know a teen worth celebrating? Nominate them for Arizona Student of the Week
Meet this week's nominees!
Elisha Barron, senior, Camelback High School
Elisha Barron is a dedicated, well-rounded student who excels both in and out of the classroom. As a top scholar, he consistently demonstrates academic excellence and a deep commitment to learning. Elisha leads with determination and resilience as the captain of the swim team, setting a positive example for teammates and encouraging them to reach their potential. Beyond school, Elisha further spreads his light by volunteering with a local church group on a weekly basis and by serving the community as a lifeguard for the city of Phoenix during the summer. At home, Elisha is incredibly supportive of his family and willing to lend a hand or offer encouragement.
Nomination submitted by Crystal Yost and Heather Wallace, swim/dive head coaches, Camelback High School.
Ellegra Davis, junior, Chaparral High School
Ellegra Davis deserves to be the Student of the Week due to her dedication to making the community a better place through leadership, philanthropy and community events. Ellegra organized a Human Library event at our school with six speakers acting as "books" to tell their stories to the community. The concept of a Human Library is to "unjudge someone" by participating in open dialogue between "books" and their "readers" to challenge stigma and stereotypes. Ellegra organized and hosted this event with speakers from all over the country. This is only the second time it has been hosted at a high school in the U.S. Ellegra is working to change the world, and I think she deserves this recognition.
Nomination submitted by Megan Bird, assistant principal, Chaparral High School.
Johana E. Moreno-Sepulveda, junior, Carl Hayden Community High School
As an active member of student government and in her role as vice president, Johana E. Moreno-Sepulveda advocates for her peers, fostering an inclusive and supportive school environment. In the Achieving College Education program, Johana is dedicated to academic excellence and higher education goals. She has challenged herself since her freshman year by taking multiple honor classes and maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Her involvement in French Club demonstrates a commitment to cultural understanding and personal growth. As a current intern for Phoenix City Councilmember Laura Pastor, Johana has gained invaluable experience in public service, showing initiative and dedication to improving her community.
Nomination submitted Jaxinta Shaffer, social worker, Carl Hayden Community High School.
Andrea Mungia, junior, Casa Grande Union High School
Andrea Mungia is a 16-year-old junior at Casa Grande Union High School who has worked very hard toward her goals since her freshman year. Andrea has played soccer for two years and plans to play another season this year. She is one of the first players for our new flag football team, which currently holds a record of nine wins and zero losses. Not just a phenomenal athlete, Andrea works hard to keep up her grades and is a member of the National Honors Society. She has been in CTE Marketing for three years and is a member of DECA. Andrea also is a member of Key Club and Link Crew. She has accomplished so much, even after experiencing the loss of her father recently. She is very deserving of this recognition.
Nomination submitted by Corin Nieto, inspiring excellence coach, Casa Grande Union High School.
