Author: Illiana Banuelos

Michael Ruesch has been a cherished student at John F. Miller School since 2012, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who has had the privilege of knowing him. Throughout the years, he has faced and overcome numerous medical challenges with strength and resilience, serving as a true inspiration to all. With the support of augmentative and assistive technology, Michael actively engages in classroom activities, demonstrating his enthusiasm for learning and interaction. His radiant smile and infectious laughter bring joy to those around him, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere. He thrives on meaningful connections with adults, responding eagerly to their…

Tell Mila that something is impossible, and she will show you why most things are possible, and she will do so with grace, grit, and a spirit of tenacity! Her latest bout of “you think I can’t?” prompted her to lead over 70 students in a fun run, using, as she calls it, her “favorite life-tool;” her wheelchair. Milagros “Mila” Diaz; at her birth her mother was told that she would not walk, talk or see. Mila continues to astound doctors; enduring through 12 surgeries for severe Spina Bifida. She has fought to keep her faith and will to live…

LAS VEGAS – Agenda Item 2.03 – 2024 Strategic Plan Update on Student Discipline The Clark County School District (CCSD) Board of School Trustees accepted a presentation on the Focus: 2024 Strategic Plan focused on student discipline. The presentation noted a decrease in student suspensions and discretionary expulsions during the first semester of the 2024-25 school year compared to the previous year. The report identified several efforts that have contributed to improvements including, enhanced communication with families, additional resources for schools to promote positive campus culture, and revisions to the CCSD Student Code of Conduct. To view documents related to…

Audreyanna Tebbens’ academic achievements showcase her dedication and intellect. With a 4.88 GPA, she serves as President of the National Honor Society while pursuing an Associate of Science degree in high school. She consistently takes on the most challenging courses, excelling even under difficult circumstances. Beyond academics, Audreyanna’s resilience is unmatched. Over the summer, she worked two jobs—logging up to 60 hours a week—while continuing her education. She also helped her family during the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has shaped her into a compassionate, driven individual. As a shift leader at work and a student leader in NHS,…

Desert Pines High School is proud to recognize Alyssa Barrera as the 2025 Star Graduate! Alyssa Barrera embodies the epitome of academic excellence and leadership. Not only does she excel academically, but she also is a student athlete and an active leader on campus. Alyssa is the Student Body President and an integral member of the Varsity Girls Soccer Team. During her time at Desert Pines High School, she has served as the President of the National Honor Society and has also been involved in the Student Organization of Latinos, displaying her dedication to both her studies and community. Alyssa’s…

Savanna Truax has demonstrated exceptional leadership at Foothill High School, both in and out of the classroom. Her unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her passion for seizing opportunities set her apart as a remarkable student and leader. Savanna’s commitment to her goals is evident through her outstanding academic achievements and extensive extracurricular involvement. Despite a rigorous schedule filled with Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment courses, she excels as the quarterback and captain of Foothill’s state champion flag football team, captain of the track team, and a key player on the varsity soccer team. Beyond her athletic and academic…

Wednesday is Nevada Moves Day! Every year, the Clark County School District (CCSD) participates in the state-wide celebration which highlights the benefits of safe walking and biking to school.  Students across the District will participate in Nevada Moves Day events that promote physical activity.  To learn more about Nevada Moves Day through the Clark County School District’s Safe Routes to School, visit https://engage.ccsd.net/saferoutestoschool/. Follow along on the District’s social media to see how our students are celebrating! 

Evelyn Duenas Martinez is an exceptional scholar and person. She is a unique combination of brilliance and hard work. Evelyn will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) this fall on a full scholarship. She has the distinction of being the first Sunrise Mountain High School student to be accepted into MIT. She earned over a 4.8 GPA and has shown elite aptitude in English as well as math and science. She has aspirations to pursue a STEM field of academic study and the opportunity to attend MIT will open a world of possibilities. She is extremely deserving of this…

Rachel Pope is a remarkable Veterinary Science student whose passion and dedication shine both in and out of the classroom. An active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), she demonstrates leadership and commitment in all she does. A National Merit Finalist and a Valedictorian candidate, Rachel’s academic prowess is exceptional, having excelled in a rigorous array of Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment courses, including Math 282. Yet, it is not only her intellect that sets her apart—Rachel is a kind and compassionate individual, always ready to support her peers and inspire them toward their own success. She…

The crowd likely didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary as they watched the Las Vegas High School baseball team celebrate an 18-1 victory on St. Patrick’s Day. However, the Wildcat players knew this mid-season game was special for their head coach Sam Thomas. The Spring Break victory marked the coach’s 500th career win, all at Las Vegas High School.  Las Vegas High School recognized the coach on their social media pages writing: “Coach Thomas insists is not about him, but rather the team that’s been by his side through every step of the journey.” The Las Vegas High School…