Author: Illiana Banuelos

Isaac Cortez is an inspiring student who successfully balanced Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses, clubs, sports, as well as community service during his time at Canyon Springs High School. He is a hard worker, diligent, and overcomes challenges, both at school and personally. Isaac has always challenged himself by taking some of the most difficult classes offered at school. His high motivation and enthusiasm are appreciated by his teachers, club advisors, wrestling coaches, and the Counseling Department office staff. Isaac is a member of the We The People Competition and Mock Trial teams, a President of the school Bible…

Talah Thomas exemplifies Silverado High School’s mission, Excellence in Action, and has been named Silverado High School’s 2025 Star Graduate! Talah has been steadfast in her commitment and dedication not only to her academic excellence, but also as a member of the Silverado school community. Talah’s academic achievements place her at the top of her class as a valedictorian candidate, and her dedication to the Silverado community surpasses expectations. Talah has been a leader amongst her peers and in her community both as a role model and active participant in volunteering and leadership roles. Talah has been an integral member…

During Chasey Burek’s high school career, she has been involved in the Student Council, National Honor Society, school campus clean-ups, breast cancer awareness walks, and community engagements, including shelter dog donations and fundraising pediatric Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) clothing and blanket drives. She has earned straight A’s all four years of high school and has been selected as Valedictorian with a 4.9 GPA. She was elected Student Council President for the 2024-2025 school year. After high school, she plans to attend Southern Utah University to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to pursue a career as a NICU/Pediatric…

Symphony Devine is recognized as Palo Verde High School’s Star Graduate for her unwavering dedication and impressive achievements. This remarkable senior began working with the Best Buddies student organization during her freshmen year, driven by her desire to support her brother, who has special needs. Her work with Best Buddies and the National Honor Society has profoundly impacted the Palo Verde community. Since the age of 8, she has been a competitive cheerleader, leading her team to multiple national championships and earning the title of Most Valuable Player. Alongside her athletic pursuits, she excels academically, balancing rigorous classes with multiple…

Western High School is proud to announce I’yanna Jones as its 2025 Star Graduate. I’yanna truly embodies the values and perseverance of a Western Warrior. In her sophomore year, I’yanna faced the heartbreaking loss of her mother. Despite this profound challenge, she has demonstrated incredible resilience, unwavering determination, and a strong work ethic in everything she pursues. Her academic achievements place her at the top of her class, making her a valedictorian candidate. I’yanna’s commitment goes far beyond her studies. She is deeply involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, dedicating herself fully to each one with a passion for…

Rancho High School is proud to nominate Anthanicia “AJ” Johnson as its Star Graduate. Over the past 4 years, AJ has shown remarkable academic and personal growth. Her dedication to success is evident through consistent improvement, demonstrating both intellectual capability and unwavering commitment to excellence. AJ’s perseverance in the face of challenges has inspired her peers and teachers alike. Beyond academics, AJ stands out for her maturity and resilience. As the eldest sibling, she takes on a profound sense of responsibility, guiding her younger siblings and encouraging them to maintain hope and positivity, even in tough times. AJ also prioritizes…

Mojave High School is incredibly proud of its 2025 Star Graduate: Adriel Ait-Azzouzene. In his resume, Adriel describes himself as “extremely passionate about STEM and looking to make an impact on the world by creating technology and educating others.” Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)-bound, he is well on his way to achieving that goal. While at Mojave High School, he revived the robotics program and served as robotics captain for the past two years. He is the first Rattler to score 5s in four Advanced Placement (AP) classes and receive a perfect score on the American College Testing (ACT). In…

Audrey Fiso is amazing! She is on track to be Valedictorian at Virgin Valley High School while being a three-sport athlete EVERY year of high school. She is also an individual state champion in both shot put and discus throw in track and field. She has been team captain as well as a member of the student council. Audrey is truly the best kind of person; she is nice and inclusive to all! Congratulations to Star Graduate Audrey Fiso of Virgin Valley High School. Visit stargrads.ccsd.net to see more of CCSD’s 2025 Star Graduates.

Daniel Murillo is a remarkable young man—delightful, respectful, patient, insightful, and consistently self-advocating. He brings an enthusiastic and positive energy when discussing his goals and aspirations, demonstrating a level of depth and thoughtfulness well beyond that of the average senior. His plans reflect a strong desire to pursue a career in human services, specifically in law enforcement or the Army National Guard, with the goal of helping his community, serving his country, making his family proud, and finding personal fulfillment. Despite facing significant challenges throughout his life, Daniel has remained resilient, focused, and determined. His journey has required strength, maturity,…

April 2nd is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day!  Thank you to all of our paraprofessionals for all they do to support our students, staff and school communities. They are an invaluable resource that helps our students succeed.  Make sure to tag our Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts to show us how your school is celebrating!  Learn more about our Alternate Routes to Licensure programs here.