CORONA – Overcoming family challenges, earning multiple college degrees before their high school graduation, and pursuing career goals were the themes shared by honorees at the first Student of the Year event organized by the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) to recognize seniors in the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD).

Held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Eagle Glen Golf Club in Corona, the event highlighted three graduating seniors who were among the dozens of exceptional scholars from 10 CNUSD high schools recognized throughout the school year at Student of the Month events in November, January, and March. Organized by RCOE, in partnership with CNUSD, and the Corona-Norco Council Parent Teacher Association, the Student of the Year awardees received $2,500 in scholarship funds to pursue their post-secondary goals. Gold-level sponsorship was provided by Riverside County Second District Supervisor, Karen Spiegel.

The three Students of the Year from CNUSD are:

Stephen Kalani King III (Eleanor Roosevelt High School)

Stephen Kalani King III never set out to be a hero. But, after growing up facing poverty, moving between homes, and praying for stability, he learned to see survival as an act of rebellion. Stephen has spent most of his high school experience not knowing where he would sleep most nights, but that led him to dig deeper inside of himself. These hardships inspired him to create a safe space for others to heal by leading the UNITY club on campus—a space for students to discuss difficult topics. He plans to pursue a degree in psychology at Cal Poly Pomona with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Niaomy Lewis (John F. Kennedy Middle College High School)

At a young age, Niaomy learned you cannot wait for opportunities. After her mother put her own dreams on hold to provide Niaomy with the future she never had, Niaomy developed a mindset that pushed her to create her own path. She is on track to earning three associate degrees from Norco College, and has been accepted into California State University, San Marcos, where she will study physics with the goal of becoming a professor.

Berlin Lila Rivera (Lee V. Pollard High School)

Growing up with a single mom, financial hardships, and the responsibilities of being the oldest of five children, Berlin has become aware of life’s challenges. As a first-generation college student, she is determined to create a better future for her family and give back to her community. Berlin will be attending Riverside City College on an Elementary Teacher Education Transfer Pathway, which will allow her to transfer to a university.

“The Students of the Year are outstanding models of determination and commitment, and they are well on their way to achieving their dreams,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “Their stories reveal how overcoming challenges and exhibiting resilience are invaluable skills for all students pursuing their dreams after high school.”

“These students have faced immense challenges and turned them into powerful stories of strength, growth, and hope,” said Corona-Norco Unified School District Superintendent, Dr. Sam Buenrostro. “Their resilience is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder of why we do this work—to lift students up, remove barriers, and help them see the possibilities ahead. We’re proud to stand beside them as they take flight toward bright futures.”

About the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE)

RCOE is a service agency supporting the county’s 23 school districts and 500+ schools that serve nearly 430,000 students—more than the student population of 17 states. RCOE services include administrative support to districts and charter schools, programs for preschool, special education, pregnant minor, correctional, migrant, and vocational students. In addition, the organization provides professional training, support, and resources for more than 18,000 teachers, administrators, and staff, throughout the 7,000 square miles of Riverside County. Learn more at www.rcoe.us.

About Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD)
CNUSD consists of thirty-one elementary schools, eight intermediate/middle schools, five comprehensive high schools, a middle college high school, and three alternative schools. The district serves over 53,000 students in the diverse communities of Corona, Norco, Eastvale, and Temescal Valley. CNUSD is the largest school district in Riverside County and the seventh-largest district in California. The district’s vision is that every student has the knowledge, skills, motivation, and resilience to thrive in a diverse global community. Learn more at www.cnusd.k12.ca.us. 

About Corona-Norco Council Parent Teacher Association

Originally chartered in 1929, the Corona-Norco Council Parent PTA is celebrating 95 years of making magic for students, schools, and the communities served by CNUSD. The all-volunteer organization is a resource and source of encouragement to PTA leaders who serve the 53,000 students in 48 schools in CNUSD while celebrating scholars, supporting school and district events, and advocating for students and families. Learn more at www.coronanorcocouncilpta.com.