Inspiring Scholars Shine Brightly at Corona-Norco Unified School District Student of the Month Event

CORONA – Extraordinary stories of overcoming life-threatening mental and physical challenges, earning multiple college degrees before high school graduation, conducting university-level research, and leading volunteer efforts on campus and in the community, were among the highlights shared by seniors in the Class of 2026 from all 10 Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) high schools at the second Student of the Month event of the 2025-2026 school year on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 9 a.m. at Centennial High School in Corona.

Organized by the Riverside County Office of Education, in partnership with CNUSD, and the Corona-Norco Council Parent Teacher Association Council, the event honored high school seniors from all 10 high schools in the district that serves the cities of Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Temescal Valley.

“Every student has a story that exhibits how the power of resilience, grit, and brilliance are unlocked by educational access and opportunity in our schools,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “We are thankful for the collaboration with Corona-Norco USD and the Corona-Norco Council Parent Teacher Association Council to showcase the excellence of their students of the month.” 

“During our second Student of the Month celebration, we are proud to once again shine a light on the remarkable achievements of students across CNUSD,” said Dalia Gadelmawla, Corona-Norco Unified Superintendent. “These honorees exemplify character, perseverance, and a deep dedication to both academics and serving others. They remind us of the bright future ahead, and we are grateful to recognize their accomplishments together with the families and staff who encourage them every day.” 

“We're grateful for our partnership with RCOE and CNUSD, which allows us to this opportunity to come together and honor the incredible talents of our students,” said Susie Smart, Vice-President, Corona-Norco Council of PTAs. “We can't wait to see all the incredible things you'll accomplish in the future. Together, let's continue to support each other and celebrate the amazing potential we have within our community.” 

Additional sponsorship support for the Corona-Norco Unified Student of the Month event is provided by Riverside County District 2 Supervisor, Karen Spiegel. 

Highlights from student speeches included the following:

“High school isn't just about grades and rankings. It's about appreciating the world around us, creating meaningful memories and connections, and preparing ourselves for what comes next.” - Sydney Barlett, Eleanor Roosevelt High School

“I have learned that mistakes are not failing, rather, they are opportunities for growth and improvement. This award serves as a reminder to continue striving for academic achievement, discipline, integrity, personal growth, and responsibility in all that I do. During the past few years, I have discovered that perseverance, curiosity, and stepping outside my comfort zone are just as important as textbooks and tests.” - Valen Ng, Academy of Innovation

“I've always believed that school is more than academics, grades, and titles. It's about growth, responsibility, and learning how to show up for others. One of the biggest lessons I've learned during high school is the value of effort, and that leadership isn’t always about being the loudest voice in the room. It means consistency, accountability, and being willing to step up even when things feel overwhelming. The support I've received has given me the confidence to dream big and develop the tools to work towards those dreams.” - Elizabeth Ngechu, Eastvale Stem Academy (eSTEM)

“I remember doubting my ability to perform in the classroom, but with the encouragement of my teachers and family, I learned to advocate for myself, ask for help, and trust that growth comes from discomfort.” - Natalia Perez, John F. Kennedy Middle College High School

“I have felt supported and encouraged every single step of the way as a student. I'm so thankful to be in such a positive and uplifting environment where my voice can be heard, to educate others, and to represent and be a voice for people who do not have the same opportunities to speak.” - Raegan Marie Moore, Lee V. Pollard High School

“Your struggles don't disqualify you from success and happiness. In fact, they shape you into somebody stronger, more compassionate, and more resilient than you've ever realized.” – Miranda Torres, Norco High School

In multiple regions around Riverside County, a variety of community partners, including chambers of commerce and community groups, regularly highlight students of the month at individual districts. For the second consecutive year, educators and staff members at each CNUSD high school will identify one outstanding senior as an honoree at each event. Recipients are selected based on how they embody character, integrity, a passion for learning, active involvement in school life, sports, and community service, or have displayed remarkable resilience in the face of life’s challenges while maintaining a commitment to education.

The January 2025-2026 Corona-Norco Unified Students of the Month are as follows:

• Valen Ng - Academy of Innovation
• Nimmer Kaur - Centennial High School
• Lara Randhawa - Corona High School
• Elizabeth Ngechu - Eastvale STEM Academy (eSTEM)
• Sydney Barlett - Eleanor Roosevelt High School
• Natalia Perez - John F. Kennedy Middle College High School
• Raegan Marie Moore - Lee V. Pollard High School
• Miranda Torres - Norco High School
• Alexis Guerrero - Orange Grove High School
• Nemat Gill - Santiago High School

The next CNUSD Student of the Month event is set for March 17, 2026, at Corona High School. In late March 2026, previous Student of the Month honorees can apply for the prestigious Student of the Year Award by submitting scholarship applications. Students of the Year will be chosen based on their outstanding academic achievements, active participation in high school life, or their inspiring journey of self-improvement and transformation. The Students of the Year will be honored on April 28, 2026. 

Platinum ($7,500 and up), gold ($5,000), silver ($3,000), bronze ($1,500), and table ($500) sponsorship opportunities are available for all events. Please contact Alejandra “Aly” Herrera, Community Engagement and Partnerships Representative, for additional information at aherrera@rcoe.us.

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.