Schools

January Murrieta Students of the Month Announced

The students' accomplishments and goals are shared below.

Six local high school seniors were honored Thursday as part of the Murrieta Valley Chamber of Commerce High School Student of the Month Recognition Program.

The January students of the month—shown in the attached photo, from left to right—are: Helena Bilbrey (Murrieta Valley High School); Garrett Hayden (Calvary Murrieta Christian High School);  Luther Castro (Oak Grove Center); Paige Miller (River Springs Charter School); Andy Kim (Vista Murrieta High School); and Brooke Clark (Murrieta Mesa High School).

Pictured with the students, from left to right, are: Patrick Kelley (MVUSD Superintendent); Margaret Jones (Chair); Patrick Ellis (CEO, Murrieta Chamber of Commerce) and Jennifer Mejares-Pham (Coordinator).

Find out what's happening in Murrietawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The students’ accomplishments and goals are shared below:

Murrieta Valley High School Senior Helena Bilbrey is one of the top-ranked students in her class. She has received an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point where she plans to study psychology and international politics. She plans to serve in the Army as an officer and pursue a career in military intelligence. Helena is in the International Baccalaureate program and she is an officer in the International Baccalaureate Club. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. A competitive swimmer, she swims three hours a day, six days a week. Helena is known for being diligent, dedicated and her persistence and commitment drive her to achieve her goals. She is also humble, gracious and she cares about other people.

Find out what's happening in Murrietawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Calvary Murrieta Christian High School Senior Garrett Hayden is ASB treasurer, a member of National Honor Society and Captain of his school’s varsity soccer team. He has applied to Liberty University, Grand Canyon University and to the University of Connecticut. He plans to go into sports management. Garrett is a leader on campus and he is known for serving others and for his humble, kind spirit. Garrett has gone on mission trips and he wants to life a life where he can have a positive impact the world.

Oak Grove Center Senior Luther Castro came from inner city Los Angeles and his remarkable ability to transform his life has inspired his teachers. Luther has demonstrated his resilience, courage and character. He has a big heart for others which can be seen through his involvement in ASB, the Interact Club and his leadership at school. He has served as a mentor to children with autism and he plans to go to college and work with kids who are struggling to overcome challenges in their home life.

River Springs Charter School Senior Paige Miller is known for being driven, organized and caring and she wants to be a veterinarian. She plans to attend Mount San Jacinto Community College then transfer to UC Davis and earn a doctorate in veterinary medicine. Paige completed an academy internship program which helped her choose her future career path.

Vista Murrieta High School Senior Andy Kim is ASB President this year and he is the top-ranked student in his class. He is Vice President of the school’s BBC Club and he plays varsity tennis. Andy is a leader at his school and he has over 400 hours of community service. Andy plans to go to Columbia University and in the future he would like to go into public service. Andy came to the United States from Korea when he was 2 years old. He has a heart for people and he is known as a kind and generous friend.

Murrieta Mesa High School Senior Brooke Clark is in Model United Nation, National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation. As President of the school’s Renaissance Club she has been involved in organizing recognition for students’ academic achievement. This year she put together a visual and performing arts gallery highlights on the school’s website. She also runs track and cross country. Brooke hopes to attend Brigham Young University and study economics. In the future she envisions a career working for a non-profit organization that specializes in medicine or education in developing countries. Brooke is disciplined, focused, determined and prepared beyond belief.   

To learn more about the Student of the Month Program, contact Sally A. Myers, founder at 951-506-8024.

For information about sponsoring the program, contact Margaret D. Jones, Chair of the Murrieta Student of the Month Program at 951-677-4856.

“The SOM Program greatly appreciates your support and interest in the lives of our young people,” said Karen Parris, publicity coordinator.

Parris can be reached at 951-696-1600, ext. 1022 with any additional questions.


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