Brower, Maratsos, Perez, Vandivort honored at event

Kelly Brower, Maggie Maratsos and Kevin Vandivort of Fallbrook High School and Berenice Perez of Oasis High School were lauded as outstanding students at the Fallbrook Community Student of the Month breakfast held November 1 at Fallbrook Golf Club’s Hukilau Restaurant.

Now celebrating its 11th year, the Student of the Month program has honored more than 350 exemplary high school students.

Kelly Brower was selected for the honor as a result of a nomination by Fallbrook High teacher Sharon Griener.

“Kelly is self-directed, polite, respectful and motivated,” said Griener. “He is a fourth-year American Sign Language student who was so focused that he skipped the entire third year. He has a heart of gold and an infectious personality. I am honored and proud to be his teacher; he is a star.”

Brower was described by Principal Rod King as a warm, passionate, caring friend to others who truly has a “heart for God.”

“I would like to thank my teacher, Ms. Griener; she has shown and taught me about student relationships,” says Brower. “She is a great friend and has always has been there for me.”

A member of the Fallbrook High wrestling team, Brower plans to pursue a career in American Sign Language/Deaf Studies.

Fallbrook High staff member Connie Fellios honored Maggie Maratsos as a Student of the Month.

“Maggie is a dynamic representative of the Future Farmers of America,” said Fellios. “She recently went to Washington, DC, as a delegate. She has received state honors and is a recipient of the State Degree. She is resilient, down to earth, wholesome and articulate.”

Maratsos is also a member of the Fallbrook High School Marching Warriors, in which she plays several different instruments. She has a rigorous Advanced Placement schedule and is a member of the Leadership and Debate Team.

“I never expected this great honor,” Maratsos said. “Thank you. I would also like to thank my mom, step-dad and grandmother for being there for me.”

Maratsos’ future plans include attending Cal-Poly San Luis Obispo, where she plans to pursue studies in the field of agriculture. She says it is possible she might one day apply to teach at Fallbrook High School.

Kevin Vandivort was recommended for Student of the Month by Fallbrook High teacher Dorothy Hartford.

“Kevin is a remarkable young man who puts others first,” Hartford said. “He is an outstanding scholar, has been on the Principal’s Honor Roll and carries a 4.0 grade point average.

“Kevin never stops smiling and has great determination. He is truly an amazing young man – a breath of fresh air.”

Vandivort has been on the Fallbrook High School baseball team for four years. He is a member of Warriors for Christ and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Additionally, Vandivort serves as president of the Fallbrook High School branch of Schools for Schools, a program of the nonprofit Invisible Children. Last year he was instrumental in raising $15,000 for the organization; this year he has set a goal of $30,000.

“I would like to thank Mrs. Hartford, my coach, my parents, my friends and the community for this honor,” said Vandivort. “My plans are to attend the University of Southern California. I am uncertain as to what my major will be.”

Berenice Perez was named Student of the Month by Oasis High School teacher Linda Poznanter.

“Berenice is well-behaved, dedicated and devoted mom to her 2-year-old daughter, Viviana,” said Poznanter. “She has chosen the right path and is working hard to prove it. She is very involved in her church; she is a nurturer.”

Perez works with the elderly at Silvergate while raising a young child and keeping up with her studies. She is described as a hard worker who would like to pursue a career as a medical assistant.

“I am happy to be here,” said Perez. “Thank you for this honor.”

Friends and family of the honorees, as well as members of the business and service communities and representatives of elected officials, attended the prestigious event and provided certificates of achievement and gifts to the students.

The Fallbrook Community Student of the Month program is organized by a committee of the same name and is funded by numerous local businesses and organizations.