Student, parent cited by migrant education group

Rick Monroe

Special to the Village News

Christian Sanchez, a senior at Fallbrook High School, has been selected Student of the Year for Migrant Education Region 9, representing San Diego and Orange counties.

The region's State Parent Advisory Council also recognized Gabriela Gomez, as the region's Parent of the Year. She is a representative and president of the parent advisory council at the Fallbrook Union High School District.

Both were recognized at the March 28 board meeting of the local high school board. Presenting the awards was Elisa Ayala, Migrant Education Region 9 senior director at the San Diego County Office of Education.

Although presented with many obstacles, Sanchez is an outstanding student who has demonstrated responsibility, hard work, and diligence, Ayala said. He has a 3.8 GPA while taking International Baccalaureate Math Applications/Honors and helping his family.

Sanchez was unable to attend the school board meeting, Ayala said, because he was working at a job to support his family. His parents and siblings have special needs.

"He has excelled in school, is focused on his goals, including earning a college degree in mathematics, and ensuring a better life for himself and his family," Ayala added.

Gomez is a leader and a role model in the community, Ayala said.

"Although she had no experience participating in school councils, she took it upon herself to learn about her children's schools and programs and how to effectively participate and lead," Ayala said. "She is always ready to volunteer and brings grace and humility to her work. She has served as the region's State Parent Advisory Council representative and is currently the president of both the regional parent advisory council and her local parent advisory council."

The Migrant Education Region 9 Program serves students and families in San Diego and Orange counties who face unique and multiple barriers to completing a high-quality education due to the economic necessity of moving to find work in agriculture.

"The Region 9 program services provide access and equitable opportunities, but this would not be successful without the hard work, drive, effort and exceptional resilience of the students and parents themselves," Ayala explained.

Honoring students, alumni, and parents for their outstanding accomplishments is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the award recipients and share their work with the community, she said.

"Our migrant families are no strangers to adversity," said Dr. Paul Gothold, San Diego County Superintendent of Schools. "Although the path is not often easy, they find incredible strength, determination, and resiliency to push on."