Drew, Eskue, Stephens, and Aquino honored

Debbie Ramsey

Managing Editor

Kaylie Drew, Jackie Eskue, and Devin Stephens of Fallbrook Union High School (FUHS), and Anelo Aquino of Ivy High School were celebrated as the December Fallbrook Community Students of the Month at a special breakfast held Dec. 1 at Fallbrook Golf Club’s Hukilau Restaurant.

The four young women were selected based on their academic performance, community service work, involvement in school, and other notable achievements.

Breakfast emcee Lynne Grantham began the morning of recognition by introducing Karl Fekete, representative of American Legion Post 365, who presented each of the students with a personalized engraved medal depicting the Lamp of Knowledge.Kaylie Drew was chosen to receive the Student of the Month honor based on the recommendation of FUHS Associated Student Body (ASB) Director Mike Lilly. Lilly, who was unable to attend the event, was represented by FUHS Assistant Principal John Hayek.

“Not only is Kaylie a fine athlete, she is a fine leader,” said Hayek. “She is an individual who leads by example and has earned many honors playing softball. Next year she will be playing for the University of Hawaii.”

Drew holds the position of senior class president and has led the FUHS varsity girls’ softball team for four years as captain. She is also captain of the varsity girls basketball team, an active participant in charitable events held by 2K4Kids, and a member of National Charity League, San Luis Rey Chapter.

“I am really grateful to have grown up in Fallbrook; it has allowed me to meet a diverse group of people and receive many opportunities” said Drew. “I want to also thank Mr. Lilly for nominating me for this honor.”

Jackie Eskue was selected as a Student of the Month based on the recommendation of FUHS field hockey coach Kirstin Mueller. Since Mueller was unable to attend the breakfast, John Hayek reviewed Eskue’s accomplishments.

“Jackie is a really great person on and off the field,” said Hayek. “She is a great student and volunteers her time with the junior high school field hockey program. This year Jackie was awarded one of the CIF Sportsmanship awards.”

Eskue, who has earned berths on prestigious regional field hockey teams, is currently being recruited by a variety of colleges as a student athlete. She has served as one of the FUHS field hockey team captains, is a member of the school’s Key Club, and has been an eight-year member of Girl Scouts. She has also volunteered her time to Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce activities

“I want to say thank you to the members of the committee of the Student of the Month program and my parents,” said Eskue. “My senior year is going great, especially in winning CIF!”

Devin Stephens, nominated by FUHS teacher Dave Evans, also earned the Student of the Month honor.

“Devin is not a student of mine, but she definitely crossed my radar,” explained Evans. “On her own volition, Devin decided she wanted to be a mentor to <another student>. She ensured that a fine young man got her help on a daily basis. In observing Devin’s actions, she has inspired me to be a better teacher, to give of myself more.”

Stephens was described as a person who puts quality effort into her academics as well as extra curricular activities and is willing to provide exemplary service to others. Evans said she is an “outstanding citizen.”

“I really appreciate this recognition,” said Stephens. “I enjoy school and it is just a part of me. I want to thank my family for everything they’ve done. I plan on attending a community college and then transferring to a four-year university.”

Anelo Aquino was recommended for the Student of the Month honor by Ivy High School teacher Rhya Cawley.

“<Anelo> has won the hearts of all her teachers,” said Cawley. “All of us feel Anelo has been a pleasure to have in class. She has terrific intelligence and charm.”

Cawley said Aquino “excels” in her school work, has perfect school attendance, is a teacher’s assistant, and volunteers at her church. It was noted that although Aquino was behind in credits when she entered Ivy High School, she had worked hard and will graduate three months early.

“Ever since I was little, I knew what I wanted to do but I got lost along the way,” said Aquino. “Then I got a chance to come to Ivy. I am very happy I had that opportunity. I want to thank my family and my teachers.”

Each student honored received a gift bag filled with numerous donations from local merchants and organizations.

Sponsors of the breakfast included the Angel Society of Fallbrook, Dr. Daniel Flores, Dr. Richard Goble, the Fallbrook High School PTSA, Fallbrook Republican Women Federated, and 2K4Kids.

To nominate a high school student for this honor, contact Kim Olsen at (760) 723-8400.

To comment on this story online, visit http://www.thevillagenews.com.