Honors given to Mercado, Avila, McCaffrey, Martinez

Ismael Mercado of Ivy High School and Crystal Avila, Haley McCaffrey, and Eydit Martinez of Fallbrook Union High School were celebrated as the Fallbrook Community Students of the Month for January at a special breakfast event held Jan. 9 at the Fallbrook Community Center.

Fallbrook Union High School District superintendent Dr. Dale Mitchell greeted those assembled at the event and stated, “We are delighted to be here to celebrate the achievements of these students.”

Students are selected for the honor as a result of outstanding achievements in academics, community volunteerism and involvement, and being viewed as role models on campus.

Representatives of American Legion Post 365, Frank Larkin and Karl Fekete, presented the first awards by giving each student a personalized Lamp of Knowledge medal.

Ismael Mercado was nominated for the Student of the Month honor by Ivy High teacher Amie Macbeth.

“Ismael had fallen behind in credits at Fallbrook High School when he came to Ivy,” explained Macbeth. “He quickly realized his potential and turned that around at Ivy. He is now going back to Fallbrook High and will graduate with his class.” Macbeth described Mercado as “very diligent” and a “fine, fine young man.” Mercado is a member of the varsity soccer team and does weight-lifting. He has also served as a classroom mentor at Ivy High.

Mercado responded to the accolades. “I want to give thanks to the student of the month committee, the sponsors, and community members for this honor.” He said his future plans include going on to community college, then San Diego State University, where he wishes to study sports medicine.

Crystal Avila was recommended for the Student of the Month honor by the counseling department staff at Fallbrook High School, which she assists.

“Crystal is a gem; a joy; a great role model for all her peers at Fallbrook High School,” said Peggy Hukill, who represented the counseling department at the breakfast. “She has a very positive demeanor. We are fortunate to have her represent the counseling department and especially proud to have her as a student at Fallbrook High School.” Avila was described by her family as a “hard worker, sincere, trustworthy, respectful, and highly self-motivated.” She has been involved in the sport of lacrosse and is said to love surfing.

“I want to thank the counseling staff for nominating me for Student of the Month,” said Avila. “I also want to thank the committee for this wonderful breakfast and my parents for supporting me every step of the way.” Avila said after graduation she plans on attending college and majoring in biology.

“Then I plan on going to medical school and becoming an anesthesiologist,” she said.

Haley McCaffrey was honored as a Student of the Month based on the recommendation of Fallbrook High School English teacher Kathy Beal.

“Haley’s reputation precedes her,” said Beal. “She is the real thing; some kids do extra for certain reasons, but Haley is motivated by something inside her that is beautiful. She goes above and beyond; is compassionate, and highly intelligent.” Beal said McCaffrey is very involved with her church and is “a young lady who does what she believes; she is a humble spirit.”

“I want to thank Ms. Beal,” said McCaffrey. “I’m very humbled by this and ecstatic. I want to thank my parents for allowing me to be me and I want to thank the sponsors of this breakfast for putting this on.” McCaffrey said her future plan is to become a teacher to either second or fourth grade students.

“I plan to go to a community college, then on to Cal State San Marcos; meanwhile I will teach at my church,” said McCaffrey.

Eydit Martinez was selected as a Student of the Month based on a nomination by special education teacher Tom Elling.

“Eydit is in a special program at Fallbrook High,” explained Elling. “She is a very hard worker and always comes to school each day with a big smile on her face. She is one of our best workers.”

“What sets Eydit apart is how helpful she is,” he added. “She is especially helpful to new students in the program and helps them adjust. She has a very gentle way about her. She is a very special person in a very special program.”

Martinez’ father, in addressing the crowd, said his daughter is also very helpful at home, especially with her toddler-aged brother. Martinez, who is very shy, told the audience “Thank you.”

Each of the four students received many certificates of recognition from elected officials and organizations at the event, in addition to many gifts.

The Fallbrook Student of the Month breakfast is funded by generous local businesses and organizations, including Major Market, Pedro’s Tacos, Robert P. Mohr D.D.S./M.S., Fallbrook PTSA, Law Offices of Faunce, Singer & Oatman, Fallbrook Vintage Car Club, and Sheri’s Flowers.

To nominate an FUHSD high school student for this honor, email [email protected].