For students facing adversity, success isn’t just about perseverance—it’s about the people who stand beside them. With the encouragement of dedicated school staff, these students found the strength to keep going, even when the odds were against them.
Since 2005, the Stanislaus County Office of Education and the Association of California School Administrators Region 7 have used the Every Student Succeeding program to recognize students who have overcome challenges, celebrating their resilience and determination to push forward.
This year, Modesto City Schools nominated 14 students for recognition, and four were chosen to represent the district at the countywide ceremony held on March 11.
Meet the Nominees
Meet the Finalists
Fabian Rodriguez Melton – Shackelford Elementary School
Sixth grader Fabian has faced personal hardships, but he hasn’t faced them alone. His journey has been shaped by the support of his teachers and a team of staff members, including former Principal Sue McHann, current Principal Erica Del Toro, School Support Manager Maisie Rodas, teachers Joe Tornberg and Zaira Rosillo, and Campus Assistant Gladis Angulo.
Shackelford staff quickly recognized the challenges Fabian was facing and worked together to address them. Today, his nearly perfect attendance and growing confidence are proof of the power of a strong support system.
“We took a community approach, ensuring he had the right support in place,” said Tornberg, Fabian’s fourth-grade teacher. “It’s wonderful to see him thriving—he’s more outgoing, happier, and engaged in learning.”
For Fabian’s sixth-grade teacher, Zaira Rosillo, the small, daily interactions made all the difference.
“My daily check-ins helped build trust, and it was during these small moments that I saw Fabian open up and become more engaged,” she shared.
“Students facing significant challenges, whether academic, social, or personal, need strong relationships and tailored guidance to see their own capabilities,” Shackelford Principal Erica Del Toro expressed. “Building those relationships and providing extra encouragement can be the difference between a student feeling isolated and a student feeling empowered.”
Esmeralda Zepeda – Modesto High School
When Esmeralda walked into Modesto High as a sophomore, she found herself surrounded by staff who believed in her potential. Modesto High Counselor Carmen Sanchez became more than just an academic guide—she was a constant source of encouragement, reminding Esmeralda that she was capable of more than she imagined.
“She showed me I could be the best version of myself,” Esmeralda said. “She would check up on me during the most challenging times in my life.”
One of her teachers, Andrea Pegarella, also made a lasting impact, always offering support when Esmeralda needed it most.
“She would cheer me on and support me,” Esmeralda shared. “She always made sure I knew I wasn’t alone.”
That support extended into her senior year, and Esmeralda remains deeply grateful for the educators who never let her give up.
Abel Barajas – Downey High School
For Downey High senior Abel Barajas, music wasn’t just a series of notes—it was his rhythm through life. Downey’s Band Director, Alexis True, taught him that no matter how tough life got, he could always find strength in the people around him.
That lesson hit home when Abel lost his father. Less than 24 hours after his passing, he showed up to perform with his band family because he knew they were counting on him.
“Ms. True showed me that no matter how hard life beats you down, you can always get back up,” Abel said. “She was one of the only teachers I had a true and genuine bond with—I saw her as a mother figure.”
But band wasn’t the only place Abel found support. Downey Assistant Principal Patrick Rodden refused to overlook what others might not see. He kept reaching out, even when Abel insisted that he was fine. The truth was, he wasn’t. One day, overwhelmed with grief, Abel ran to Mr. Rodden’s office in tears.
“I interrupted his lunch, but he was kind enough to let me in,” Abel said. “I started bawling my eyes out uncontrollably. He understood what I was feeling and told me about his own hardships. He made sure I knew I wasn’t alone.”
Abel’s support system extended beyond music and administration. His 11th-grade history teacher, Patrick Looker, provided steady guidance when Abel needed it most, while the Downey High Agriculture staff—Michael Schilperoort, Megan Rivera, and Krista Salyer—helped create a community that lifted him up beyond the classroom. They weren’t just teachers; they were mentors, friends, and trusted advisors who believed in him every step of the way and refused to let him fall.
Jennyfer Merino Rivera – Gregori High School
Jennyfer’s story highlights the power of resilience and support in the face of adversity. After transferring to Gregori for her senior year with only 65 credits, she faced overwhelming challenges, including social anxiety, a language barrier, and the struggle to attend school regularly. Her personal fears often kept her from fully engaging with school, but through it all, she never gave up on her dream of graduating.
"Throughout this journey, my teacher, Ms. Boldon, has been my rock," Jennyfer said. "She made me feel supported and believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. Her encouragement helped me push past my fears and focus on my future."
After enrolling in the G230 Academy, Jennyfer turned things around. In just one semester, she earned 85 credits, a remarkable feat that has her on track to graduate with her class, without needing a fifth year. With her father’s pride and encouragement motivating her, Jennyfer is now looking ahead to a future in the Army, ready to take the next step in her journey.
More Than a Recognition—A Testament to the Power of Support
For Fabian, Esmeralda, Abel, Jennyfer, and so many others, success wasn’t just about perseverance; it was about the teachers, counselors, and administrators who saw their struggles, believed in their potential, and refused to let them walk alone.