Two outstanding high school seniors from Hemet Unified School District have earned recognition in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program! Anum Firoz from Western Center Academy and Greydon Gudat from Tahquitz High School distinguished themselves among more than one million students nationwide who entered the competition based on their PSAT scores.
Both students advanced in the selection process, earning a place among the nation's 50,000 highest scorers. Greydon Gudat was among approximately 34,000 students nationwide to receive a Letter of Commendation in recognition of his exceptional academic performance. While Commended Students do not advance to the semi-finalist round, this prestigious recognition highlights Greydon's academic achievement, and some Commended Students may qualify for additional scholarships offered through program sponsors.
Anum Firoz has advanced even further, earning a place among approximately 16,000 National Merit Semifinalists nationwide. She will continue in the competition for the opportunity to earn a National Merit Scholarship.
Hemet Unified School District proudly congratulates both students on their remarkable accomplishments and celebrates their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence!
Both students advanced in the selection process, earning a place among the nation's 50,000 highest scorers. Greydon Gudat was among approximately 34,000 students nationwide to receive a Letter of Commendation in recognition of his exceptional academic performance. While Commended Students do not advance to the semi-finalist round, this prestigious recognition highlights Greydon's academic achievement, and some Commended Students may qualify for additional scholarships offered through program sponsors.
Anum Firoz has advanced even further, earning a place among approximately 16,000 National Merit Semifinalists nationwide. She will continue in the competition for the opportunity to earn a National Merit Scholarship.
Hemet Unified School District proudly congratulates both students on their remarkable accomplishments and celebrates their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence!
Hemet Elementary is proud to recognize Learning Improvement Site Support Specialist Jeff Koenig as its Employee of Excellence!
Jeff Koenig joined Hemet Unified School District in 2019, and his dedication and visionary leadership have made an immense impact at Hemet Elementary this year. Jeff joined Hemet El this year as our Learning Improvement Site Support Specialist, and has drawn on his rich experience as a math instructional coach, conference presenter, and administrative leader to align with HUSD’s mission to “Embrace, Educate, and Empower.”
He is driving key initiatives that elevate student achievement and support teacher growth, including campuswide PDSA cycles, a comprehensive Math MTSS framework, streamlined assessment re-engagement packages, and engaging TK–5 practices like Building Thinking Classrooms and lesson gamification. He even directly leads 5th-grade Tier 3 math interventions to expand support across all grade levels.
One of the things we appreciate most about Jeff is his willingness to roll up his sleeves and provide support wherever it is needed. We are so fortunate to have Jeff Koenig on our team, and celebrating his efforts is a wonderful way to acknowledge his transformational impact on our school community.
Go Eagles!
Jeff Koenig joined Hemet Unified School District in 2019, and his dedication and visionary leadership have made an immense impact at Hemet Elementary this year. Jeff joined Hemet El this year as our Learning Improvement Site Support Specialist, and has drawn on his rich experience as a math instructional coach, conference presenter, and administrative leader to align with HUSD’s mission to “Embrace, Educate, and Empower.”
He is driving key initiatives that elevate student achievement and support teacher growth, including campuswide PDSA cycles, a comprehensive Math MTSS framework, streamlined assessment re-engagement packages, and engaging TK–5 practices like Building Thinking Classrooms and lesson gamification. He even directly leads 5th-grade Tier 3 math interventions to expand support across all grade levels.
One of the things we appreciate most about Jeff is his willingness to roll up his sleeves and provide support wherever it is needed. We are so fortunate to have Jeff Koenig on our team, and celebrating his efforts is a wonderful way to acknowledge his transformational impact on our school community.
Go Eagles!
November’s Harvest of the Month is limes! This month, HUSD Nutrition Services is highlighting this refreshing favorite that’s packed with water, vitamin C, and other nutrients that help fuel growing students.
Limes will be served FREE with school lunch throughout November! 🍉
Keep an eye out for Harvest of the Month and encourage your student to give it a try!
Limes will be served FREE with school lunch throughout November! 🍉
Keep an eye out for Harvest of the Month and encourage your student to give it a try!
Hemet Unified deeply appreciates the generosity and commitment of our valued community partners. Your ongoing support plays a vital role in enriching educational experiences and empowering every student to thrive. #TheHUSDway #HUSD #HemetUnified #Generosity
Please join us in congratulating Jennie Lopez Contreras, Supervision Aide, for being named Hemet Dual Language Academy's Employee of Excellence !
We are proud to recognize Jennie Lopez, our dedicated Supervision Aide, as our Employee of Excellence! Since joining our school, Jennie has taken on a strong leadership role by mentoring new team members, driving improvement through PDSA cycles, and boosting student spirit with creative lunchtime challenges and incentives.
Jennie works hard every day to keep our campus safe, warm, and welcoming, always supporting our students with empathy and inspiring her fellow colleagues. Thank you for your amazing dedication, Jennie!
We are proud to recognize Jennie Lopez, our dedicated Supervision Aide, as our Employee of Excellence! Since joining our school, Jennie has taken on a strong leadership role by mentoring new team members, driving improvement through PDSA cycles, and boosting student spirit with creative lunchtime challenges and incentives.
Jennie works hard every day to keep our campus safe, warm, and welcoming, always supporting our students with empathy and inspiring her fellow colleagues. Thank you for your amazing dedication, Jennie!
Rancho Viejo Middle School is proud to recognize ASUIS and Athletics Director Brandon Berry as an Employee of Excellence!
Mr. Berry is a champion for every student on campus, with a special dedication to lifting up those who are furthest from opportunity. As a key member of our support team and leader of the athletics program, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our students' social and emotional needs are met.
What truly sets Mr. Berry apart is his personal connection to our school community—he knows nearly every student by name and understands their unique stories. Every morning, he greets students with warmth and energy, making a deliberate effort to start the day with a smile for our students in the Moderate to Severe program. Beloved by students and deeply appreciated by his colleagues, Mr. Berry works tirelessly to ensure every single person feels seen, valued, and supported.
Thank you, Mr. Berry, for being a champion for everyone at Rancho Viejo and for making our school a welcoming, inclusive place for all!
Mr. Berry is a champion for every student on campus, with a special dedication to lifting up those who are furthest from opportunity. As a key member of our support team and leader of the athletics program, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our students' social and emotional needs are met.
What truly sets Mr. Berry apart is his personal connection to our school community—he knows nearly every student by name and understands their unique stories. Every morning, he greets students with warmth and energy, making a deliberate effort to start the day with a smile for our students in the Moderate to Severe program. Beloved by students and deeply appreciated by his colleagues, Mr. Berry works tirelessly to ensure every single person feels seen, valued, and supported.
Thank you, Mr. Berry, for being a champion for everyone at Rancho Viejo and for making our school a welcoming, inclusive place for all!
Yesterday, West Valley and Tahquitz High Schools went head-to-head in an exciting boys varsity water polo match! Both teams showcased great teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship as they gave it their all in the pool. It was a great opportunity to see our student-athletes compete and represent their schools with pride. Congratulations to the Mustangs on their win, and great job to both teams for their hard work and effort!
Today, Tahquitz High School hosted its annual College and Career Fair, giving more than 1,800 students the opportunity to explore a wide variety of college, trade school, military, and career pathways!
Students connected with representatives from local and national organizations, including military branches, universities such as Stanford University and colleges from as far away as New York, and trade-specific programs in fields such as welding and architecture.
More than 450 seniors attended today’s fair, gaining valuable information and resources to help guide their next steps toward college, career, and life.
Great job Titans, for providing students with opportunities to explore their futures!
Students connected with representatives from local and national organizations, including military branches, universities such as Stanford University and colleges from as far away as New York, and trade-specific programs in fields such as welding and architecture.
More than 450 seniors attended today’s fair, gaining valuable information and resources to help guide their next steps toward college, career, and life.
Great job Titans, for providing students with opportunities to explore their futures!
Congratulations to Hemet High’s Girls Flag Football team on an exciting 19–6 overtime victory over Hillcrest! Freshman Delilah O’Neal scored the go-ahead touchdown, and senior Ruby Gonzalez Horta sealed the win with an interception returned for a touchdown. The Lady Bulldogs team now has a 4-2 league record. Way to go, Bulldogs!
Hemet Unified deeply appreciates the generosity and commitment of our valued community partners. Your ongoing support plays a vital role in enriching educational experiences and empowering every student to thrive. #TheHUSDway #HUSD #HemetUnified #Generosity
Harmony Elementary School is proud to recognize the Lunchtime Supervision Team as Employees of Excellence!
We are proud to recognize Harmony’s Lunchtime Supervision Team for this month’s Employees of Excellence!
Rain or shine, this incredible team consistently goes above and beyond during lunchtime and lunch recess. While their top priority is keeping our students safe, their impact reaches far beyond basic supervision. Through their unwavering diligence, proactive support, and genuine care, they have created a warm, inclusive, and positive environment where every child feels seen and valued.
By taking the time to connect with students individually, they foster meaningful relationships and help build a compassionate, connected community right on the playground.
Thank you, Lunchtime Supervision Team, for your dedication, kindness, and heart—you make Harmony a better place every single day!
We are proud to recognize Harmony’s Lunchtime Supervision Team for this month’s Employees of Excellence!
Rain or shine, this incredible team consistently goes above and beyond during lunchtime and lunch recess. While their top priority is keeping our students safe, their impact reaches far beyond basic supervision. Through their unwavering diligence, proactive support, and genuine care, they have created a warm, inclusive, and positive environment where every child feels seen and valued.
By taking the time to connect with students individually, they foster meaningful relationships and help build a compassionate, connected community right on the playground.
Thank you, Lunchtime Supervision Team, for your dedication, kindness, and heart—you make Harmony a better place every single day!
Idyllwild School is proud to recognize Nutrition Manager Sonya Dravenstatt as an Employee of Excellence!
For 25 years, Idyllwild School Nutrition Manager Sonya Dravenstatt has been a heart and soul pillar of our school community. Known affectionately by students as "the lunch lady," Sonya brings warmth, a bright smile, and an infectious positive energy to the cafeteria every single day.
Her commitment to our school extends far beyond meal service—she has served on the Wellness Committee and was an active PTA member, always advocating for the well-being and happiness of our kids. A true team player with an exceptional work ethic, Sonya consistently earns the highest ratings on kitchen inspections while keeping her environment welcoming, safe, and fun.
We are deeply grateful for her hard work, her unwavering dedication, and the genuine love she shows our students each and every day. Sonya truly embodies what it means to be an Employee of Excellence!
For 25 years, Idyllwild School Nutrition Manager Sonya Dravenstatt has been a heart and soul pillar of our school community. Known affectionately by students as "the lunch lady," Sonya brings warmth, a bright smile, and an infectious positive energy to the cafeteria every single day.
Her commitment to our school extends far beyond meal service—she has served on the Wellness Committee and was an active PTA member, always advocating for the well-being and happiness of our kids. A true team player with an exceptional work ethic, Sonya consistently earns the highest ratings on kitchen inspections while keeping her environment welcoming, safe, and fun.
We are deeply grateful for her hard work, her unwavering dedication, and the genuine love she shows our students each and every day. Sonya truly embodies what it means to be an Employee of Excellence!
Diamond Valley Middle School is proud to recognize School Counselor Che Scott as an Employee of Excellence.
Now in his fifth year at Diamond Valley Middle School, Che Scott is a cornerstone of our campus and a true embodiment of the heart and soul of DVMS. Whether he is thoughtfully crafting the Master Schedule, serving as an Admin Designee, acting as our HTA representative, or stepping in to lead lunch supervision and assist with IEP meetings, Mr. Scott approaches every task with exceptional work ethic and genuine warmth. He has cultivated deep, meaningful relationships across every corner of our staff; from teachers and administrators to custodians, librarians, CSOs, and nutrition team members, consistently building bridges and supporting those around him.
For our students, Mr. Scott goes above and beyond to foster an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and inspired to succeed. He intentionally develops Tier 1–3 interventions, leading initiatives like lunch intramural sports and campus activities that boost attendance and build a lasting sense of belonging. His tailored support deeply impacts our Foster and McKinney-Vento students, students with IEPs and 504s, and every student group on campus. Equally skilled in partnering with families, Mr. Scott meets parents with empathy and care, jumping into meetings to put concerns at ease and ensure families feel heard.
By meeting every individual, student, parent, or staff member, exactly where they are, Mr. Scott exemplifies the Diamond MIND (motivating, igniting, nurturing, and dreaming big) and HUSD’s commitment to Embrace, Educate, and Empower every student, every day. DVMS would not be the same without his dedication, leadership, and heart!
Now in his fifth year at Diamond Valley Middle School, Che Scott is a cornerstone of our campus and a true embodiment of the heart and soul of DVMS. Whether he is thoughtfully crafting the Master Schedule, serving as an Admin Designee, acting as our HTA representative, or stepping in to lead lunch supervision and assist with IEP meetings, Mr. Scott approaches every task with exceptional work ethic and genuine warmth. He has cultivated deep, meaningful relationships across every corner of our staff; from teachers and administrators to custodians, librarians, CSOs, and nutrition team members, consistently building bridges and supporting those around him.
For our students, Mr. Scott goes above and beyond to foster an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and inspired to succeed. He intentionally develops Tier 1–3 interventions, leading initiatives like lunch intramural sports and campus activities that boost attendance and build a lasting sense of belonging. His tailored support deeply impacts our Foster and McKinney-Vento students, students with IEPs and 504s, and every student group on campus. Equally skilled in partnering with families, Mr. Scott meets parents with empathy and care, jumping into meetings to put concerns at ease and ensure families feel heard.
By meeting every individual, student, parent, or staff member, exactly where they are, Mr. Scott exemplifies the Diamond MIND (motivating, igniting, nurturing, and dreaming big) and HUSD’s commitment to Embrace, Educate, and Empower every student, every day. DVMS would not be the same without his dedication, leadership, and heart!
Hemet Unified deeply appreciates the generosity and commitment of our valued community partners. Your ongoing support plays a vital role in enriching educational experiences and empowering every student to thrive. #TheHUSDway #HUSD #HemetUnified #Generosity
Hamilton Elementary Proudly Recognizes Montserrat Avelar Roldan, TK Instructional Assistant as its Employee of Excellence!
Montserrat Avelar Roldan has been a valued member of the Hamilton Elementary family for four years as a TK Instructional Assistant. Montseratt exemplifies excellence through her dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to our school community.
In addition to creating a safe, warm, and engaging learning environment where our youngest Bobcats thrive, she actively supports our families by serving as ELAC Representative and as a past ELAC President. Mrs. Montse consistently goes above and beyond, lifting spirits with her positive attitude, celebrating each student's individuality, and inspiring students and staff alike with the heart, joy, and dedication she brings to Hamilton every single day.
She is an inspiration to us all, and exemplifies her motto: “Celebrate each child’s individuality and empower them to be exactly who they are.”
Montserrat Avelar Roldan has been a valued member of the Hamilton Elementary family for four years as a TK Instructional Assistant. Montseratt exemplifies excellence through her dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to our school community.
In addition to creating a safe, warm, and engaging learning environment where our youngest Bobcats thrive, she actively supports our families by serving as ELAC Representative and as a past ELAC President. Mrs. Montse consistently goes above and beyond, lifting spirits with her positive attitude, celebrating each student's individuality, and inspiring students and staff alike with the heart, joy, and dedication she brings to Hamilton every single day.
She is an inspiration to us all, and exemplifies her motto: “Celebrate each child’s individuality and empower them to be exactly who they are.”
Tahquitz and West Valley’s Varsity Girls Golf teams faced off in a 9-hole match that ended in a victory for Tahquitz! Both teams played a great match, showcasing excellent skill, focus, and sportsmanship throughout the course. It was a great opportunity for our student-athletes to compete, represent their schools, and continue building their skills on the green. Well done to both the Titans and the Mustangs! ⛳👏
Last week, Cottonwood hosted its “Dunk the Principal” fundraiser, organized by the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)!
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the event a success. Funds raised will go directly toward supporting Cottonwood students and enhancing their school experience!
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the event a success. Funds raised will go directly toward supporting Cottonwood students and enhancing their school experience!
Today was a special day for Hemet Unified as we officially celebrated the opening of Pleasant Valley Elementary School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony! ✂️🎀
We were honored to celebrate alongside members of the HUSD Board of Trustees and Cabinet, educational and community partners, local dignitaries, builders and project partners, staff, students, and many of the individuals who helped bring Pleasant Valley to life.
The morning was made even more special by our students, who showcased their talents through several wonderful performances and welcomed guests with student-led tours of their beautiful new campus.
Thank you to everyone who had a hand in bringing Pleasant Valley Elementary to our community—from the planning and design to construction, preparation, and opening its doors to students. We are excited for all the learning, memories, and opportunities that will take place here for generations to come!
🎥 Watch the livestream of today’s celebration here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=474&v=v2NX2V7pmKs
#TheHUSDway #HemetUSD #PleasantValleyElementary #EveryStudentEveryDay
We were honored to celebrate alongside members of the HUSD Board of Trustees and Cabinet, educational and community partners, local dignitaries, builders and project partners, staff, students, and many of the individuals who helped bring Pleasant Valley to life.
The morning was made even more special by our students, who showcased their talents through several wonderful performances and welcomed guests with student-led tours of their beautiful new campus.
Thank you to everyone who had a hand in bringing Pleasant Valley Elementary to our community—from the planning and design to construction, preparation, and opening its doors to students. We are excited for all the learning, memories, and opportunities that will take place here for generations to come!
🎥 Watch the livestream of today’s celebration here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=474&v=v2NX2V7pmKs
#TheHUSDway #HemetUSD #PleasantValleyElementary #EveryStudentEveryDay
Hemet Unified deeply appreciates the generosity and commitment of our valued community partners. Your ongoing support plays a vital role in enriching educational experiences and empowering every student to thrive. #TheHUSDway #HUSD #HemetUnified #Generosity
Fruitvale Elementary is proud to recognize Diana Bonilla, Attendance Secretary as its Employee of Excellence!
Diana is an absolute powerhouse who brings hard work and dedication to our school every single day. Whether she’s keeping our attendance running smoothly or seamlessly stepping up to cover the office manager role, she handles every challenge with grace, skill, and efficiency.
Beyond her impressive work ethic, Diana is the true highlight of our front office. Her positive energy sets the tone for our staff, students, and families the moment they walk through the doors. Fruitvale simply would not be the same without her.
Thank you, Diana, for everything you do to keep our school shining.
Diana is an absolute powerhouse who brings hard work and dedication to our school every single day. Whether she’s keeping our attendance running smoothly or seamlessly stepping up to cover the office manager role, she handles every challenge with grace, skill, and efficiency.
Beyond her impressive work ethic, Diana is the true highlight of our front office. Her positive energy sets the tone for our staff, students, and families the moment they walk through the doors. Fruitvale simply would not be the same without her.
Thank you, Diana, for everything you do to keep our school shining.
