"Live Like Micah" Scholarship Award Recipients

Chula Vista High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Dahlia Anaya. Dahlia is attending UCLA in the Fall of 2025. 

Below are a few responses from Dahlia's nominator, 

Mrs. Lindsee Tauck:

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kind-hearted. H

Chula Vista High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Dahlia Anaya. Dahlia is attending UCLA in the Fall of 2025. 

Below are a few responses from Dahlia's nominator, 

Mrs. Lindsee Tauck:

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kind-hearted. How does this student treat others with kindness and compassion?  What does this student do that makes others feel good about themselves? 

"Finn is a genuine and kind-hearted person who goes out of her way to help others. As far as Quiz Bowl, she checks in on teammates and ensures that they are welcomed. She also serves as a student tutor in the morning and advocates for students who need help in physics and math.  She is very sociable and respectful to both students and staff, and volunteers to complete tasks that are not her responsibility, such as helping out underclassmen during Quiz Bowl matches to keep score and time. She's just one of those students that stands out as having excellent conduct and a magnetic personality."

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not? 

"Finn is definitely an authentic person who stands up for what she believes in. She has participated in Aztec dancing since she was young and still advocates for that community and educates others of its importance. She receives excellent grades while being an active member on CVHS campus in clubs, teams, and tutoring. She stands up for what she believes in, but does so respectfully and encourages others to do the right thing. She truly embodies what it means to be a Spartan and makes those around her better." 

Share FIVE words would you use to describe this student and why these words fit your nominee.

"Exuberant, Civic-minded, Creative, Genuine, Caring/kind-hearted"

Bonita Vista High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Olympia Jara.  Olympia will be attending Southwestern College and playing softball for the Jaguars in the Fall of 2025.  She plans to transfer after two years to continue playing softball and will major in Business, with a minor in Communications.

Below are a fe

Bonita Vista High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Olympia Jara.  Olympia will be attending Southwestern College and playing softball for the Jaguars in the Fall of 2025.  She plans to transfer after two years to continue playing softball and will major in Business, with a minor in Communications.

Below are a few responses from Olympia's nominator, 

Ms. Shannon Bruce:

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued?

"First, she wanted to save all of the stray animals during COVID.  She was Manny's Baron Buddy (cerebral palsy) before he graduated from the transition program last semester and she was so so so sweet with him.  He felt seen and heard because she made the time and effort to be with him at school.  She was voted our Homecoming Queen and she was absolutely so humble about the title.  Recently, I was able to watch her play a softball game and I was star struck!  She's an incredible player!!!!  Supported her teammates with style and grace.  She's loyal to her friends.  She's kindhearted to her core.  She's absolutely a perfect reflection of Micah's heart.  She not only makes her parents so proud, but she helps Bonita shine brighter due to her presence.  She will be missed next year." 

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kind-hearted. How does this student treat others with kindness and compassion?  What does this student do that makes others feel good about themselves?

"Adding on to an above statement.  Manny from our Baron Buddy program stopped by my room to ask if his Baron Buddy was here.  I told him that she was most likely in Mr. Schneeman's class.  He asked me if I could walk him over to see her.  I walked him over and when we arrived his whole entire face lit up when he saw her.  She nervously asked her teacher if she could exit the room to see Manny - Mr. S said ok.  She stepped outside and Manny wanted to take pictures with his Homecoming Queen Baron Buddy - she's a bit shy, but she certainly sucked it up and hammed it up with him - he was in pure joy.  It was a tear jerking moment for me because the kindness she embodies isn't something we see on a daily basis.  It was very difficult for Manny to speak and walk, but when Olympia was with him - she made sure he felt safe, heard, and loved."

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not?

"I'm actually going to answer part of this question by reflecting upon a discussion I had with her mom after watching the softball game. I told her mom what an incredible young woman she raised and her mom started to tear up.  She told me that Olympia has always been the sweetest person.  She spoke about all of the stray animals Olympia wanted to save during COVID and how they had to add animal food to their grocery list because Olympia couldn't bear to see a starving/abandoned animal.  Last semester - I emailed Olympia the last minute to let her know if she wanted an A+ in my class, she had to show up and complete a few things.  I didn't know she was actually far from our campus, but she certainly showed up to earn that A+.  She's a loyal friend.  She's an epic daughter.  She made Manny feel like he was a king.  She supports her softball team by being an incredible player/friend.  She doesn't chase titles - they chase her. Every time I see Olympia - I smile because... well... that's how her vibe flows."   

Otay Ranch High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Omar Lopez.  Omar is attending San Diego State University and is studying Biology.  

Below are a few responses from Omar's nominator, 

Coach Brad Burton:

Share FIVE words would you use to describe this student and why these words fit your nominee.

"Humble, tough, ca

Otay Ranch High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Omar Lopez.  Omar is attending San Diego State University and is studying Biology.  

Below are a few responses from Omar's nominator, 

Coach Brad Burton:

Share FIVE words would you use to describe this student and why these words fit your nominee.

"Humble, tough, caring, dedicated, role-model. Omar was a senior defensive lineman and team captain for our 2024 football Team. He is quiet and unassuming, but his intensity level and work ethic were a model for the other players on the team. He was a true leader and was the spiritual heart of our team.  He volunteered to speak to the team before every game.  He counseled other teammates who were struggling and encouraged teammates during tough times.  He had a season-ending knee injury during his sophomore year and worked his way back to be a top performer as a senior.  He played through two painful injuries his senior year and never complained. His "effort" plays, as a 190lb. DL, became a weekly highlight in our team film sessions. He is the leader of the Faith Club at ORHS and a music leader at his church.  He was the ultimate teammate during the season and still plays a significant leadership role on our campus now."

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not?

"Omar is as authentic as it gets.  As a player he put his all out on the field every game. He was a rock for our team.  When he suffered what would be a season-ending injury early in our final league game against Eastlake, our team was greatly affected.  Omar led players in prayer throughout his career and was always there to guide younger players as a leader by example. Having coached and taught for over 30 years, I can say, without reservation, I have not been around a better young man than Omar Lopez."

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kind-hearted. How does this student treat others with kindness and compassion?  What does this student do that makes others feel good about themselves?

Although Omar was a senior starter and team-captain, he never talked down to or embarrassed his teammates. Instead, he went out of his way to include everyone and to lift others on the team up.  I know he does the same in his role as leader of the Faith Club on campus 

Eastlake High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Lawson Soukup. Lawson is attending Augustana College in Rock Islands, Illinois and is studying Business Administration with an emphasis on Non Profit Leadership.

Below area few responses by Lawson's nominator, 

Mrs. Dolly Charles Dickey:

Share FIVE words would you us

Eastlake High School's 2025 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Lawson Soukup. Lawson is attending Augustana College in Rock Islands, Illinois and is studying Business Administration with an emphasis on Non Profit Leadership.

Below area few responses by Lawson's nominator, 

Mrs. Dolly Charles Dickey:

Share FIVE words would you use to describe this student and why these words fit your nominee.

Dependable: Lawson does what he says he will do. I never have to worry that he won't be at an event, or that he will forget to finish his yearbook pages.  Helpful: Lawson will help teachers and students alike. He goes out of his way to help others.  Caring: Lawson is one of those students who cares about people. He shows this by doing acts of kindness and checking in with his peers to see how they are doing.  Involved: Lawson is in ASB, he's the goalie of Water Polo, he's the President of Pep Club/Blue Crew, he's the Senior Class Editor for yearbook, and he works at Chic-Fil-A.  Energetic: Lawson comes to class with a good attitude and a lot of energy. His peers feed off of this energy (in a good way).

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not?

While Lawson is inclusive and kind-hearted, he is also authentic. He is silly at times, and serious at others. He wrote a thank you letter to me for Christmas, which was heartfelt. It's not too often that students do this (besides on Teacher Appreciation Week). He is a leader for his teammates, in and out of the water. I overhear him telling his yearbook peers how much he appreciates their work.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kind-hearted. How does this student treat others with kindness and compassion?  What does this student do that makes others feel good about themselves?

Lawson is one of the most kind-hearted students I've had in 20 years. This is why I'm nominating him. He is one of those students who makes teaching rewarding. He has a great attitude, and this could be confirmed by his teachers and peers.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued?

In Blue Crew, Lawson makes sure everyone feels included. At the Unified basketball game, he had one of the SpEd kids cheer with them. In yearbook, he helped make sure that the SpEd students were included in the senior portraits.  During Yearbook class, Lawson goes around to check on all the groups to see how everyone is doing.

Bonita Vista High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Presely Alarcon, will be attending Palomar College and pursuing a career in nursing.  With Presley's support, we asked if we could share a few words from the teachers who nominated her which shares a little bit of Presley's background.

Please describe a specific

Bonita Vista High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Presely Alarcon, will be attending Palomar College and pursuing a career in nursing.  With Presley's support, we asked if we could share a few words from the teachers who nominated her which shares a little bit of Presley's background.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued?

"One particular instance that exemplifies Presley's commitment to inclusivity and making others feel welcome occurred during a school lunch where new students were being introduced to the Bonita Vista High School community. Presley took it upon herself to personally greet each new student with a warm smile and a friendly conversation. She made sure to include them in the lunch group activities, ensuring they felt valued and accepted from the moment they stepped foot on campus." - Vince Gervais

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted. How does this student treat others with kindness and compassion?  What does this student do that makes others feel good about themselves? 

"This is rough for me to type out, but here I go.  When I met Presley - she was a new student here at Bonita.  I actually received an email (along with all of her other teachers) about Presley's medical history before her arrival.  This was the first time she was attending a real school in years - she was attending school at the hospital.  Presley survived cancer twice, had a liver transplant, had an ovary removed, etc.  The odds of her survival looked grim.  I was nervous to meet her, because I teach health science and I felt like my class might trigger PTSD.  When she walked through my door - her energy was overwhelming.  I literally felt like she valued every single beat of her heart.  I absolutely adored her.  Second semester rolled around and I had another new student in my 2nd period class and she's battling cancer right now.  She's new and she felt nervous about her hair, etc.  I told Presley about her and Presley stormed through the door, walked straight to the student, and said, "You're my people!"  They compared cancer stories, their chemo duct scars, short hair stories - she literally made the new student feel right at home here at Bonita." - Shannon Bruce

Share FIVE words you would use to describe this student:

"Resilient, compassionate, inspiring, genuine, impactful." - Vince Gervais

"Fearless, courageous, warrior, gregarious, and athletic." - Shannon Bruce

 Otay Ranch High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Joshua Daffron, will be attending the University of California, Irvine studying public health and policy. He would like to be a Pediatrician because of his love for kids and science.  He believes a pediatrician would be a prestigious job he would be proud to hav

 Otay Ranch High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Joshua Daffron, will be attending the University of California, Irvine studying public health and policy. He would like to be a Pediatrician because of his love for kids and science.  He believes a pediatrician would be a prestigious job he would be proud to have.

 Below are a few responses by Joshua's nominator, Coach Brad Burton:

 Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic.

"Josh does not try to be popular.  He is unique and authentic.  He has strong morals and values and holds himself and those around him to a high standard.  He is a willing participant in ASB activities and is isn't afraid to dress up for the dress up days and have fun as a participant or host at school assemblies.  Even during difficult times, Josh never succumbed to negativity or low morale.  He maintains a positive outlook and demeanor in good times and bad.  I was fortunate to see Micah compete against my son, William (Granite Hills), on the high school baseball field and I know he had an impact on many lives, on and off the field.  This scholarship is a prestigious award." 

- Coach Brad Burton 

Share FIVE words you would use to describe this student and why these words fit your nominee.

"POSITIVE, RESPECTFUL, CARING, COMPASSIONATE, LEADER 

 "Josh Daffron always comes to class and practice with a positive attitude.  He always treats those around him, including staff, teammates, and classmates with the utmost respect.  He is a caring and compassionate young man.  He often helped bring his teammates up when they were down or struggling.  Josh is a leader, a powerful, positive presence.  He played through injury and when he was unable to physically compete, he was up on the sideline, cheering his replacement and other teammates on." - Coach Brad Burton

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. 

"Josh was an inspirational leader for the football team.  He played a large roll in our big-brother program, where older players took freshmen football players under their wing.  He supports students of all backgrounds in his roll in ASB and as a team captain." - Coach Brad Burton

 Eastlake High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Isabelle Collier, will be attending the University of California, San Diego and is a biology majorstudying to be a nurse or a physician's assistant.

 Below are a few responses by Isabelle's nominator, teacher, Mrs. Linda Spatafore:

   Please describe a specific exam

 Eastlake High School's 2024 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Isabelle Collier, will be attending the University of California, San Diego and is a biology majorstudying to be a nurse or a physician's assistant.

 Below are a few responses by Isabelle's nominator, teacher, Mrs. Linda Spatafore:

   Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued?

"Izzy takes time to help others in class. She is a great collaborator and others never feel like they are intruding on her time. She does not judge people, but rather encourages others. I have never heard or seen Izzy be disrespectful (even in play) to anyone. I wish all students were as kind as Izzy (school would be a lot nicer place!).  

 Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued? 

"Izzy is easy - going and gets along with all students in the classroom (in any group, she will always discuss with everyone). In addition, I see her seek out those who also may be a bit quiet themselves to try to pull in those who might not otherwise participate."

 Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not?   

Izzy experienced a tremendous loss in her life..."This gives her insight for others who are going through tough times. She is always willing to listen. She holds her family and friends closely knowing these relationships are important. She wants everyone around her to be happy and takes actions to help in that regard."  

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Ashley Segat, is attending the University of California, Santa Barbara and is majoring in Political Science.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. 

"She works tirelessly to pro

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Ashley Segat, is attending the University of California, Santa Barbara and is majoring in Political Science.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. 

"She works tirelessly to promote inclusion opportunities for students with special needs.  As a leader with the Titan Buddies, she has consistently assisted with Special Olympics and school events to celebrate students with special needs.  She is currently organizing a prom event for our mod/severe programs that invites general education students to be involved as chaperones and ambassadors." - Dr. Cooke, 2023 EHS Principal  

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted. 

"Ashley has a sister who is in the mod/sever program and I have seen on numerous occasions volunteer her time to assist this class with accessing school events.  She gives freely of her time to assist with small birthday parties, field trips and special olympics.  She consistently challenges me to be a better advocate for students with special needs and helps me promote special opportunities.  She helped advocate for a special needs bathroom that is only available for them. She believed they needed more privacy and appropriate space." - Dr. Cooke, 2023 EHS Principal  

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. 

"Ashley is self-confident, a go-getter, and authentic. She doesn't just talk about what improvements should and could be made, she actually puts it into action. She has a very strong sense of self and believes she can make a difference." - Elisa Cacho, Eastlake High School, IA

Bonita Vista High School's 2023 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Kassidy Wakefield, is attending Southwestern College and is studying General Education.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

 "I'll explain the latest - because there are t

Bonita Vista High School's 2023 

$1500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Kassidy Wakefield, is attending Southwestern College and is studying General Education.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

 "I'll explain the latest - because there are too many examples.  A student by the name of Cristina approached me - shy - asking me if I could find some fun girls she could go to the prom with because she didn't have a date nor a solid group of friends.  I asked Kassidy and she immediately said - heck yes - the more the merrier!  Cristina was in my classroom during nutrition break - Kass walked through the door - looked at Cristina - SMILED AND ASKED HER TO THE PROM!!!!!  I legit teared up.  Cristina said YES and they exchanged IG accounts and phone numbers. It was extremely heartwarming.  After Cristina left - I told Kass she just changed the world and she said - no Ms. Bruce - you just changed the world.  She didn't even take the credit for her kindness.  LLM." - Mrs. Shannon Bruce  

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted.

 "Friends want to be around her; her magnetic personality radiates; I witnessed her recognize sorrow in another and she took it upon herself to inquire and lend her shoulder to lean on and her ears to listen."

- Mr. Vince Gervais

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not?

"This is one of those answers that only meeting with her truly answers this question. Her style of dress is different than most her age; her carefree empathy makes her authentic in comparison to her peers; and her No ILL Will personality is a refreshing alternative to today's apathetic, pessimistic, Gotcha attitudes of today's teens."

- Mr. Vince Gervais

 "Meet Kass and you'll feel the answer to this question.  She's light, love, peace, and harmony.  I'll probably never be able to nominate another student for the LLM because people like Micah and Kass rarely cross my path." 

- Ms. Shannon Bruce 

Bonita Vista High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Isabella Gutierrez, is attending San Diego State University and is studying Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. 

"Bella is always herse

Bonita Vista High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Isabella Gutierrez, is attending San Diego State University and is studying Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. 

"Bella is always herself. She makes terrible jokes, laughs whenever possible, and is the epitome of joy on a daily basis. She shares that silliness with her classmates and is never embarrassed to just be herself. She is honest when she is struggling with life's challenges, and optimistic about every endeavor even when life isn't going the best it can be." - Mr. Mark McCann

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive. How does this student help to make others feel welcome, included, happy, and valued?

Bella is our band president at Bonita Vista High School, where her number one job in that position is to foster a sense of community. She has had immense success throughout the course of her duties, but this year is not the first time she demonstrated her innate ability to be inclusive. I have had the privilege of being Bella's band teacher for all four years of high school. As a freshman I watched her already begin to take a hand in involving and helping those around her. In small groups, she would immediately be drawn to the person who was struggling the most and would offer a hand or lend an ear. Her instinct to involve those around her, especially those she felt were the most disconnected, has strengthened our program as a whole." 

- Mr. Mark McCann

What words would you use to describe this student?

"Kindhearted, Determined, Resourceful, Community-oriented, Selfless"

- Mr. Mark McCann

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Maisey Boldt, is attending Point Loma Nazarene University and is majoring in Kinesiology.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

"I had Micah in the classroom as well as on the f

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Maisey Boldt, is attending Point Loma Nazarene University and is majoring in Kinesiology.

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

"I had Micah in the classroom as well as on the football / baseball field.. I know personally just how inclusive he was. When his team was doing well in a game and it was his time to step out and let others play he did it with the largest smile on his face. That is Maisey through and through. She is always stepping aside to let others around her shine; whether it be in the classroom, on the field or in her church. In sports medicine i have watched her get some of the highest grades on projects or tests, yet when you try to congratulate her she always says someone else deserves the recognition. She is always checking in on her classmates making sure they understand the concepts we are learning in class. In the internship aspect she goes to others and helps them with their taping or splinting techniques all while being positive and telling them how great they are and how their efforts showed. I have never once heard her speak ill of another student or athlete, let alone another teacher or coach. When others are speaking poorly she is the first to remind others that everyone has their battles and we have to be kind and support one another to make this world better and brighter.. just like Micah did." - Mrs. Courtney Creel

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted.

"Maisey is everyone's cheerleader. It doesn't matter if she has known you for 10 minutes or 10 years; she will always be the one cheering you on and encouraging you to go after what you want in life. Maisey is the first to ask how others are doing and if they need anything, be it a hug, a shoulder to lean on or a coffee to pick them up. She can be having a hard day or week and still shows up to make others around her smile and laugh. Her smile is contagious; as she truly lights up any room she walks into.  This year Maisey made the varsity volleyball team; she wasn't getting alot of playing time. Instead of complaining to me or her parents she said to me " this just means I get to be the loudest cheering girl on the bench to keep my team hyped up" it was in that moment that I knew how selfless she was. She knew she was good at volleyball but put her feelings to the side to cheer on her teammates and support them however she needed support." Mrs. Courtney Creel

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. Micah had a carefree spirit and a natural sense of who he was and how important the people around him were. How does this student demonstrate this strength of character? How is this student consistent in being a good person, no matter who is around or not? 

"Authentic is a hard thing to be when you are a teenager learning who you are and where you are going in life. Maisey is truly authentic and big hearted, always making sure the people in her life know how much she cares for them and truly loves them. I will give a personal example I had with how authentic Maisey is. Distance learning is the first year I had Maisey in Sports Medicine, while on DL she would log in early every class with her camera on (almost all kids never turned their cameras on)  to ask how I was and to get to know me as a person- not just a teacher. I quickly learned that she actually cared how I was doing as a person and wasn't just asking in hopes to pass time or boost her grade. We started to build a relationship which only grew stronger upon returning to the classroom. At point the second year I was teaching Maisey she walked in with a football jersey and a huge smile on her face. She looks at me and said, "I was out thrift shopping this weekend and saw this and knew it was your favorite team so I grabbed it for you, I hope you love it". Sure enough I loved it and put it on immediately which put the biggest smile on her face. She cares for others more then she cares for herself. During a challenging time in my personal life she made sure to reach out constantly and check-in even though this time was over a break. No other students have ever done this and I know she doesn't just do it with me but everyone she comes in contact with. The love is endless with her; just as it was with Micah. Both Micah and Maisey are/ were smaller people yet they have more love in their bodies than some 6'5 people would ever hope to have. If I could teach my child to be half the person these two are then I know I did a decent job raising them :)" 

- Mrs. Courtney Creel

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Chris Saucedo, is attending Carnegie Mello University and is majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

"He literally brought my ELD class togethe

Eastlake High School's 2023 

$500 "Live Like Micah" Scholarship recipient, Chris Saucedo, is attending Carnegie Mello University and is majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being inclusive.

"He literally brought my ELD class together, He inspired other students to not be worried about their accents, he motivated them to try out for sports on campus. He is the Captain of the tennis team here at EHS. He created a program to collect food during lunch to give to those in need. He helped students make American friends. He has become friends with his teachers. He is always smiling." - Mrs. Monica Perez-Peters

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being kindhearted.

 
"He was always praising kids in their work and their attempts. He would build lots of students up. He focused on the positive when giving feedback on their papers. He would invite lonely kids to each lunch with him when they were new to this country and to this school. He never excluded anyone. I have only seen this a few times in my teaching career."  - Mrs. Monica Perez-Peters

Please describe a specific example where this student's actions reflected Micah's approach to life in terms of being authentic. 

"Christopher is genuinely the kindest soul. He does not see color, gender, age, citizenship. He is kind always, motivating always. Even with his little brother, he is so sweet and motivating their relationship is serious brother goals. He is great with his teammates and so respected by them. I know they would all agree that he would teach you and never not share his skills. He wants the whole team to be their best. He is not jealous or worried that someone may supersede him, he wants everyone to live their best life."  

- Mrs. Monica Perez-Peters