Congratulations to Evelyn Stoddard, fifth-grade student at Fir Grove Elementary; Keira Mayorga, sixth-grader at Fremont Middle School; and Roseburg High School’s Mateo Rivero, 11th grade, and senior Elijah Stewart Swallow. These students were recognized with Exceptional Student Awards at our October 14 School Board meeting.

Each month, students are chosen by their schools to be honored at our School Board meetings. Students may be recognized for a variety of achievements and successes such as academics, community-mindedness, character, positive influence, and extracurriculars.

Here’s what their schools had to say: 

Evelyn is an amazing human being with an incredibly bright future. She is kind, helpful, and academically talented. She helps keep others on task and engages her peers in thoughtful, meaningful conversations. She has spent the last three years on the Oregon Battle of the Books team and has an incredible memory. Evelyn often has an inquisitive look on her face as she thinks through a problem, especially in math, one of her favorite subjects. She is not afraid to challenge her teacher or others when she spots a mistake, and she brings a unique and thoughtful perspective to everything she does. One day, Evelyn might just be ruling the world. Her potential is limitless, and her teachers couldn't be prouder of all she has accomplished and the person she is becoming. Evelyn is simply amazing.

Keira truly embodies what it means to be a Fremont General by leading by example in everything she does. Whether she is stepping into math, art, band, or language arts, Keira arrives every day with a bright smile, a positive presence, and a genuine readiness to learn. Across all of her classes, Keira sets the standard for academic dedication and personal responsibility. She comes prepared, completes her assignments with excellence, and asks thoughtful questions that deepen her understanding and enrich classroom discussions. Keira’s infectious enthusiasm and kindness lift up the entire school community. From sharing her passion for a great book to welcoming classmates with open arms, she builds strong connections and makes friends effortlessly. Her remarkable fortitude, maturity, and perseverance inspire not only her peers but her teachers as well. Keira demonstrates that true leadership starts with showing up, working hard, and bringing joy to those around you. 

Mateo is an exceptional student and leader who consistently demonstrates kindness, responsibility, positivity, and integrity. He is a conscientious learner who wants to understand not only the right answer, but why it works. Mateo asks thoughtful questions, welcomes feedback, shares his thinking, and willingly supports his peers. As a third-year Leadership student, he has grown tremendously in confidence and maturity, mentoring younger students and ensuring everyone feels included. His creativity and musical talents have also positively impacted others, including children in the RHS Child Development Center. Mateo represents what PRIDE truly means, Positive, Respectful, Involved, Determined and Encouraging. 

Elijah is an exceptional student whose intellectual curiosity, creativity, and compassion positively impact everyone around them. A critical thinker and excellent writer, Elijah asks thoughtful questions, considers multiple perspectives, and proudly says, “I love learning!” They advocate for equity and others while bringing humor, positivity, and encouragement to the classroom. As a fourth-year photography student, Elijah successfully completed an AP Photography portfolio, earned college credit, and continues to challenge themselves creatively. They have also joined yearbook, enthusiastically contributing and attending events. Elijah’s integrity, emotional wisdom, willingness to take risks, and genuine enthusiasm for learning make them truly remarkable.