Grand Terrace students showcase STEM, arts and leadership at Colton Unified board meeting

Student leaders from Grand Terrace High School presented a year-long showcase of academics, athletics and arts at the Colton Joint Unified Board meeting on May 1, and the board formally recognized two science fair winners advancing to national competition.

Nick Romo (ASB vice president), Jaden Mercia (ASB secretary), Jaden Bell and Macy Gustafsson highlighted campus programs including a career fair that exposed students to welding, carpentry, automotive and health-care career pathways; numerous students earned the California State Seal of Biliteracy; and the school’s legacy marching band and theater programs earned county and national recognition. The ASB team also detailed student projects that advanced to county and state competitions.

Dr. Peterson (Educational Services) and school staff recognized Danae Figueroa and Priscilla Munoz for district sweepstakes, county gold medals, Regeneron Biomedical Science awards and UCLA mentorship grants; their project, described as a "Smart Device for the Individually Impaired" (a glove that assists the visually impaired), also advanced to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Presenters noted a prior $50,000 scholarship award to a student who advanced previously and said Priscilla will attend Arizona State University while Danae plans to attend UCR.

Board members applauded the students and advisors for a wide range of extracurricular achievements and thanked the families and mentors who supported the work. Principal and district leaders encouraged the students to continue leadership roles on campus next year.

The recognition portion was followed by other presentations and updates; the board opened public comment afterward.