Students showcase activities; attendance clerk Amber Russell honored for assisting injured student

Student leaders from multiple district campuses gave brief presentations highlighting recent events, extracurricular activities and awards, and the board recognized an employee who intervened to help an injured student.

Brooklyn Stoping, who identified herself as Rio Vista Associated Student Body president, opened Rio Vista's presentation and described school events including Red Ribbon Week, the Fall Festival and a new book-vending incentive. "As you can see, our shirts say we service with pride lead with confidence and Inspire to impact lives," Brooklyn told the board.

Gianna Perez, a senior at High Desert Premier Academy, and officers from Apple Valley and Granite Hills gave updates on family engagement events, career-focused field trips, arts and athletics accomplishments, and students who qualified for the state Seal of Biliteracy.

During recognition, school principal Miss Heyman nominated Amber Russell, Sitting Bull Academy's attendance clerk, after receiving a report that Russell had stopped on her way to work on Sept. 26, 2024, to assist a young girl struck by a passing pickup truck. The principal described how Russell contacted school police, remained at the scene and ensured the family had the necessary information for the police report. "Amber did not stop because she recognized the young lady; she stopped because it was the right thing to do," the principal said while presenting a certificate of appreciation.

Trustees thanked students and staff for their efforts and attendance, and the board released the students so they could return to classes and family obligations.

What happens next: Trustees asked staff to continue showcasing student work and report back on any requests for recognition or follow-up from the schools.

Sources: Student ASB presentations and the principal's nomination during the Apple Valley Unified School District board meeting.