At its recent June 9th luncheon, Division 33 of the California Retired Teachers Association (CalRTA) honored its 2026 scholarship recipients and their families. A $1000 scholarship is awarded each year to qualifying outstanding local seniors who have chosen to pursue careers in education. Representing high schools in the Hemet, San Jacinto, Menifee and Nuview School Districts, these students demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a shared commitment to serving future generations. Their stories reflect not only personal determination but also the powerful influence of teachers who inspired them to follow this path.
Sofia Alvarez Velazques graduated from San Jacinto Leadership Academy with a deep desire to support multilingual learners. Born in Mexico and once an English learner herself, Sofia was inspired by supportive teachers who helped her find confidence and belonging as she struggled to learn her new language. Sofia plans to attend Mt. San Jacinto College, where she will major in Early Childhood Education then transfer to Cal State San Bernardino and pursue an English Language Development certification. Her goal is to become an ELD teacher who creates that same sense of encouragement for her students that she received and to give back to the San Jacinto community that shaped her.
Daisy Campa completed her senior year at Alessandro High School with a reputation for resilience and steady academic growth. Teachers described Daisy as personable, supportive, and consistently prepared, noting her “willingness to engage in discussions” and “positive influence” on campus. Daisy plans to attend Mt. San Jacinto College to major in Education and become a special education teacher. Inspired by her younger brother, who has autism, she hopes to help children improve their communication skills and gain confidence.
Mckenzie Harnit made quite an impact at Hemet High School through her boundless energy and wide‑ranging involvement. A four‑year cheerleader and three‑year STUNT athlete, she also served as the school mascot while excelling in academic clubs and maintaining a 5.0 GPA. Her commitment to community service further strengthened her record of leadership. Mckenzie will attend UC Santa Barbara, where she plans to major in Applied Mathematics and become a high school math teacher.
Nicholas Hockman, a recent graduate of the Western Center Academy, was an exceptional scholar and campus leader whose discipline and kindness shaped every part of his high school experience. With a 4.40 GPA, he excelled in AP Biology, Biotechnology and Marine Biology and helped lead hands‑on STEM activities for elementary students. As a two‑year Link Crew leader, he designed and taught lessons that strengthened his passion for education. Nicholas plans to attend CSU San Marcos with a major in Biology and wants to become a high school biology teacher who inspires students to love science and believe in themselves.
Silvia Sandoval graduated from San Jacinto High School as a scholar known for intellectual drive and outstanding leadership. With a 4.1 GPA and advanced coursework in mathematics, she earned multiple honors, including the Tiger Excellence Gold Medal. Silvia also served as a math tutor for Upward Bound and held leadership roles in AP Club, Tiger Den, and Paws and Claws. Her future plans are to study Mathematics at Mt. San Jacinto College then transfer to UCLA to become a math teacher and inspire future students.
Yesenia Sandoval completed her studies at Nuview Bridge Early College High School with a relentless academic drive and a strong commitment to young learners. She even earned two associate degrees while still in high school. Her involvement in theater, cheer, and as track manager, highlighted her dependability and leadership. Yesenia will attend CSU Fullerton, where she will major in Child and Adolescent Studies and eventually teach kindergarten.
Madison Surritt emerged as one of West Valley High School’s most influential student leaders, known for her compassion and ability to bring people together. A multiyear ASB officer and Senior Class President, she also contributed significantly to FFA, Ballet Folklorico, athletics, and numerous campus programs. Her kindness and determination left a lasting mark on her school community. Madison plans to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and major in Agriculture Education, with the hope of becoming an agriculture teacher who empowers students to grow with confidence and purpose.
Lizette Garcia Vargas excelled at Tahquitz High School, maintaining a clear focus on her academics and a deep commitment to serving others. With a 4.0 GPA in rigorous AP and dual‑enrollment courses, she also devoted her time to ASB, AVID, cheer, and the AP Calculus Club. With more than 130 hours of community service, Lizette also demonstrated her desire to give back. She will major in Education at Cal State San Marcos and become an elementary school teacher who is dedicated to helping young students build strong foundations for their futures.
Carolina Vasquez approached her senior year at the Academy of Innovation with a clear sense of purpose and a growing passion for helping others succeed. With a 3.71 GPA, she explored both education and finance, inspired by the importance of financial literacy and the influence of great teachers. Carolina intends to study Education and Finance at Mt. San Jacinto College and plans to become either an elementary teacher or a CTE/finance educator.
Jaidyn Waysack brought dedication and deep commitment to her years at Hamilton High School. With a 3.76 GPA and involvement in ASB, CSF, Friday Night Live, and yearbook, she contributed significantly to student life and campus events. Inspired by teachers who supported her and lifted her up during trying times, she has chosen a path in education. Jaidyn plans to attend UC Riverside, major in Liberal Studies and become an elementary school teacher, continuing the cycle of support she experienced.
Ta’niah Willis graduated from San Jacinto High School as a dynamic leader whose creativity, resilience, and academic strength shaped her many contributions. With a 3.94 GPA and honors such as the Silver GPA Award and National Society of High School Scholars membership, she excelled academically while leading Theatre Club, BSU, and AFJROTC events. As President of Theatre Club and Vice President of BSU, she demonstrated strong communication, artistic vision and service. Ta’niah will attend California Baptist University, major Child Development and become an elementary educator. Her goal is to “become the teacher I needed most growing up.”
Each year, CalRTA offers up to 14 $1000 scholarships to qualifying seniors who plan to pursue a career in education. Part of CalRTA’s mission is to support public education, and Division 33 does just that through its scholarships and “no strings attached” teacher grants for current classroom teachers. For more information about CalRTA, visit the state website at calrta.org or the Division 33 website at div33.calrta.org.
