The Rotary Citizen of the Year Award, sponsored by the local Rotary Club, is presented to a grade 8 student who has served as a paragon of good citizenship, service and scholarship. Selection is made by the Colina certificated staff, led by the principal.
2007-08
Congratulations to Shobha Jagannatham
Shobha Jagannatham is an all-around exemplary student. Shobha epitomizes outstanding citizenship, scholarship, diligence and outreach to fellow students. This young lady has earned a stunning 38 A+ grades in her three years at Colina. A member of ASB Leadership this year and of Colina's Chamber Orchestra last year, she belongs also to our PTSA Student Involvement and to California Junior Scholarship Federation, and is a student representative to the decision-making body School Site Council. She has served as a Peer Tutor for two years and has participated in the local Relay for Life. Congratulations.
2006-07
Congratulations to Rachael Klavir
Rachael Klavir is Editor-in-Chief of Colina's Yearbook. Says ASB adviser Mr. Clark: "Rachael...has been of tremendous help to the school as yearbook editor, [with the] election and fashion show introduction videos, digital pictures, and [has] helped at all school events." A member of Symphonic Band and Jazz Band 1, she plays alto sax, and was selected to the All-State Honor Band.
2005-06
Congratulations to Alex Tiffin
Alex Tiffin is a paragon among students: He has earned a near 4.0 GPA over three years at Colina Middle in all Honors courses, the high-school-credit Spanish class and ASB/Leadership, in addition to his straight “Excellent” marks in work habits and citizenship. “Alex is a great role model,” said Mike Waters, principal. “He is a gentle soul who makes the school better in academics, spirit and sports. He helps other kids be better.” Assistant principal Margaret Saleh echoed that view, saying that Alex “always goes beyond himself to help the school be a better place.” Dean of students Shane Frank noted that Alex “has already reached higher than others, physically and metaphorically.” Alex’s counselors, Sam Kane and Moira Fagan-Simpson, cited his friendliness, dependability and initiative. In ASB/Student Government, according to adviser Eric Scherer, Alex has demonstrated strong leadership and organizational skills. As for academics, teacher Traci Krug summed it all up about Alex Tiffin: “Motivated, stellar and amazing.”
2004-05
Congratulations to Jake Kneller
Jake Kneller is an exceptional young man. He combines a friendly smile, strong work ethic, and a commitment to others that models the ideal school citizen.
Jake’s accomplishments include selection to our student government class, where he has been elected as the Sports Committee Chairperson and School President. Jake has completed both assignments with distinction, never failing to make friends as he worked towards goals.
Athletically, Jake was a member of the 8th grade Championship Basketball Team, as well as captain of the Volleyball Team. In the classroom, Jake excels in an honor’s curriculum. Most importantly, Jake excels in the hallways of the school, where his infectious smile and sense of humor brightens our campus.
--Mr. Waters, Principal
2003-04
Congratulations to Kate Sullivan
Kate’s smile says it all. Kate Sullivan is friendly, genuine, industrious, and caring. Kate is an outstanding student and member of Colina’s ASB. Kate coaches Colina’s 6th grade students at lunch and at the Thousand Oaks Teen Center, helped the PTSA with their annual Jog-A-Thon, and volunteers with the Girl Scouts. Kate is always smiling and willing to help others.
2002-03
Congratulations to Kelsey Kaehler
Eighth grader Kelsey brings a smile for every person she meets each day. She has a big heart and cares deeply about how others are feeling. She has reached out on a consistent basis as the chairperson of our ASB friendship committee. Kelsey has a love of life and also has a competitive spirit which allows her to go hard at everything with which she becomes involved. Combining that big heart and competitive spirit allows Kelsey to be an ideal sportsperson. She wins championships and friends with equal aplomb. Colina is proud to present Kelsey Kaehler as our Rotary Citizen of the Year.
Past Rotary Club Citizen of the Year Award Winners...
