The Every Student Succeeding program honors those who have overcome challenges while exceeding expectations and earning the support of their educators.
At Ripon Unified, two students recently received the San Joaquin County Association of California School Administrators honors at a breakfast event held at the San Joaquin County Office of Education.
Nick Garoutte, who is an eighth- grade student at Ripon Elementary, was one of the two honored at last Monday’s school board meeting.
He was nominated by Principal Dante Alvarez.
Cyanne McKibben was also nominated, with Ripon High Vice Principal Victor Ramirez doing the honors for the 11th grade student.
She was praised for excellent attitude and “there for her family and (working) hard to overcome challenges,” said Ramirez, who was at the school board recognition held in the City of Ripon Council Chamber.
As for Garoutte, he has a long-term goal of attending college, landing a great job, and taking care of his grandparents.
McKibben and Garoutte were among those recognized by ACSA program for facing challenges head on despite the difficulty of the situation.

To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.