The Ceres Rotary Club honored two Ceres students as “Students of the Month” at Friday’s meeting at the Ceres Community Center.
Whitmore Charter School Middle School student Zoe Irons and Central Valley High School junior Diego Mendoza Comparan were singled out for honors.
Zoe Irons stands out not only as a student who is dedicated to learning but also as one who always puts in her best effort. She connects well with her peers, engaging in meaningful classroom discussions and volunteering answers in class. In addition, she is an active participant in the Interact Club where she embraces various volunteer opportunities, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
Irons has embraced new challenges by supporting both the fall production of Peter Pan and the spring musical Finding Nemo as a stagehand. These productions are a core part of the culture at Whitmore Charter, and her support ensures the audience sees all of the hard work that it takes to make shows successful.
Her involvement in the arts this year also shows her willingness to step outside of her comfort zone. Irons and the Whitmore staff are particularly proud of the efforts she has made this year to become more involved in school activities and push herself to take on more active roles at school.
Throughout 8th grade, Zoe has shown remarkable growth in her self-confidence. Her teachers have observed a significant change as she becomes more engaged and involved in various activities. This transformation not only reflects her personal development but helps her build connections within the Whitmore Charter community.
Diego Mendoza Comparan
Selected as a student who exemplifies commitment to scholarship, leadership, citizenship, and volunteerism, Diego Mendoza Comparan is considered by school officials as a remarkable student known for his giving heart and kind spirit. He’s always looking for ways to give back to his community, whether it’s through mentorship or volunteering. His respectful nature makes him a joy to be around, and he truly embodies the values of the Ceres Rotary Club.
Comparan is heavily involved in FFA and has stepped up as a leader by being secretary of the Tri-Rivers section for a year and a former sentinel at CVHS. He has served as a member of ag leadership for all of his three years at CVHS. He has participated in various leadership conferences, including the Green Hand Leadership Conference, Chapter Leadership Conference, and Sectional Officer Leadership Summit.His contributions to FFA earned him the “Made for Excellence Most Valuable Member award.” Diego hass even had the honor of being a regional and state delegate for FFA.
He’s also been active in sports, playing soccer in ninth grade, basketball in 10th grade, and volleyball for all three years. Diego is also a member of Wowe and has served as an ambassador for two years. Furthermore, his recent achievement of placing seco2nd in the Occupational Olympics and his participation in the RYLA program showcases his dedication to excellence.
His commitment to community service is impressive, with over 300 hours at the Red Shield Center. Diego initiated a nonprofit project to benefit his community and has been part of a group that donates toys to children in hospitals. He also organized a hygiene drive for the homeless, reaching out to local companies for support.
Diego ran Camp Sylvester, a leadership initiative that connected 90 students from 10 schools, fostering networking and collaboration. He is also in the process of reestablishing the Interact Club at CVHS. He has been a role model to younger students by serving as a camp counselor for sixth grade camp.
After graduation in 2026, Diego hopes to attend a four-year college or transfer to study business or international affairs.
