The Lakers are proud to announce the November 2010 Student and Educator of the Month winners! This month's student winners are Jocelynn Soto, Gregory Hermosa. The winning teachers are Janique Ratliff and Michelle Tran. The winning principals are Bill Baker and Sergio Canal. Each winner demonstrates an outstanding commitment to academia, athletics, and community outreach.
Jocelynn Soto is a 10th grader at Inglewood High School. Jocelynn is both an excellent student and a member of Inglewood's award winning "Sentinel Marching Band". She is also a "character ambassador" for her high school's Character Education Program.
Gregory Hermosa is a 12th grader at El Camino High School. At school Gregory has shown drastic improvement in his grades and is now student body vice-president, in charge of fundraising and community outreach. He is also a member of the wrestling and track teams.
Janique Ratliff is a 4th grade teacher at Clara Barton Elementary School. Ms. Ratliff helps her 4th grade students show dramatic academic growth in the classroom, and helps develop their self-confidence by organizing and preparing students for an annual talent show.
Michelle Tran is a 1st grade teacher at Woodcrest School. Ms. Tran is praised by her principal as a patient, giving and caring role model for her 1st grade students. In the summer, Ms. Tran volunteers abroad and has helped the less fortunate in Mexico, Ghana and Haiti.
Bill Baker is a principal at Victor Elementary School. Mr. Baker works closely with both students and staff. He is dedicated to improving the school through the use of technology and oversees Victor Elementary School's participation in the annual Lakers "Read To Achieve, Reading Challenge".
Sergio Canal is principal at North Park High School. Mr. Canal has done wonders to change the culture at his continuation high school by implementing strict rules, a dress code and by providing a fair and consistent role model for his students.
Each Student and Educator of the Month winner was invited to the home game on November 5th against the Toronto Raptors. They were honored during a halftime presentation where they received a plaque and a $50 gift certificate to Staples. The nominations for the November Student and Educator of the Month were submitted by principals and teachers of each school based on exemplary teaching efforts, academic achievement or extracurricular activities.