In a world that often rewards the loudest voices, Elijah Santacruz-Angel is proving that a “kind and cheerful spirit” combined with a newfound focus can be the most powerful tools for success.
CHS-Silver Campus is proud to officially name Elijah Santacruz-Angel its Student of the Month, displaying his leadership in the JAG program and his remarkable personal growth. Elijah has a newfound vision for his future and success.
His motivation to succeed is deeply rooted in his commitment to his family. While many high schoolers are still weighing their options, he has already drafted a blueprint for his future: a career as an electrician in the construction industry.
“My goals are to be able to help my family more,” Elijah said, noting that his technical ambitions are a way to turn classroom lessons into real-world stability. Elijah’s impact on campus is perhaps most visible through his work with the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Career Association. Voted in by his peers, Elijah currently serves as the Historian, a role that tasks him with documenting the progress and activities of his class throughout the school year.
His JAG teacher, Mrs. Stokes, noted that Elijah’s influence goes far beyond the clerical duties. “Elijah assisted with the JAG Induction Ceremony, and he will have the opportunity to attend and compete in a statewide conference in Las Vegas this March,” she said. “His JAG peers appreciate his kind spirit; he brings joy to the class every day.”
His path to Student of the Month wasn’t without its obstacles. Elijah spoke candidly about battling social anxiety and a period where he felt tempted to give up on school entirely. The turning point came through a combination of self-reflection and a strong support network at school.
He credits his math teacher, Mrs. Gingrich, for helping him realize that attention to detail is the key to achieving anything he sets his mind to. Similarly, his art teacher, Mrs. Bean, encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone and interact more with those around him. “The teachers showed me different ways to look at situations to problem solve,” Elijah explained. “That has really helped with my confidence to do things and to be around people.”
Elijah stated that one of his greatest sources of inspiration, however, is his father. Elijah’s drive to earn his high school diploma is fueled by his father’s own history and his hopes for his son’s future. “My dad always said that he wants to see me graduate and walk the stage because he never did. He has helped push me… saying it will lead to better opportunities.”
When he isn’t busy documenting JAG history or mastering math equations, Elijah finds balance through his hobbies. An avid fan of drawing and video games, he values the time he spends hanging out with friends, a social activity that has become much easier as he continues to overcome his anxiety.
As he prepares for the JAG Career Development Conference in Las Vegas this spring, Elijah Santacruz-Angel stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a student is met with the right encouragement and a clear sense of purpose.
All students named as a weekly Senior Spotlight are featured at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Carson City. The Rotary Club of Carson City is a vibrant and dedicated group of professionals and community leaders committed to making a positive impact. The club welcomes individuals who are passionate about service and enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth, networking and fellowship.
