Salem-Keizer Public Schools
Celebrating Student Resilience at the 2025 Turnaround Achievement Awards
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Twenty-three students were recognized at the 29th Annual Turnaround Achievement Awards ceremony and luncheon, held at the Keizer Civic Center on May 22, 2025 and sponsored by Valor Mentoring. This year’s event centered on the theme of Effort, Perseverance and Commitment—a reflection of the remarkable journeys these students have taken.
The annual celebration honors middle and high school students in public and private schools in the cities of Salem and Keizer. Students honored have demonstrated extraordinary personal growth and determination. They were selected for choosing to overcome challenges and commit to a new path—one marked by renewed focus, hard work, and hope for the future.
Many of the honorees faced significant obstacles, including low attendance, academic struggles, or behavioral challenges. Through effort, perseverance, and commitment, they turned things around. Today, these students are recognized for their strong attendance, improved academic performance, and positive engagement with their school communities.
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Superintendent Andrea Castañeda, started the event by with a welcome message, sharing admiration for the students’ resilience and courage and extending gratitude for the adults who supported them.
Each student was honored individually during the event. In a series of short videos, a school staff member introduced each student and shared why they were selected.
Award Recipients
Congratulations to the 2025 Turnaround Achievement Award recipients. Your effort, perseverance, and commitment continue to inspire us all.
- Kenzie Jordison—Blanchet Catholic School
- Levi Guerrero—Claggett Creek Middle School
- Micah Sands—Crosshill Christian School
- Julian Schanz—Crosshill Christian School
- Brooklyn Reams—Crossler Middle School
- Jay Califf—Early College High School
- Caleb Bartlett—EDGE Program
- Alonzo Smith—Houck Middle School
- Lorena Aguayo—Judson Middle School
- Njson David—Leslie Middle School
- Jesus Flores Fernandez—McKay High School
- Julian Eslava—McNary High School
- Devin Urquides—North Salem High School
- Esmeralda Rios Cabrera—Parrish Middle School
- Katie Rosario—Roberts High School
- Yoselin Pantoja—South Salem High School
- Reed Larson—South Salem High School
- Isabella Sanchez—Stephens Middle School
- Yoel Cervantes—Straub Middle School
- Jaiden Solis—Waldo Middle School
- Gaige Mathis—Walker Middle School
- Isaiah Baelo—West Salem High School
- Viseth Korm—Whiteaker Middle School