Courtesy of the city of Santa Clarita

The city of Santa Clarita Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission is honoring eight students through the SCV Teen Hero program, which seeks young community members who show leadership and overcome obstacles in their lives, city officials said Wednesday. 

The teens will be honored at a 6p.m. ceremony on Thursday.

“The Santa Clarita Valley junior high and high school students are selected by teachers and principals throughout the year,” according to city officials. “The students will receive a certificate from the City of Santa Clarita Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission.”

The city of Santa Clarita’s Neighborhood Empowerment Safety Team along with the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission honor the SCV Teen Heroes and are sharing “their stories” in an effort to encourage other youth to make positive choices and to show perseverance no matter what hardships may come.

SCV Teen Hero Program Honorees:

Brandy Coontz, Saugus High School 

Brandy Coontz is an 11th grade student at Saugus High School. She was selected by school counselor, Salim Raza.

Brandy Coontz

“Brandy has overcome years of disabling issues,” Raza said.  “I believe Brandy deserves

this award because she is now successfully managing school and her home life with stamina and strength. This has impressed everyone that knows her and she now does things that she would have normally avoided in the past.”

There are many obstacles and challenges that Brandy has dealt with in her young life, which over time, have affected her self-confidence and self- esteem resulting in a life style of extreme

solitude. In recent months, Brandy has chosen to leave that all behind and she is developing into a stronger person clothed with strength and determination.

Brandy saw her need for change, not only to survive but to live life fully. Standing beside her are her dedicated parents. “They have been the most supportive through these difficult times,” Raza said.

Because of the issues Brandy has dealt with in the past she has not participated in many activities. Noteworthy, however, is the fact that she made the journey to Modesto to attend a “Glee” Cast event where she was able to enjoy seeing several of its stars singing and performing in a variety show. Glee is the story of a high-school Spanish teacher who becomes the director of the school’s Glee club, hoping to restore it to its former glory. An encouraging group, which we all need to benefit from.

As a testament to Brandy’s newly found strength, she has plans to one day attend a junior college and then move on to a four year university.

Christopher Collier, Rio Norte Junior High

Christopher Collier, is an eighth grade student at Rio Norte Junior High School. He was selected by the Rio Norte Junior High School teaching staff.

Christopher Collier

Rio Norte staff members tell us Christopher is an amazing young man. He is a role model to others and a friend to all. He has shown strength and wisdom beyond his years in dealing with life’s obstacles including the death of a sibling. He should be recognized for his phenomenal spirit and sincerity. 

According to teacher Erin Swanson, Christopher is a young man with a huge heart, “Christopher is always trying to improve and do his best. He manages to cheer his friends up when they are down, and he always tries to help. Christopher elevates those around him, even me. I am grateful to have him in my classroom this year,” said Swanson.

Teacher Stephanie Sosa said, “Christopher is an active participant in English class. He engages in thoughtful and perceptive discussions that show he has a deeper understanding of themes and symbolism within literature. The obstacles he has faced definitely influences his perceptions of the world around him, and when he puts forth effort,  his work reflects a  high level of competency, which I am thrilled to be a part of. He is a caring individual with the capability and potential to achieve high goals. His classmates respect him as well and often turn to him for guidance in group work.” 

Christopher’s Math teacher, Kyra Smith said, “Christopher is a true joy to have in class. His charismatic charm can lead a class effortlessly, and he always has a smile on his face. He knows how to read people and has something positive to say no matter the circumstances.  When he applies himself, lessons look easy and he excels in his studies. I’m glad to see Christopher nominated as the Rio Norte SCV Teen Hero.” 

“My mother has had a profound impact on my life,” Christopher said. “She has always been there to support me and for that I am thankful.”

Christopher tells us he enjoys biking with friends, snowboarding, riding motorcycles, and wake boarding.

Christopher’s future goals are to attend the University of California in Los Angeles and to pursue a career as a heart surgeon. 

Brianna Greaney, Saugus High School

Brianna Greaney, is a 11th grade student at Saugus High School and was selected by the school Counselor, Salim Raza.

Brianna Greaney

“Within the last two years Brianna experienced the loss of both her father and brother, and this resulted in some educational setbacks for Brianna” Raza said. “Since then she has regained the necessary strength to return to school and to receive her diploma. This prompted Brianna being selected as a real Teen Hero”

“I have had significant grief to deal with in the last two years” Brianna said when talking about the challenges she has faced. “In order to move forward with my life, I realized I needed to make every effort to overcome the negative.”

“My mom and my stepfather have had a major impact on my life,” Brianna said. “They have supported me in every way, whether it be the decisions I’ve made or the mistakes I’ve had to learn from. They have guided me in the right direction and respected me as an individual.”

Brianna is part of the production staff of the Saugus High School newspaper. Her skills as a production staff helped her gain as part-time job as a production assistant on the hit show “The Voice.” Additionally, she enjoys singing in a local band.

As she looks towards the future, Brianna said “My main goal in life is to be happy and find peace of mind.  I want to live for something I have a real passion for, and I hope I leave this world with something positive to remember me by.”

Magdalena Gomez, Sierra Vista Junior High

Magdalena Gomez is an eighth-grade student at Sierra Vista Junior High School. She was selected by Justine Saunders, her school counselor.

Magdalena Gomez

“Magy is one of those students who strives to make a difference in her own life, as well as in the lives of others,” said Saunders. “She holds herself to a higher standard and is an inspiration to those around her.”

According to Justine Saunders, Magy struggled academically last year and made a conscious decision this year to do well and she has done just that! “She dreams big because she wants a better life for herself and her family,” said Saunders. “Through perseverance and hard work Magy has improved her academics tremendously this year. Her initial 2.1 grade point average moved to a 3.5 grade point average.”

Magy has also overcome a great tragedy in her life. Her dad passed away suddenly in January of this year, and yet she still manages to keep her grades up, maintains a positive attitude, and always has a smile on her face.

Magy tells us that her older sister Joanne inspires her to be the best she can be. “Joanne taught me that ‘you will never know your limits unless you push yourself.’ Because of Joanne, I have tried my best to obtain a good education. 

Magy does a lot of volunteering at her church, donating her time and helping them fundraise.  She is also in the chorus group called Posudas’ and she performs along with her family.

Since Magy’s ultimate goal is to become a veterinarian, she volunteers for an organization called Straightening Reins at a ranch. Their mission is to transform the lives of at-risk youth through animal therapy.

Adrian Barbosa, Valencia High School

Adrian Barbosa, is a 9th grade student at Valencia High School. He was selected by his math teacher, David Inemer.

Adrian Barbosa

“Adrian’s grades were Ds and Fs, with a grade point average of .5. He raised his grades obtaining As and Bs and a 3.52 grade point average,” said David Inemer. “I am so very proud of Adrian’s growth and dedication to school. Every day Adrian leaves the classroom, he shakes my hand and thanks me for teaching him.”

Having low grades was Adrian’s biggest obstacle in life. But his actions to improve his life and school situation were noteworthy. Adrian attended a “Value of an Education” presentation taught by David Inemer. He then immediately enrolled in “How to be a Better Student” program. The program is designed to help all students reach their potential as students and in life. The program taught Adrian tips and tools that helped him improve his learning skills.

“I am thankful for Mr. Inemer’s continued encouragement,” said Adrian. “He has motivated me to become the best I can be. My good grades and strong grade point average attest to the change in my school habits.”

Adrian tells us his future goals include working hard and graduating with a good grade point average. “I then plan to attend a good college,” said Adrian.

Rosa Rodriguez, Hart High School

Rosa Rodriguez

Rosa Rodriguez is a 12th grade student at William S. Hart High School.  She was selected by D. J. Reeher, Recreation Leader II in Teen Room at the Newhall Community Center.

“Rosa is an A+ student,” Reeher said. “She focuses on her education while taking care of her little brother.  She brings him to the center and helps him with his homework while caring for him.  Rosa is currently an honor student with a 3.8 grade point average.

Rosa has overcome several obstacles including moving to another country in the second grade, returning to the United States, and assimilating to the culture.  The passing away of her baby sister was also difficult on the family. During this difficult time, Rosa managed to maintain her grades and avoid negative influences and stay out of trouble. 

Rosa has a great support system. Her parents have had a major impact on her life and they strongly support her commitment and goal to attend medical school and become a doctor.  She made that decision after the passing of her baby sister.

“Rosa is always volunteering for various programs and events,” reported Reeher.  “She volunteered at the Old Town Newhall Library helping to teach a beginner computer class to residents.  She also volunteers at the City of Santa Clarita’s Newhall Community Center and is in a club at school called DFYIT – Drug Free Youth in Town, an anti-drug program sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County Fifth Supervisorial District, and the William S. Hart Union High School District.  Rosa is also active in the Teen Scene program at the Newhall Community Center and attends many City events.”

When asked what her goals were for the future, Rosa said that after she finishes high school she wants to attend UCLA to become a doctor.

Maria Sanders, Bowman High School

Maria Sanders

Maria Sanders is a 12th grade student at Bowman High School. She was selected by Bowman Principal, Robin Geissler.

According to Geissler, Sanders was chosen as the Hero of the Week because of her hard work and perseverance.

Maria has dealt with life obstacles such as growing up without a mom and dad. “I was four or five years of age in the foster system thinking everything was ok, and it wasn’t,” Maria said. “After leaving the foster system at the age of 18 I got pregnant.  Having my baby girl has changed my life a lot.  I make everything happen for her.  She is the reason why I’m going back to school to become a Registered Nurse.”

“My aunt, Christlyn, has had a huge impact on my life,” Maria said. “She has been there for me since my birth, always providing me with positive energy and knowledge.”   

Maria’s 14 year-old cousin plays for the JETS in Lancaster.  “I help his mom with the Spirit Gear for the team,” Maria said.  Maria is participating in both English and Math intervention classes. She also hopes to participate in the Associate Student Body (ASB) program soon.  In the fall, she will be taking a Regional Occupational Program for Pharmacy Assistant classes saying,  “I feel this will help me obtain some medical knowledge as well.” 

Her plan for the immediate future is to graduate from Bowman High School and then attend College of the Canyons and study to become a Registered Nurse.  “Personally, I will continue to be the best mother I can be to my daughter,” Maria said. “I want to show her the positive path of life.”

Maddelyn Flagg, Sequoia High School

Maddelyn Flagg

Maddelyn Flagg is an 11th grade student at Sequoia Charter School. She was selected by Sequoia Principal Brandi Davis.

According to Davis, Flagg was chosen as the Hero of the Week because of her hard work and perseverance.

“This young woman demonstrates phenomenal perseverance in the face of adversity.  She is a gifted artist and writer who works diligently to maintain a high academic standard while striving to be a positive influence among her peers. Maddelyn is amazing and inspiring,” said Brandi Davis. 

Maddelyn has dealt with life obstacles such as growing up without a father in her life.  She also struggled with social anxiety, having been a victim of bullying, which made it hard for her to fit in with her peers.

“One of the greatest losses in my early teens was the loss of my grandmother to cancer, said Maddelyn. “She was very influential my life.”

“My Aunt Dorianne is very influential in my life as well,” Maddelyn said. “She is very hard working and determined and as a result has become a vital mentor, encouraging and teaching me to enjoy each moment in life. Attending Sequoia Charter School has been a positive experience for me. It’s a small school with a therapeutic environment. Teachers are inspiring and students genuinely care for one another.”

Maddelyn enjoys Anime which is a form of Japanese animated production, as well as creative writing and writing poetry.

Her plan for the immediate future is to work in a creative environment and at a well-known bookstore in Santa Clarita. Her long range goals include attending college in Australia. She looks forward to marrying one day, creating a happy family, and being a good mother.

Neighborhood Empowerment Safety Team (NEST)

Since 1991, the Neighborhood Empowerment Safety Team (NEST) (formerly known as the Anti-Gang Task Force) has worked to discourage gang activity, lessen the appeal of gangs, and reduce gang crime in Santa Clarita through partnerships, proactive programming, and networking.

The NEST consists of a Steering Committee and a Gang Outreach Committee.  Members meet quarterly at off-site locations to discuss strategies for addressing local gang issues. 

Santa Clarita Valley Teen Heroes

Local youth are selected by school administrators and are recognized publicly for showing leadership qualities, making a positive change in their life, and overcoming obstacles in their lives. 

For more information about City of Santa Clarita’s Neighborhood Empowerment Safety Team, visit their website here. 

For more information about the SCV Teen Hero program, contact City of Santa Clarita Human Services Coordinator Susie Cordova at (661) 286-4006.