Banning Unified School District proudly celebrated two extraordinary students as December’s Students of the Month during a special breakfast held at Sizzlers in Banning. Honorees Megan Brown from Banning Independent Study School and Marquis Stewart-Vaughn from Banning High School were recognized for their academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to their school and community. Students from the Beaumont Unified School District were also honored, reflecting a community-wide commitment to excellence.
“We are incredibly proud of Megan and Marquis. Both have overcome life’s obstacles with resilience and determination, and they continue to inspire us with their success and dedication,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “They truly embody the spirit of our District by demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a commitment to excellence that uplifts their peers and community.”
Marquis Stewart-Vaughn: A Scholar-Athlete with a Winning Spirit
Marquis Stewart-Vaughn, a student at Banning High School, is a star both on and off the field. Recognized as a scholar-athlete, Marquis excels as a quarterback on the football team and as a baseball player while maintaining a strong academic record. Known for his kindness, determination, and adaptability, he has overcome the challenges of being deaf and hard of hearing, learning ASL by sixth grade and thriving in general education courses.
Described by Principal Artudo Paz as “always smiling,” Marquis has inspired his peers with his positivity and words of encouragement. He also supports English learner students and serves as a role model for his younger brother. Marquis’s journey through multiple schools due to limited resources for deaf and hard-of-hearing students has not deterred him. Instead, it has fueled his adaptability and resolve to succeed.
Marquis plans to attend a four-year university to study bio-engineering, with aspirations of playing professional baseball in the MLB. “No matter how hard life can be, I will motivate myself to move forward,” he shared, crediting his grandfather’s lessons on perseverance. In the future, Marquis hopes to return to Banning to inspire other students and show them that success is possible, regardless of obstacles.
Marquis was also featured on the Banning USD Real Talk Podcast, where he shared his inspiring story of resilience and ambition.(https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217443/episodes/15825625)
Megan Brown: A Leader with a Heart for Service
Megan Brown, a long-time student of Banning Independent Study School, exemplifies leadership and kindness. Described by her teachers as outgoing, fun, and highly recommended, Megan is known for her self-sufficiency and dedication to helping others. A “lifer” at Banning Independent Study School, she has developed independence and proven her ability to succeed academically and socially.
Her community involvement shines through her work with the Link Crew, where she helps underclassmen feel connected to their school. Megan recently worked at a polling site during the election, gaining firsthand experience with civic engagement and governance. Reflecting on her role, Megan shared, “I wanted to ensure voters had a positive experience because one bad interaction can discourage someone from voting again.”
Megan is grateful for this recognition and plans to pursue a degree in psychology. She hopes to earn a master’s degree and potentially become a therapist, valuing the importance of having someone to talk to. Having faced personal challenges, including navigating her father’s life-altering stroke, Megan has learned to persevere and care for herself while inspiring others with her strength and compassion.
Scholarship Opportunity for Students of the Month
All Student of the Month recipients are invited to apply for the Student of the Year Scholarship in the spring. This scholarship evaluates students on their grades, community involvement, recommendations, and essays, with the final selection made by a panel of sponsors and community leaders.
Banning Unified School District is proud to honor Megan Brown and Marquis Stewart-Vaughn, whose achievements and contributions exemplify the District’s values of resilience, leadership, and community commitment.
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