Desert Sands Seniors Shine at Student of the Year Awards

Nine exceptional seniors from across the Coachella Valley were honored at the 2025 Greater Coachella Valley Student of the Year Awards on May 22, at Fantasy Springs. The event, hosted by the Riverside County Office of Education in partnership with local sponsors and OneFuture Coachella Valley, celebrated students who had previously been named Student of the Month.

Among them were Julian Cansino and Kaylee Cuevas, both of Indio High School.

Julian, the October 2024 honoree, was recognized for his involvement in volleyball, marching band, student leadership, and school spirit. He plans to attend College of the Desert and later transfer to pursue a degree in marketing and political science.

Kaylee, December 2024’s honoree, is a standout in the Arts, Media and Entertainment Academy, student government, water polo, and DECA. She will attend UCLA this fall, with the goal of studying political science and a career in community and social services.

Each recipient was awarded $3,750 in scholarships, receiving matching funds from OneFuture Coachella Valley, bringing their total to $5,000.

These students represent the heart and future of DSUSD. Congratulations to all!

Read the full story from RCOE.