Colusa County Office of Education’s 2026 Caring Youth Count honorees at the April 1 awards ceremony recognizing 23 students for service, resilience and strength of character.WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) – The Colusa County Office of Education recognized 23 students April 1 during its annual Caring Youth Count Awards, honoring young people who have made a positive impact on their schools, peers and community.
The program, created in 2005 by local education and community leaders, highlights students whose actions reflect service, resilience and strength of character. Organizers said the award is noncompetitive and focuses on recognizing contributions that often go unnoticed.
“These actions reflect values that are deeply rooted in a person’s character,” said Superintendent Charles Wayman. “The students we honor tonight have made a difference through their actions.”
This year’s honorees span elementary through high school and represent districts across Colusa County.
Several students were recognized for a shared community service effort through Girl Scout Troop 3804. Aurora Avera, Kinslie Barry, Skyler Deras, Paisley Radar and Piper Rogers helped lead “Project Thank You Military,” working with Tri-Counties Blue Star Moms to assemble more than 500 care packages for active military members overseas. Each contributed more than 25 hours of service and earned the Bronze Award.
Other students were recognized for individual acts of service. Isaiah Gomez of Pierce Unified has been growing his hair to donate to cancer patients and volunteers at church events. Natalie Jimenez Jauregui of Williams Unified supports school recycling efforts and volunteers both on campus and in her community. Evelyn Guevara, also of Williams Unified, was recognized for leadership in Future Farmers of America, serving as associated student body president and mentoring younger members.
Several students were honored for resilience in the face of personal challenges. Edgar Duarte Ambriz of Princeton Unified returned to school after a serious accident and continues to participate despite limited mobility. Scarlett Hamilton of Pierce Unified was recognized for overcoming significant personal hardship with determination and a positive outlook.
Carmen J. Jimenez and Jesus Juarez Jimenez, both Colusa County Office of Education students, were also recognized for resilience. Nominators described their ability to continue pursuing education and personal growth despite difficult circumstances.
Other students were honored for strength of character demonstrated in daily actions. Emma Doble, a kindergarten student at Colusa Unified, was recognized for consistently helping classmates and seeking ways to serve others. Aidan England of Colusa Unified was noted for his quiet leadership, respect and willingness to help peers.
Natalie Manhart of Pierce Unified was recognized for leadership as an ASB officer and her involvement in school activities. Alondra Melendrez, also of Pierce Unified, was described as a peer leader who supports classmates with patience and integrity.
Kali McCloud and Zachariah McCloud were both recognized for perseverance and positive attitudes, with nominators highlighting their commitment to learning and helping others despite challenges.
High school honoree Evelyn Mendez Garcia of Williams Unified received recognition in all three categories. A volunteer boxing coach, she was nominated by multiple individuals for helping empower others while also supporting her family and maintaining strong academics.
Additional honorees included Ryan Cortez, Elaine Fred, Sophia Rabena and Shaleen Orr, each recognized for contributions ranging from peer support and leadership to overcoming adversity.
Wayman said the qualities recognized are often shown without recognition but shape the culture of schools and communities.
“Sometimes doing the right thing is hard,” he said. “These students do it anyway.”