GCS Announces the 2025-26 Rising RedHawk Award Winners

The Rising RedHawk Award honors students who have demonstrated exceptional growth during their time in their school building. Selected by their school principal and staff, each recipient represents perseverance, progress, and personal development in areas such as academics, behavior, attendance, leadership, and character. Rather than recognizing only achievement, this award celebrates the journey students have taken to overcome challenges, improve themselves, and make a positive impact within their school community.
One student from each school’s highest grade level is chosen each year, highlighting those who embody the spirit of growth and determination that defines Goshen Community Schools. The Rising RedHawk Award serves as a reminder that success looks different for every student, and that growth, resilience, and hard work deserve to be recognized and celebrated. Here are this year’s winners:
Chamberlain Elementary:
Tate Thompson
4th Grade
Tate has demonstrated remarkable growth throughout his time from kindergarten to fourth grade, with especially meaningful strides over the past year. Academically and behaviorally, his progress has been significant, reflecting a growing sense of responsibility and pride in his work.
His participation, focus, and work ethic have noticeably improved, showing a commitment to doing his best each day. He has made tremendous gains in mathematics and continues to grow as a reader, building confidence along the way.
We are proud to recognize him as a Rising RedHawk. His determination and growth are a testament to what’s possible through hard work and perseverance.
Model Elementary:
Anach-kaily Dorestant
4th Grade
Anach-kaily’s journey is a remarkable example of growth, resilience, and determination. After arriving at Model Elementary from Haiti in January 2024 as a second grader speaking no English, she has made incredible progress in just over two years.
She has not only developed her English skills to the point of passing the IREAD assessment, but has also adapted socially and culturally, building strong friendships along the way. Anach-kaily consistently gives her best effort, asks thoughtful questions, and approaches each day with a willingness to learn.
We are proud to recognize Anach-kaily as a Rising RedHawk. Her hard work, perseverance, and kind heart have made a lasting impact on her school community.
Parkside Elementary:
Hazel Mooney
4th Grade
Hazel has demonstrated tremendous growth in all areas since joining Team Parkside, making her a truly deserving recipient of the Rising RedHawk Award. She consistently shows strong character and determination, approaching her learning with perseverance and a positive mindset.
Hazel is a confident self-advocate who communicates her needs thoughtfully and takes ownership of her growth. In the classroom, she works diligently and takes pride in her efforts, while also showing leadership through her willingness to support and encourage her peers.
We are proud to recognize Hazel as a Rising RedHawk. Her positivity, resilience, and commitment to doing her best each day have made a lasting impact on her school community.
Prairie View Elementary:
Raul Perez
4th Grade
Raul has shown exceptional growth during his time at Prairie View, making meaningful strides both academically and personally. He has made great progress in his language development and continues to grow as a learner each day.
His improved attendance and increased focus reflect a stronger commitment to school, and he is taking greater responsibility for his learning. Raul approaches each day with a growing sense of purpose and determination.
We are proud to recognize Raul as a Rising RedHawk. His growth, effort, and dedication are setting a strong foundation for continued success.
Waterford Elementary:
Liam Centeno Lopez
4th Grade
Liam has demonstrated tremendous growth from kindergarten through fourth grade, showing meaningful progress both academically and behaviorally. Over time, he has developed a strong, positive attitude toward learning and takes pride in the work he does each day.
He actively participates across all subjects and has made significant gains in reading, including passing the IREAD assessment. His growth is also reflected in his IXL data, improved work completion, and a noticeable shift in his attitude toward writing. Just as importantly, Liam has shown great improvement in his behavior, consistently making choices that support his success.
We are proud to recognize Liam as a Rising RedHawk. His positivity, perseverance, and dedication to growth have made a lasting impact on his classroom and school community.
West Goshen Elementary:
Oliver Calderon Reyes
4th Grade
Oliver comes to school each day with a positive attitude and a strong commitment to doing his best. He has shown consistent growth over time, working hard and refusing to give up—even when faced with challenges.
He serves as a role model through his behavior and attendance, setting a positive example for those around him. His effort and determination have led to meaningful academic gains.
We are proud to recognize Oliver as a Rising RedHawk. His perseverance, resilience, and commitment to continuous improvement have made a lasting impact on his school community.
Goshen Intermediate School:
Xiomara Lopez Sanchez
6th Grade
Xiomara has demonstrated outstanding integrity and kindness during her time at GIS, consistently looking out for the well-being of others. She takes initiative to support her peers, even bringing students to the counselors’ office when she recognizes they may need additional help.
Her leadership is evident in her willingness to go above and beyond—most notably through developing a proposal for an after-school program designed to provide peer support for students who need it most. Xiomara leads with empathy and purpose, always striving to make her school a better place.
We are proud to recognize Xiomara as a Rising RedHawk. Her compassion, initiative, and commitment to others have made a meaningful and lasting impact on her school community.
Goshen Junior High School:
Angel Herrera
8th Grade
Angel has distinguished himself as a leader both on the soccer field and in the classroom. He is also actively involved in the community through his participation in orchestra, where he shares his talent as a violinist.
Angel consistently shows respect toward others and takes initiative in his learning, often checking in with Dr. Baker to reflect on his progress and identify ways to improve. His dedication and effort were also recognized through his writing, earning him a $500 scholarship for the 2026 Washington, D.C. trip.
We are proud to recognize Angel as a Rising RedHawk. His leadership, responsibility, and kindness reflect the growth he has made into a well-rounded and thoughtful young man.
Goshen Alternative Program:
Corbin Rowe
12th Grade
Corbin’s journey is a powerful example of growth and perseverance. When he arrived at GAP during his junior year, he had few credits earned and faced both academic and personal challenges. Through determination and hard work, he made a remarkable turnaround—earning credits through dual enrollment and completing his graduation requirements ahead of schedule.
Over time, Corbin began taking ownership of his actions and his future, showing increased responsibility, focus, and a commitment to success. He also embraced opportunities to grow beyond the classroom, building important life and job skills.
We are proud to recognize Corbin as a Rising RedHawk. His resilience and determination reflect just how far he has come.
Goshen High School:
Dyashia Myers (Pictured)
12th Grade
Throughout her time at Goshen High School, Dyashia has demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a passion for serving others. As a Drum Major and a student in the Education Professionals program, she has consistently sought out opportunities to lead and make a positive impact.
What makes her journey especially meaningful is the growth she has shown over the past four years—developing confidence, responsibility, and a strong sense of purpose.
We are proud to recognize Dyashia as a Rising RedHawk. Her leadership and commitment to growth have made a lasting impact on her school community.
