Beneath the soft glow of stage lights and a backdrop of gold and white flowers, the Thomas Downey High School auditorium transformed into a place of celebration on April 2. Two towering balloon pillars marked the year “2025,” while the American and California flags flanked the stage. The district seal stood proudly on a navy-draped table, ready to honor students from across Modesto City Schools (MCS) who embody the core values of character.
Each year, MCS celebrates students through its Character Education program, recognizing two scholars from every school who exemplify the values engraved on the district’s character medal: civility, compassion, courage, honesty, initiative, loyalty, perseverance, respect, and responsibility. The strides these students are making are at the heart of the district’s mission.
Behind this special evening is a team of dedicated staff who bring it to life.
The Downey custodial team, led by César Orozco, prepared the auditorium with care — placing chairs, arranging tables, and ensuring the space was ready to welcome hundreds of guests.
"It’s all about creating a memorable experience for everyone," Orozco said. "We want the students to feel as special as they truly are."
Administrative assistants to the Executive Cabinet arrived early to set up and decorate tables with vibrant event programs. As students checked in, Associate Superintendent Mike Rich and Senior Director of Maintenance and Operations and Transportation Roger Orth greeted them with uplifting words and warm pep talks, setting a celebratory tone for the night ahead.
"It’s inspiring to see so many students embodying the values of character," said Orth. "These young leaders are shaping the future of our community."
The stage was brought to life with stunning floral arrangements, thoughtfully crafted by Beyer High School floral design students under the guidance of teacher Susan Beatty.
“The floral designs are an expression of the beauty and strength of these students," Beatty said. "As a teacher, it makes me proud to see my floral design students showcase the skills they’ve learned in class, especially at an event like the Eddies.”
Following a welcome from Superintendent Sara Noguchi, the evening’s recognitions began.
A dynamic slideshow and livestream, managed by the VISCOM program at Downey High and led by Career Technical Education (CTE) instructors René Guevara, Tim Vesey, and Heath Grant, added a visual storytelling element to the evening. The livestream was a new element to the Eddies this year, added to allow those who could not attend in person to watch the event. As of the time of publication, it had nearly 300 views. The visuals were all accompanied by audio direction from Jesse Guzman, groundskeeper at Downey.
A combined choral ensemble from Enochs and Beyer High Schools, directed by music teacher Katie Carbajal, set a harmonious tone with a powerful performance of the national anthem.
Elementary and secondary students were honored in waves, announced by Senior Directors Danielle Hinkle, Ernesto Calderon, Nathan Schar, and Rachelle Barkus. Students received their medallions on stage from MCS Board President Abel Maestas and were congratulated by Board Vice President Homero Mejia, Trustee Chad Brown, and Dr. Noguchi.
Among the audience, District Translator and Interpreter Paula Valbuena León provided live Spanish interpretation through headsets, ensuring every family could fully experience the evening.
"This award is especially meaningful because it highlights Modesto City Schools’ long-standing commitment to character education, a pledge made back in 1998 — more than 25 years ago,” Noguchi shared with the crowd.
In total, 68 students representing 34 school sites were recognized for living the values that define strong character.
Post-ceremony, families were invited to enjoy an assortment of baked goods and refreshments in the cafeteria—thoughtfully prepared and arranged by the Nutrition Services culinary team.
From the earliest moments of setup to the final round of applause, the 2025 Eddies ceremony stood as a collective effort—a tribute not only to the students honored but to the village of educators, artists, technicians, and support staff who made it all possible.
"This event truly showcases the power of collaboration," said Sharokina Shams, chief communications officer, whose team planned the event. "It takes a village to recognize and celebrate the strength of character in our students – to say nothing of the daily effort put forth by the many teachers, coaches, counselors, paraprofessionals, and site administrators who help instill these character traits."
