Agoura High School students find new ways to learn
By John Loesing
Acorn Staff Writer

HONORED-Agoura High School counselor Joel Barr (at podium) announces National Merit Scholarship finalists that include (from left to right): Brent Longstaff, Jonathan Elkin, Lisa Martin and Danny Garfield. These Agoura High School seniors were honored at a special awards assembly attended by family, friends and dignitaries. Several other AHS students earned recognition, too. LISA ADAMS/The Acorn

From automobiles to opera, Agoura High School students are branching out into areas you wouldn’t believe.

Last week, 26 students received recognition for a variety of first-semester accomplishments both in the classroom and in the community.

Parents, teachers, administrators and public officials were on hand to offer their applause.

Emily Eslami, Jessica Richmond and Linnet Zia took first place in a competition at the Los Angeles Music Center that tested their knowledge about the meaning and history of opera.

The girls answered oral and written questions on everything from Wagner to Verdi in the event sponsored by the New York Metropolitan Opera.

Two students earned second place in a competition about automobiles.

Ryan Kelly and Ethan Johnson were runners up in a test of automotive repair skills during last month’s Greater Los Angeles Auto Show.

"We wanted to make sure all students are recognized for their contributions across the board," said Larry Misel, Agoura High principal.

James Deavenport entered a contest in which he wrote an autobiographical essay that was selected for printing in a new 10th grade literature textbook.

Publisher Prentice Hall offered to pay Deavenport for his contribution.

Michael Lieberman might have found his calling in law.

Lieberman went to Los Angeles to participate in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Law, and impressed the experts so much with his understanding of the United States Constitution that his legal skills will be on display later this month in a competition at the Ventura County Courthouse.

In addition to her opera venture, Zia traveled to Sacramento for a student leadership conference. Competing against 200 others, Zia became one of three finalists to serve as the upcoming student representative for the California Board of Education.

If selected, she’ll serve more than 6 million students.

Zia has a 4.21 grade point average, is an active volunteer at Los Robles Regional Medical Center, and is involved in Math Honors Society and student council.

"They excel in areas you’d never anticipate," said teacher Jason Busby, the school’s student council coordinator.

Zia is a councilmember.

"This to me is the true Olympics for youth," said Agoura Hills Mayor Denis Weber.

"They showcase their talents and opportunities."

Jessica Green and Sean Ptacek earned kudos for their role in a national Hispanic recognition program, while 17 students were singled out for their high marks in the National Merit Scholarship competition.

One of scholars, 18-year-old Brian Park, also serves as the captain of the school’s track and cross-country team.

Park might attend UCLA.

"He’s not sure, but he’s thinking about medicine," said Sue Park, Brian’s mother.

National Merit Scholars have to score in the top 5 percent statewide. "Students, we are extremely proud of you," Misel told the kids.