The City Council of Cathedral City unveiled two new street signs today that honors two high school students from Cathedral City for their academic excellence. The Annual Student Street Naming Ceremonies recognized Ms. Daniela Castillo of Cathedral City High School and Ms. Yvette Munoz-Duarte of Mount San Jacinto High School by renaming the street adjacent to their respective schools in their honor for one year. Present were Councilmembers Mark Carnevale, Ernesto Gutierrez and Rita Lamb.
Ms. Daniela Castillo
Graduating with an earned 4.70 GPA at Cathedral City High School, Daniela has excelled in academics as well as athletics. She served as the executive vice president of the Associated Student Body as well as a member of the health academy, HEAL, and many other student clubs. Daniela volunteered at Eisenhower Hospital and her church, Our Lady of Solitude, and she participated in the Desert Youth Town Hall program. An avid runner, she excelled on CCHS’ varsity track and cross country teams and placed fourth as an All Desert Valley League Cross Country runner. Upon graduation, Daniela plans to attend University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Public Health. Additionally, she plans to join the Peace Corps as a health volunteer.
Yvette Munoz-Duarte
Completing her graduating requirements early, Yvette has turned her previous academic struggles around and gained the confidence needed to excel in life. In middle school and during the first two years of high school, Yvette was shy, struggled with reading, and lacked self-confidence. With the help of her teachers, counselors, family and friends, Yvette has since achieved academic success and is currently enrolled at College of the Desert in pursuit of a career in Nursing.  Her grandfather, who is deceased, recognized and stated to her that everyone has a “special power.” Yvette believes hers is with her healing hands. With a little motivation, Yvette is a prime example of how alternative education can connect with students, lift their confidence and change their life’s trajectory.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s honorees, their family and dignitaries all wore facial coverings and did their best to social distance while still capturing this monumental moment in these students’ lives. Congratulations to this year’s honorees and best wishes on your very bright futures.
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