A Modesto Teachers Modesto Teachers Association Scholarship Recipients Modesto Teachers Association Cecil Curfman Memorial Scholarship 2026 Recipients Jon Walther Memorial Teaching Scholarship 2026 Recipients Student School Student School Quinn Cannizzaro Downey Zane Gerbo Rhealynn Parra Beyer Davis Dallas Guzman Downey Mariela Pulido Beyer Karis Heintz Enochs Healani Canales Downey Brent Krueger Modesto Jack Hayes Downey Nolan Moffett Gregori Kiana Chavez Enochs Melaina Farrens Gregori Kasey Bunning Johansen Frank Vandervort Memorial Scholarship 2026 Recipients Quinn Cannizzaro Irelynn King Downey Gregori Quinn Cannizzaro is the son of Julia Quinn, Downey's Teacher Librarian. He is a dedicated AVID participant and athlete in both cross country and track and field. Dr. Jonathan Burton, Quinn's Honors Physics and AP Calculus teacher, described Quinn as "a capable and determined young adult who is willing to put in the effort necessary to succeed." Through Science Olympiad, he developed a passion for STEM and problem-solving, and will attend UC Davis to study Civil Engineering. As the son of a teacher Quinn Cannizzaro and the grandson of a retired teacher, he highly values education and the impact of dedicated educators. Downey Zane Gerbo Davis Dallas Guzman Downey Karis Heintz Enochs Brent Krueger Modesto Nolan Moffett Gregori Irelynn King Gregori Zane Gerbo plans to attend CSU Fresno and major in business, with the long-term goal of becoming a successful entrepreneur, to one day own and operate his own business. One main priority while at Fresno State is to enter adult life with little to no student debt. His father, Ian Gerbo, teaches Govemment and Economics at Grace Davis High School. "To me, Zane is much more than just a high school student in the way he thinks, presents himself, and conducts his life. Truly, Zane is knowledgeable, informed, and curious about life, not just academia, and this makes for a well-rounded young man." Christina Welch, Gov/Economics teacher Dallas Guzman will attend UC Irvine, major in Film and Media Studies, and pursue a career in photojournalism, using visual storytelling to capture meaningful moments and bring attention to voices that often go unheard. Dallas is the son of Yesenia Guzman, the AVID coordinator at Downey. Throughout high school, he has shown a strong sense of curiosity, leadership, and a willingness to keep growing. As English teacher Brooke Plaa explains, "His leadership style reflects both confidence and empathy-qualities that make him highly respected by his peers." Dallas is excited to continue developing his creativity in his next chapter. Karis Heintz plans to attend Boise State University to major in kinesiology with an emphasis on rehabilitation sciences. She plans to go to graduate school to pursue a career in occupational therapy. Her parents, Lori and Tony Heintz, both work at Johansen. Science teacher Taryn Huggins states, "She is respectful, dependable, kind, and driven. She balances her academic responsibilities with extracurricular involvement while remaining humble and compassionate." Karis has been involved in leadership and is a part of CSF honors. Additionally, she has taken multiple dual enrollment classes through Modesto Junior College. Brent Krueger has a passion for filmmaking. He will attend Long Island University to pursue a career in cinematography and screenwriting. Brent's IB HL Spanish teacher, Señora Liliana Acosta-Duarte, describes him as "a spirited person who is able to take any challenge and successfully achieve it." Brent aspires to become a filmmaker and author who uses storytelling to combat world issues like war, inequality, and greed. His ultimate goal is to create a television show about teaching, inspired by his parents' stories from their time as high school teachers. Brent's father, Derek Krueger, is a math teacher at Modesto High. Nolan Moffett plans to attend Modesto Junior College. He intends to pursue a career as a firefighter and in his free time coach youth wrestling. His mother, Katie Moffett, is a 1st grade teacher at Enslen. From athletic director Jim Davis: "The quality of his character is such that if I were ever fortunate enough to have children, the example that Nolan sets on a daily basis is the example that I would want my children to follow." Nolan achieved a 5 on the AP Human Geography and AP Statistics tests, a 4 on the AP US History exam. Nolan competed at the CA state wrestling tournament and holds Gregori's record for most varsity wins for boys. Irelynn King will graduate with honors as a CSF lifetime member in the top 5% of her class. Her father, Chad King, is a computer literacy teacher at Bret Harte Elementary. Irelynn will attend CSU Fresno to pursue a degree in civil engineering. She hopes with her passion for mathematics, engineering, and architecture to one day open her own architectural design firm. Irelynn's math teacher, Kari Dykes, shares: "In addition to Irelynn's academic strengths, she is kind, respectful, and well-liked by teachers and students. I am confident she will bring the same dedication, reliability, and integrity that she has shown in the classroom." Rhealynn Parra Beyer Mariela Pulido Beyer Healani Canales Downey Jack Hayes Downey Kiana Chavez Enochs Melaina Farrens Gregori Kasey Bunning Johansen Rhealynn Parra is currently captain of her school's robotics team and a member of the California Scholarship Federation. This fall, she will attend CSU Long Beach to eam her degree in Liberal Studies, which she will use to become an elementary school teacher. Her inspiration comes from her volunteer experience teaching young children about STEM at robotics outreach events. Karla Valencia- Nunez, Beyer's Robotics Engineering Instructor, remarked, "Rhealynn is a student of remarkable integrity, initiative, and compassion...[she] will go on to become an outstanding educator who positively impacts those around her." Mariela Pulido plans to attend Modesto Junior College, then transfer to Stanislaus State University. She wants to become a music teacher to assist students on their journey to discover their full potential. She wants to be that trusted person who students can talk to despite their life circumstances. Elizabeth Rowan, Mariela's English teacher states, "Mariela is exceptionally kind and thoughtful. She cares for everyone around her and makes everyone feel seen and heard. She has a heart of gold and a mind of steel. She will be an excellent teacher some day and will truly make a positive impact on the world." Healani Canales plans to attend CSU Chico to major in Agricultural Education & Science. As a high school ag educator, she will inspire future students to explore the agriculture industry. She has been actively involved in FFA as a Chapter and Section Officer, a ranch-hand for a local show pig breeder, and has raised market hogs. Future goals include creating a welcoming classroom environment, mentoring students, and spreading ag literacy. As Megan Rivera, her Ag Science teacher shares, "It is clear to see the devotion and excitement she carries. Her passion for agriculture and constant drive to work is inspiring" Jack Hayes plans to attend CSU Stanislaus, majoring in mathematics. After earning his teaching credential, Jack's dream is to return to Downey High as a math teacher. Throughout his high school career, Jack has been taught by an entourage of fantastic teachers, one of whom, Dr. Jonathan Burton, had this to say: "Jack is a remarkable young man, with a strong intellect and innate leadership skills." Jack's will to go into teaching has also been shaped by the many trials and tribulations he's gone through during his time at Downey, and he hopes that as a teacher he will be able to guide others away from making similar mistakes. Kiana Chavez is a lifetime CSF member and recipient of the Seal of Biliteracy. Kiana took rigorous AP classes and Dual Enrollment courses at Modesto Junior College to prepare for her career. Kiana will attend CSU Stanislaus this fall to pursue a double major in English and Spanish, followed by a credential program. Her goal is to teach English to help students leam and improve their literacy and communication skills, to make an impact on students' lives, provide them with greater opportunities, and benefit society. Her teacher concurs: "Her dedication, strength, personal motivation, and love for leaming will inspire youth for years to come." Melaina Farrens has spent over a decade giving back through Girl Scouts, eaming her Gold Award by partnering with the Modesto Children's Museum to create Sensory-Friendly Saturdays. A dedicated cheerleader, she loves school spirit, teamwork, and leadership, and is a member of the Stanislaus County Leadership Academy. She will attend Cal Poly SLO to major in education to become a teacher who creates inclusive, supportive classrooms. As Joseph Orlando (MJC English) states, "Melaina has distinguished herself through strong academic achievement, thoughtful leadership, and a sustained commitment to service." Kasey Bunning is heading to the University of Nevada, Reno to major in Music Education. He plans to eam a Masters and possibly a PhD, with the dream of becoming a doctoral-level educator. A talented multi-instrumentalist, Kasey performs in various ensembles on the Baritone and Tenor saxophones and with his indoor drumline on snare. At Johansen, he received the Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award and has served as Band Council Vice President and Head Equipment Manager. His English teacher Julie Gwynn notes, "Kasey consistently impresses me with his dedication, kindness, leadership, and his ability to manage his time." A Modesto Teachers Modesto Teachers Association Scholarship Recipients Modesto Teachers Association Cecil Curfman Memorial Scholarship 2026 Recipients Jon Walther Memorial Teaching Scholarship 2026 Recipients Student School Student School Quinn Cannizzaro Downey Zane Gerbo Rhealynn Parra Beyer Davis Dallas Guzman Downey Mariela Pulido Beyer Karis Heintz Enochs Healani Canales Downey Brent Krueger Modesto Jack Hayes Downey Nolan Moffett Gregori Kiana Chavez Enochs Melaina Farrens Gregori Kasey Bunning Johansen Frank Vandervort Memorial Scholarship 2026 Recipients Quinn Cannizzaro Irelynn King Downey Gregori Quinn Cannizzaro is the son of Julia Quinn , Downey's Teacher Librarian . He is a dedicated AVID participant and athlete in both cross country and track and field . Dr. Jonathan Burton , Quinn's Honors Physics and AP Calculus teacher , described Quinn as " a capable and determined young adult who is willing to put in the effort necessary to succeed . " Through Science Olympiad , he developed a passion for STEM and problem - solving , and will attend UC Davis to study Civil Engineering . As the son of a teacher Quinn Cannizzaro and the grandson of a retired teacher , he highly values education and the impact of dedicated educators . Downey Zane Gerbo Davis Dallas Guzman Downey Karis Heintz Enochs Brent Krueger Modesto Nolan Moffett Gregori Irelynn King Gregori Zane Gerbo plans to attend CSU Fresno and major in business , with the long - term goal of becoming a successful entrepreneur , to one day own and operate his own business . One main priority while at Fresno State is to enter adult life with little to no student debt . His father , Ian Gerbo , teaches Govemment and Economics at Grace Davis High School . " To me , Zane is much more than just a high school student in the way he thinks , presents himself , and conducts his life . Truly , Zane is knowledgeable , informed , and curious about life , not just academia , and this makes for a well - rounded young man . " Christina Welch , Gov / Economics teacher Dallas Guzman will attend UC Irvine , major in Film and Media Studies , and pursue a career in photojournalism , using visual storytelling to capture meaningful moments and bring attention to voices that often go unheard . Dallas is the son of Yesenia Guzman , the AVID coordinator at Downey . Throughout high school , he has shown a strong sense of curiosity , leadership , and a willingness to keep growing . As English teacher Brooke Plaa explains , " His leadership style reflects both confidence and empathy - qualities that make him highly respected by his peers . " Dallas is excited to continue developing his creativity in his next chapter . Karis Heintz plans to attend Boise State University to major in kinesiology with an emphasis on rehabilitation sciences . She plans to go to graduate school to pursue a career in occupational therapy . Her parents , Lori and Tony Heintz , both work at Johansen . Science teacher Taryn Huggins states , " She is respectful , dependable , kind , and driven . She balances her academic responsibilities with extracurricular involvement while remaining humble and compassionate . " Karis has been involved in leadership and is a part of CSF honors . Additionally , she has taken multiple dual enrollment classes through Modesto Junior College . Brent Krueger has a passion for filmmaking . He will attend Long Island University to pursue a career in cinematography and screenwriting . Brent's IB HL Spanish teacher , Señora Liliana Acosta - Duarte , describes him as " a spirited person who is able to take any challenge and successfully achieve it . " Brent aspires to become a filmmaker and author who uses storytelling to combat world issues like war , inequality , and greed . His ultimate goal is to create a television show about teaching , inspired by his parents ' stories from their time as high school teachers . Brent's father , Derek Krueger , is a math teacher at Modesto High . Nolan Moffett plans to attend Modesto Junior College . He intends to pursue a career as a firefighter and in his free time coach youth wrestling . His mother , Katie Moffett , is a 1st grade teacher at Enslen . From athletic director Jim Davis : " The quality of his character is such that if I were ever fortunate enough to have children , the example that Nolan sets on a daily basis is the example that I would want my children to follow . " Nolan achieved a 5 on the AP Human Geography and AP Statistics tests , a 4 on the AP US History exam . Nolan competed at the CA state wrestling tournament and holds Gregori's record for most varsity wins for boys . Irelynn King will graduate with honors as a CSF lifetime member in the top 5 % of her class . Her father , Chad King , is a computer literacy teacher at Bret Harte Elementary . Irelynn will attend CSU Fresno to pursue a degree in civil engineering . She hopes with her passion for mathematics , engineering , and architecture to one day open her own architectural design firm . Irelynn's math teacher , Kari Dykes , shares : " In addition to Irelynn's academic strengths , she is kind , respectful , and well - liked by teachers and students . I am confident she will bring the same dedication , reliability , and integrity that she has shown in the classroom . " Rhealynn Parra Beyer Mariela Pulido Beyer Healani Canales Downey Jack Hayes Downey Kiana Chavez Enochs Melaina Farrens Gregori Kasey Bunning Johansen Rhealynn Parra is currently captain of her school's robotics team and a member of the California Scholarship Federation . This fall , she will attend CSU Long Beach to eam her degree in Liberal Studies , which she will use to become an elementary school teacher . Her inspiration comes from her volunteer experience teaching young children about STEM at robotics outreach events . Karla Valencia- Nunez , Beyer's Robotics Engineering Instructor , remarked , " Rhealynn is a student of remarkable integrity , initiative , and compassion ... [ she ] will go on to become an outstanding educator who positively impacts those around her . " Mariela Pulido plans to attend Modesto Junior College , then transfer to Stanislaus State University . She wants to become a music teacher to assist students on their journey to discover their full potential . She wants to be that trusted person who students can talk to despite their life circumstances . Elizabeth Rowan , Mariela's English teacher states , " Mariela is exceptionally kind and thoughtful . She cares for everyone around her and makes everyone feel seen and heard . She has a heart of gold and a mind of steel . She will be an excellent teacher some day and will truly make a positive impact on the world . " Healani Canales plans to attend CSU Chico to major in Agricultural Education & Science . As a high school ag educator , she will inspire future students to explore the agriculture industry . She has been actively involved in FFA as a Chapter and Section Officer , a ranch - hand for a local show pig breeder , and has raised market hogs . Future goals include creating a welcoming classroom environment , mentoring students , and spreading ag literacy . As Megan Rivera , her Ag Science teacher shares , " It is clear to see the devotion and excitement she carries . Her passion for agriculture and constant drive to work is inspiring " Jack Hayes plans to attend CSU Stanislaus , majoring in mathematics . After earning his teaching credential , Jack's dream is to return to Downey High as a math teacher . Throughout his high school career , Jack has been taught by an entourage of fantastic teachers , one of whom , Dr. Jonathan Burton , had this to say : " Jack is a remarkable young man , with a strong intellect and innate leadership skills . " Jack's will to go into teaching has also been shaped by the many trials and tribulations he's gone through during his time at Downey , and he hopes that as a teacher he will be able to guide others away from making similar mistakes . Kiana Chavez is a lifetime CSF member and recipient of the Seal of Biliteracy . Kiana took rigorous AP classes and Dual Enrollment courses at Modesto Junior College to prepare for her career . Kiana will attend CSU Stanislaus this fall to pursue a double major in English and Spanish , followed by a credential program . Her goal is to teach English to help students leam and improve their literacy and communication skills , to make an impact on students ' lives , provide them with greater opportunities , and benefit society . Her teacher concurs : " Her dedication , strength , personal motivation , and love for leaming will inspire youth for years to come . " Melaina Farrens has spent over a decade giving back through Girl Scouts , eaming her Gold Award by partnering with the Modesto Children's Museum to create Sensory - Friendly Saturdays . A dedicated cheerleader , she loves school spirit , teamwork , and leadership , and is a member of the Stanislaus County Leadership Academy . She will attend Cal Poly SLO to major in education to become a teacher who creates inclusive , supportive classrooms . As Joseph Orlando ( MJC English ) states , " Melaina has distinguished herself through strong academic achievement , thoughtful leadership , and a sustained commitment to service . " Kasey Bunning is heading to the University of Nevada , Reno to major in Music Education . He plans to eam a Masters and possibly a PhD , with the dream of becoming a doctoral - level educator . A talented multi - instrumentalist , Kasey performs in various ensembles on the Baritone and Tenor saxophones and with his indoor drumline on snare . At Johansen , he received the Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award and has served as Band Council Vice President and Head Equipment Manager . His English teacher Julie Gwynn notes , " Kasey consistently impresses me with his dedication , kindness , leadership , and his ability to manage his time . "