James Chapman and Madison Villarruel were honored as September Students of the Month at the Burney Lions Club on Thursday evening September 21. Chapman was named 12th grade student of the month and Villarruel was named 8th grade student of the month.
BHS Principal Ray Guerrero, James Chapman, Madison Villarruel, and Lion President Daryl Hovis
The students were introduced by Burney High School Principal Ray Guerrero. Burney Lions Club President Daryl Hovis presented each of the students with a check. James Chapman was awarded $100, and Madison Villarruel received $50.
Senior James Chapman has a grade point average of 4.0. He is a member of the Boy Scouts, Leos, Interact, California Scholarship Federation, Peer Mentoring, and College Options. He played on Burney High School’s championship 2017 baseball team. James is also president of the student body.
He enjoys Scouting and building models of vehicles and buildings. He is good at tying knots. In his free time, he likes watching television. He would like to travel abroad.
After graduating from high school, James plans to go to college and earn a degree in mechanical engineering. After receiving his degree he intends to join the Navy.
James’ dad George is a member of the Lions and was present to see his son receive the award. His mother Cheri and brother Thomas also came. Mrs. Chapman said her son is a “go-getter.”
Eighth-grader Madison Villarruel also has a 4.0 grade point average. She plays basketball and volleyball on the school team. She excels in art. She likes to paint and draw and her work was recognized at a county art exhibition. She especially likes to draw flowers.
During her free time, Madison likes to spend time with her friends and family. Her mother and father, Robert and Sophia Villarruel attended the presentation at the Lions together with her younger sister Mackenzie and her cousin Vanessa. Her mother spoke briefly of how proud she was of Madison.
Madison hopes to learn to play piano. In the future she plans to attend college and pursue a career in the medical field.
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