The Roosevelt Review recognizes Aydan Cortez, a sophomore here at ERHS as January’s Student Spotlight for his impact and participation in throughout our community. Cortez is an eSTEM student here at Roosevelt and is a player on the rugby club sport.

Advance Placement European History teacher, Mr. Knight selected Cortez to be spotlighted because, “He is a hard worker, always comes in with a great attitude, and has really made a lot of progress in my class.  He is a really good kid and a pleasure to have in class.”

Cortez’s Life before ERHS

Cortez was born in a Bay Area city named San Pablo, where he then moved to Oceanview Elementary School in Albany, CA. Cortez received an education in various schools through the Bay Area until fifth grade when he moved to Southern California, more specifically, Glendora until sixth grade.

Beginning middle school, Cortez moved to Eastvale where he attended Dr. Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School making lasting friendships that he still has now in high school.

Cortez’s Life at ERHS

Since Cortez is a sophomore during this school year, he decided to venture into his first AP class, AP European History. Cortez believes his experience in the AP is that, “I have never taken a class like this and for me it was a huge leap and risk, knowing it would be stressful, but I knew if I just focused I would be able to make it, although I have to say Mr. Knight’s class is tough . I am doing very well in the class, although at first I started off not so well, but I just had to keep focused, study more, be determined, and manage my time and I’ve been able to stay afloat.”

In addition to his academic work, Cortez is also involved in the rugby program here at Roosevelt. Cortez enjoys playing rugby and says, “I really enjoy it, for  me it showed me what it is to be part of a team and feel like you’re part of a family…rugby is truly good sport and I’ve been able to make really good friends.”

Final Thoughts

Recent achievements and moments of pride that Cortez has had was receiving and maintaining an honor roll status and an average GPA of 3.5 since middle school. Additionally, Cortez has had the prestige of being recognized as student of the month throughout his elementary and middle schooling.

Lastly, Cortez would like to thank his mother by saying, “I would like to add that I am who I am because of my mom. She pushes me everyday to be better and has shown what it is to work hard and be dedicated. I am a person who is determined and when set my mind to do something, I don’t quit until I accomplish my goal.”

Congratulations Aydan Cortez on your achievements and we congratulate him with recognition as the January Student Spotlight; continue to be “The Best at Getting Better.” Go Mustangs!