EPHRATA — Edgar Lopez, a student in the Life Skills program at Ephrata High School, has been named one of the February Students of the Month for his significant academic and personal growth.  

His journey through high school, while marked with challenges, stands as a testament to perseverance, kindness and enthusiasm for learning, said Tanya Piturachsatit, the teacher who nominated him.  

Lopez, who primarily communicates using a limited vocabulary of words like “yes,” “no” and “maybe,” often pairs his verbal responses with sign language, allowing him to express his thoughts and feelings more effectively. His ability to convey nuanced understanding through a combination of gestures and words has had a profound impact on his peers and teachers alike, Piturachsatit said.  

Lopez no longer sees school as just an obligation; now it’s an opportunity for success, his teacher said.  

"Edgar comes to school and he’s kind of tired sometimes in the mornings," said Piturachsatit. "But he has demonstrated remarkable progress in his willingness to engage with his studies.”  

Piturachsatit said Lopez used to struggle with attendance but now she has to convince him to stay home when he is sick. 

Lopez has set clear academic goals for himself, diligently working toward achieving them throughout the school year. When asked if he felt proud of the progress he has made, he said, “Yes.”  

Piturachsatit said this sentiment resonates with his classmates and teachers, who have witnessed his growing independence and confidence.  

“He often gets his work done without needing to ask for feedback the whole time, which is a huge development for him,” Piturachsatit said.  

Lopez has become more confident and communicative, which was reflected in his responses during a Wednesday interview.  

"Are you developing a sense of independence?” he was asked, to which he confidently replied, “Yeah.”  

His ability to recognize his own strengths has become increasingly evident through his progress in various subjects, particularly in reading and writing, said Piturachsatit. 

One of Lopez’s achievements was mastering his writing goals and making substantial strides in reading comprehension. Piturachsatit said he accomplished his writing and reading goals faster than she had expected. His classroom activities have incorporated creative methods such as making videos featuring sign language – skills that engage his peers.  

“He has become featured in perhaps 100 videos we’ve made as a class for practice, and that’s significantly boosted his reading scores,” said Piturachsatit. “He’s shown great initiative to tackle his learning goals, including the independence he’s gaining in correcting his own work.” 

Moreover, Lopez’s contributions extend beyond academics. He often goes out of his way to assist his classmates, she said, whether it’s helping them with their studies or offering encouragement during challenging tasks.  

“If someone else is struggling, Edgar is right there to lend a helping hand,” Piturachsatit said. “This kindness is far-reaching; he even helps his grandmother at home. He has this compassionate nature that he embodies beyond the classroom walls.” 

Lopez’s newfound confidence and enthusiasm for learning have allowed him to engage in school activities and embrace leadership roles. He has recently joined the unified soccer team and expressed excitement about participating in sports.  

When asked if he liked soccer, he said “Maybe.” His first day of practice was Tuesday, Piturachsatit said, so he probably hadn’t made up his mind whether he liked it.  

The recognition as Student of the Month serves as a significant milestone for Lopez – one that he cherishes.  

"Edgar gets excited when he sees his picture up in the school," Piturachsatit said. “He will point at the photo and say ‘Edgar’ with a smile on his face. His mom is very proud of him too because she recognizes the struggles he has faced, and seeing his growth is a milestone for their family as well.” 

Lopez's journey is not just about academic success; it’s also about the connections he has built with classmates, teachers and family. His contributions positively influence the classroom environment, encouraging a culture of acceptance and collaboration among peers, said Piturachsatit.  

“Students have seen Edgar thrive despite his challenges, and it inspires them,” his teacher said. “He is showing everyone the power of making good choices.” 

    Edgar Lopez, intrigued by the camera brought in for his interview for the Columbia Basin Herald, with permission, took the camera out of the bag and took a picture of his teacher Tanya Piturachsatit who had nominated him for student of the month.