Encinitas Chamber Honors 5 High School Seniors As Rising Stars

ENCINITAS, CA — Five local high school seniors were honored for their leadership, academic achievement and community involvement during the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce's first Rising Star Student Recognition Breakfast of the 2026-27 school year.

The students honored Sept. 2 at MiraCosta College's San Elijo Campus were Reego-Darian Rivera of Canyon Crest Academy, Myla Christenson of La Costa Canyon High School, Quade Kelley of the Online Learning Program at Requeza Educational Center, Francisca Perez Carillo of San Dieguito High School Academy and Baylin Tsai of Torrey Pines High School.

Now in its fifth year, the Rising Star program recognizes seniors for qualities including character, integrity, school and community involvement, academic achievement and perseverance.

"These five students exemplify the qualities that define a Rising Star," Encinitas Chamber of Commerce CEO Carol Knight said in a statement. "Their leadership, compassion, perseverance and commitment to their schools and communities give us tremendous hope for the future. We are honored to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate all that lies ahead for them."

The Rising Star program, presented in partnership with the San Dieguito Union High School District, has recognized 114 students and awarded 25 scholarships since its inception. Eight $1,000 scholarships were awarded during the 2025-26 school year.

This year's honorees will be eligible to apply for scholarships to be presented at the Encinitas Chamber's Salute to Education ceremony scheduled for May 13, 2027.