The Manhattan Beach Coordinating Council this week honored its January students of the month from Manhattan Beach schools. 

This month's group of honored students included: 

Jolene Gerez - American Martyrs School

Ben Cappetta - American Martyrs School

Leila Jacobs - American Martyrs School

Miguel Gamboa - Manhattan Beach Middle School

Eva Asiddao - Mira Costa High School

American Martyrs 5th grade teacher, who introduced Jolene Gerez, described Gerez as "a smart, respectful student who demonstrates great character in everything she does...She doesn't perform good deeds for acknowledgement or reward, but because she knows it is the right thing to do."

American Martyrs 5th grade teacher Elliote Hernandez, who introduced Ben Cappetta, said that Cappetta "shows intense dedication to everything he does" and "works hard to earn his straight As." "He's always searching for a way to help others," she said. 

American Martyrs 8th grade teacher Taylor McCarthy, who introduced Leila Jacobs, said that Jacobs is "a diligent student who strives to do the best in all she does. You can always count on Leila to go above and beyond expectations." 

Manhattan Beach Middle School teacher Liz Laffoon, who introduced Miguel Gamboa, said that Gamboa was a "model student at MBMS." She created a list of qualities that Gamboa embodies, using the letters of his first name: Model, Integrity, Gutsy, Understanding, Enjoyable, and Love.

Mira Costa High School teacher Joel Carlson, who introduced Eva Asiddao, said that she was an "excellent, tenacious, and gifted" artist and musician who was "hard-working and inspirational" to her peers.

The group honors students at luncheons in November, January, March, and April. At the group's May luncheon, it awards scholarships to Mira Costa High School seniors.