At Edison High School, students are always ready to take on new challenges. This month, Mario Rodriguez stands out as our Senior of the Month. He lives by his personal motto: Be Prepared, Be Respectful, Be Inspired. Mario shows what it means to lead with heart, humility, and purpose. His journey demonstrates the profound impact that one dedicated student can have on the entire school community.
Mario is dedicated to Edison, especially in his role as a student ambassador. He helps new and Spanish-speaking students adjust to school life. Through this work, he shows his passion for supporting others and making everyone feel included. He often offers advice to new students, emphasizing the importance of humility and preparation. He also encourages others to speak up for themselves and take initiative, just as he has done in his own education.
Building strong relationships with staff and teachers has been a key part of Mario’s high school experience. He values the support he gets from faculty and notices that even the busiest teachers make time for students. These connections help him feel like he belongs and give him a positive view of education. He also feels that his classes, including Advanced Placement courses, have prepared him well for what comes next.
Mario is the first in his family to attend Edison High School, and he feels proud and grateful for this achievement. He moved from El Salvador and thanks his family for always supporting him. When he told them he was named Senior of the Month, they celebrated with him. Now, he looks forward to the next chapter, including a scholarship to help him reach his goals. When asked how he wants to be remembered at Edison, Mario says, “I hope people remember me as someone who always tried to help others feel welcome and supported, no matter where they came from or what challenges they faced. I want to be known as someone who made a difference by being kind, respectful, and willing to lend a hand whenever it was needed.”
We asked Mario our favorite list of questions:
Why do you think you were nominated as Senior of the Month?
I believe I was nominated because I am helpful to everyone. I try to offer my support to my peers and make an effort to be friendly with everyone. My goal is to become the kind of person who achieves their objectives.
You were nominated by Assistant Principal, Albert Sniezevage. Explain your relationship to him/her? Explain their role in your experience at your school.
I was nominated by Assistant Principal Sniezevage, also known as Mr. S. My relationship with Mr. S is one of mentorship. He has helped me a lot, especially when I first started at Edison; he was the first person to support me during my transition. Over the past few years, he has continued to provide me with guidance and encouragement.
What is one thing you’d like to share about yourself that most people don’t know about you?
One thing that most people don’t know about me is that I became fluent in English in less than a year. I dedicated a lot of time to studying and improving my language skills, and I am confident that I learned it faster than many of my peers.
What do you enjoy most when you are not at school?
I enjoy playing basketball and studying to prepare for college before I start.
What is the best thing about attending school at Edison High?
The best thing about attending Edison is that both the staff and the students are very friendly, and they genuinely want to get to know me.
What is one thing that the School District could do to improve our service to students?
The School District could improve service to students by enhancing the quality of the food provided and increasing staff support within the school.
Mario, we are so excited for you – best of luck in the college and career of your dreams!