A Mountain View High School student has earned countywide recognition after transforming her school attendance and demonstrating a renewed commitment to academic success.
Mountain View Attendance Turnaround is reflected in the achievement of Quiana Gallegos, who received the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s Shirley Abrams Turn-Around Award. The honor recognizes students who overcome attendance challenges and make meaningful progress toward their educational goals.
The El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees recognized Gallegos during its June 10 meeting, applauding her perseverance and dedication to improving her attendance and academic performance.
Unlike awards that recognize perfect attendance, the Shirley Abrams Turn-Around Award celebrates students who have successfully addressed barriers that once kept them from attending school consistently. The award highlights resilience, determination and personal growth rather than flawless attendance records.
The recognition is named after Shirley Abrams, who spent more than 20 years leading student attendance initiatives at the Los Angeles County Office of Education. During her career, Abrams coordinated the county’s School Attendance Review Board program, which works with schools, families and community agencies to help students overcome obstacles affecting school attendance.
School attendance has become an increasing priority across California as educators work to reduce chronic absenteeism. Research consistently shows that students who attend school regularly are more likely to achieve academic success, stay engaged in school activities and graduate on time.
Many students face attendance challenges that extend beyond the classroom. Health issues, transportation difficulties, family responsibilities and housing instability can all affect a student’s ability to attend school consistently.
Programs such as the School Attendance Review Board help schools identify the root causes of absenteeism and connect students and families with community resources and support services. The Shirley Abrams Turn-Around Award reflects that approach by recognizing measurable improvement rather than perfection.
District officials said Gallegos earned the award through significant gains in attendance and a demonstrated commitment to her education. While the district did not disclose details about her personal journey, the recognition places her among a select group of Los Angeles County students honored each year for overcoming attendance challenges.
The recognition also highlights the broader role schools play in supporting students’ well-being. Many California school districts have expanded attendance intervention efforts by working closely with families to address barriers before they become long-term obstacles to academic success.
For Gallegos, the county honor represents more than improved attendance. It reflects persistence, resilience and the determination to remain engaged in her education despite challenges. Learn more about attendance programs and student support services through the Los Angeles County Office of Education.
Additional information about student programs is available on the El Monte Union High School District website.
