The Simi Valley Kiwanis Club presented the Hope of America award to sixth- and eighth-grade students at local public and private schools.

Students were selected for outstanding leadership ability, ethical and moral character, achievement in basic academic studies and a promise of future success and service to their community. Students were chosen by their teachers and principals.

The recipients and their schools are Amanda Miller, Arroyo; Samuel Lee and Hayley Barnes, Atherwood; Jeanette Espinoza, Berylwood; Andrew Vu, Big Springs; Nicholas Steele, Crestview; Nolan Reed and Jamie Castaneda, Garden Grove; Madison Pilney, Hollow Hills; Jessie Perez-Mendoza, Justin; Jonette Tibbetts, Katherine; Hayley Moore, Knolls; Jose Serrano, Lincoln and Sarah Mayfield, Madera.

Also, Amanda Sanders, Mountain View; Michael Molnar, Parkview; Catherine Sandoval, Santa Susana; Ashley Webber, Simi Elementary; Lucas Flugum, Sycamore; Adriana Adler, Township; Riley McGuire, Vista; Brenda Rivas, White Oak; Jessica Ruzich, Wood Ranch; Maaz Hussaini, Hillside; Emilie Mateu, Sinaloa; Tess Gardner, Valley View; Dillon Brody, Grace Brethren Elementary; Megan Woodard, Grace Brethren High; Stephanie Leonard, Good Shepherd; Valerie Spindler, Pinecrest and Beatriz Kowalski, St. Rose of Lima.