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Schools

Petaluma Student Makes A Roaring Impact With Wildlife Education

Gloria Reyes-Mitchell of Petaluma High received a Youth Service Award for her leadership, mentorship and passion for hands-on education.

Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to celebrate local star students making a big impact in their communities.
Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to celebrate local star students making a big impact in their communities. (Shutterstock)

Gloria Reyes-Mitchell, a senior at Petaluma High School, was recognized at the 36th annual Celebrate Community Youth Service Awards for her leadership and dedication to education. Per the Petuluma-Argus Courier, Gloria was selected as the winner in the Education/Tutoring category and arned the award for her outstanding contributions as a docent and mentor, particularly through her work at the Petaluma Wildlife Museum (PWM).

As lead docent, Gloria designs and delivers engaging museum tours for visiting elementary students and leads the PWM’s biodiversity zone, where she educates young audiences about the ecological consequences of human activity. She has helped train new docents and created original presentations, and she cares for several of the museum’s animals. Known for her reliability and creativity, Gloria regularly supports open houses and museum events, whether she’s scrubbing aquariums or guiding children through animal exhibits.

At school, Gloria also serves as a mentor in the Link Crew program, helping freshmen feel welcome and supported as they transition into high school. After graduation, she plans to attend a four-year university to study biology or neuroscience, with the goal of becoming a psychiatrist. Whether she’s leading a tour or lending a hand, Gloria has proven she’s ready to care for both animals and people — earning the admiration of the Petaluma community along the way.


The future is certainly looking bright in Petaluma! If you know another Star Student making an impact, nominate them today to be featured on Patch!


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This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch Star Students, a Patch Brand Partner.