The 2026 Superintendent's 21st Century Award Winners

Gavin Guan is a senior at Galileo High School and the secretary of the school’s Best Buddies chapter, where he has worked to create a more inclusive and welcoming campus community. Through his leadership, Gavin transformed the club's membership and organized campaigns, helping promote respect and belonging for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Inspired by his friendship with his Best Buddies partner and his volunteer work with Special Olympics, Gavin has developed a deep commitment to empathy, advocacy, and service. A standout student with a passion for science and community impact, Gavin will attend college to study neuroscience and pursue research aimed at improving people’s lives.

Sahar Moghaddas is a senior at Wallenberg High School whose determination and work ethic have helped her thrive while learning in a new language and school system. She is the vice president of the Wallenberg Art Club and gives back to her community by volunteering with the Red Cross and at the Glen Park Library. Sahar also volunteers at a local pet store, where she spends time caring for animals and strengthening her interest in animal health. A dedicated student who embraces every opportunity to learn and grow, Sahar hopes to pursue a career as an architect.

Janeice Lopez is a senior at Abraham Lincoln High School and a dedicated student leader who has made a lasting impact on her school community. She serves as president of the Black Student Union and is a member of the Student Body Council, where she works to uplift student voices and strengthen school culture. A standout athlete, Janeice helped lead her flag football team to a city championship and has been a committed teammate throughout her high school career. With a strong passion for science and helping others, Janeice plans to pursue a career as a pediatric radiologist.

Osman Zuniga is a senior at San Francisco International High School who came to San Francisco from Guatemala and has demonstrated remarkable perseverance and growth during his time as a newcomer student. Through programs like 826 Valencia, Osman built confidence in his English and discovered the power of sharing his voice and experiences through writing. A dedicated athlete, he now serves as captain of the school’s soccer team, where he leads by example and promotes teamwork and discipline. Osman hopes to pursue a career as an FBI agent.

Alan Tello is a senior at June Jordan School for Equity and a passionate student leader dedicated to building community and belonging. Inspired by a lifelong commitment to service and organizing, Alan has been actively involved in local housing justice efforts and community advocacy. At school, he founded both the Gender and Sexuality Alliance and the Astronomy Club, creating spaces for students to connect, explore their interests, and support one another. Alan continues to turn personal experiences into action that uplifts his community and empowers others.

Cynthia Lei is a senior at Phillip and Sala Burton Academic High School and a dedicated student leader committed to expanding opportunities for her peers. As the founder of Project STEM, Cynthia created a peer tutoring and enrichment program that has supported hundreds of students through collaborative learning and mentorship. She later expanded the program through a partnership with the San Francisco Public Library, organizing community STEM workshops that have reached 30–50 participants at a time. Passionate about equity and access, Cynthia plans to pursue a career as a lawyer.