Santa Ynez High senior, who takes inspiration from her mom, is involved in FFA and aspires to be an agriculture teacher
The Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge, has announced Santa Ynez High School senior Des Stewart as its November Student of the Month, chosen by SYHS office staff and administration.
Des is a remarkable student whose strength, compassion, and determination shine through in everything she does. She comes from a loving family that includes her mom, stepdad, 4-year-old sisters, and a 2-year-old brother,” said Alexa Tomasini, assistant to the principal. “A passionate reader and dedicated gymnastics coach at Pacific Flips, she balances school, work, and extracurriculars with a maturity far beyond her years. Having moved to the Santa Ynez Valley in eighth grade, she reflects with gratitude on how much she has grown since arriving and how happy she is to now call this place home.”
Stewart’s biggest inspiration is her mom, according to Tomasini, who raised her as a single parent and continues to work multiple jobs to support the family. Even during times when her mom wasn’t physically present because of work, she now understands that every sacrifice was an act of love. This foundation taught her respect, resilience, and the importance of valuing hard work.
Her favorite subject is English literature, where she enjoys exploring stories, ideas, and new perspectives. This year, she is especially proud of raising a pig for the 2025 County Fair, where she earned second place in market, an accomplishment that reflects her dedication and commitment.
For her, school has never been only about going to class, it’s about connection, involvement, and belonging. She thrives on staying busy and forming friendships with people from all backgrounds. The experiences she participates in outside the classroom are what make school meaningful and joyful for her.
Her involvement speaks for itself: FFA, cheer, and representing African American students on campus while contributing to diversity and inclusion efforts. She takes pride in representing the welcoming, vibrant, and evolving culture of Santa Ynez, where both long-time locals and newcomers together create a community she is proud to uplift.
She strives to live by honesty, integrity, and staying true to who she is. These values guide her daily choices and shape how she shows up in the school community. Whether through her involvement or her leadership roles, she contributes by being visible, engaged, and willing to represent others.
After graduation, she plans to attend college and pursue her dream of becoming an agriculture teacher. Her dream school is Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Georgia; she is also considering attending a junior college and transferring to a four-year university for economic reasons.
Her long-term goal is to continue inspiring students just as FFA and SYHS have inspired her. If she could offer advice to her younger self, or to any younger student, it would be this: “You are who you are for a reason. You are enough exactly as you are. Be yourself and go for it all.”
In her spare time, Stewart loves to sing and enjoys R&B and country music. She can also play saxophone and piano. Her favorite book is “Every Day” by David Levithan, a story that inspires her with its themes of identity, empathy, and love.
