Category Archives: Local School News

Chino Hills Student Finalist In Music Center’s Scholarship

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Chino Hills– Chino Hills High freshman Ria Aldachi, who is enrolled in Chino Valley Unified School District’s virtual high school online program, has been named a Grand Prize Finalist in the Los Angeles Music Center’s 28th annual Spotlight awards program.

Ria is one of 14 student artists from Southern California to receive the honor and a $5,000 scholarship. She was one of two students named a finalist in the ballet division. Other categories in the contest included acting, non-classical dance, classical voice, non-classical voice, classical instrumental, and jazz instrumental.

The finalists, who were selected by a panel of judges, will perform June 11 at the Spotlight Grand Finale Performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

Approximately, 1,100 participants auditioned for Spotlight this year. In February, Ria was selected as one of the 111 semi-finalists from Southern California. Semi-finalists attended master classes with highly regarded artists, and were offered feedback on their performances. Each semi-finalist also received $300.

Numerous Spotlight participants have gone on to successful professional careers, according to the Los Angeles Music Center. Among those artists are pop recording singers Josh Groban and Adam Lambert; and Misty Copeland, who made history as the first African American principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre.

Suzanne Mathletes Win Gold

By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Suzanne Middle School MATHCOUNTS coach Amy Erickson congratulates gold medal winners Tyler Xu, William Lin, Darren Chen, and Clement Chan.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Suzanne Middle School MATHCOUNTS coach Amy Erickson congratulates gold medal winners Tyler Xu, William Lin, Darren Chen, and Clement Chan.

Walnut- The Suzanne Middle School MATHCOUNTS team won a dozen gold medals during this year’s L.A. County Math Field Day on April 30.

Team members are eighth graders Darren Chen, William Lin, Tyler Xu, and Clement Chan.

Over 30 school districts from across the county sent teams to the event, which was held at Glendale High School. The competition has a new format which focuses on Common Core mathematics curriculum and teamwork.

Students worked together in teams to solve problems and explain their understanding.  Teams were graded on mathematical knowledge and judged on group interaction and collaboration.

Suzanne’s MATHCOUNTS team took the top prize in both the Problem Solving and Conceptual Understanding categories. They also took home a teamwork participation medal.

“It was a very exciting and rewarding day for our mathletes,” said coach Amy Erickson.

 

 

Mt. SAC Students Named To State Academic First Team

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College students Jacqueline Yu and Hung Pham are two of the 93 community college students throughout the state recently selected for the 2016 All-California Academic teams, chosen by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international community college honor society.

These students represent some of the best of the 2.8 million students enrolled in California’s community college system.

Yu and Pham, both students in Mt. SAC’s Honors Program, received medallions during the Community College League of California’s awards ceremony held recently at the Sacramento Convention Center. Selection for the academic teams is based on grades, leadership, and community service.

Yu, 18, is a communication major and carries a 4.0 GPA. She was selected for the All-California Academic First Team. As a Walnut resident, she is the president of the PTK chapter at Mt. SAC, a member of the speech team, and recently received the Bovero Top Speaker Award as the outstanding speaker in a national speech competition. At Mt. SAC, she also has worked on the student newspaper, assists the student government as a tour guide, and helped found the campus Performing Arts Club. She will be honored as one of Mt. SAC’s Students of Distinction this year. In the community, she volunteers as a youth leader for Rowland Heights Community Christian Church, Azusa Pacific Lighthouse, and Lucky Puppy Rescue in Hollywood. She plans to transfer to UC Berkeley or Bradley University in Illinois as a double major in communication and acting. She wants to eventually become a communication professor.

Pham, 20, is a mechanical engineering major and carries a 4.0 GPA. He was selected for the All-California Academic First Team. As a Chino resident, he is a student government transfer committee representative, a member of the Math and Engineering Club, and a member of the Vietnamese Association of Students on campus. He also will be honored as one of Mt. SAC’s Students of Distinction this year. He plans to transfer to Cal Poly Pomona as a mechanical engineering major and plans to become an engineer.

There are 31 first-team, 31 second-team, and 31 third-team winners.

DBHS Announces New Volleyball Coach

Staff Reports

Photo courtesy: DBHS Katie Swetnam was announced as the new DBHS Head Volleyball Coach

Photo courtesy: DBHS
Katie Swetnam was announced as the new DBHS Head Volleyball Coach

Diamond Bar– Diamond Bar High School recently announced their new Head Volleyball Coach, Katie Swetnam.

“We are excited to welcome Katie Swetnam back to Diamond Bar High School,” said Athletic Director, Kevin Ferguson in a news release. “Coach Swetnam is a young, enthusiastic coach who has instant rapport with our student-athletes based on her collegiate playing experience. We expect she will provide stability to our volleyball program and begin the process of building the kind of success we expect to see at Diamond Bar.”

Swetnam is a first-year Spanish teacher at DBHS. But she is also a Diamond Bar graduate. She graduated in 2009, after she led the Brahmas to a league championship in 2008 and was named 1st Team All-League and Offensive MVP in volleyball.

“Swetnam continued on to play Division 1 collegiate volleyball as a full athletic scholarship recipient at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, where she lead her conference in blocks in the 2011 season,” according to DBHS.

Swetnam was also named the 2011 Comeback Player of the Year after she had two shoulder surgeries; she came back strong and became team captain in 2012. After earning her degree, she started coaching club volleyball. She also became the DBHS Varsity Assistant last season, under Becky Bevans.

“I am honored to be chosen to lead the Diamond Bar volleyball program,” said Swetnam. “I’m looking forward to getting in the gym right away in preparation for the upcoming season.”

 

Future Scientists!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Forty-Walnut High seniors were presented with white coats and honor medallions at the completion of the IBCC-PLTW program.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Forty-Walnut High seniors were presented with white coats and honor medallions at the completion of the IBCC-PLTW program.

First WHS graduating class receives white coats during ceremony

Walnut—Forty-eight Walnut High School (WHS) seniors are charting a course to careers in the medical field.

The teens were presented with white lab coats and honor medallions during a ceremony marking the completion of the International Baccalaureate Career-Related/Project Lead the Way (IBCC-PLTW) Biomedical Sciences Program on April 26.

“We’re very proud of their accomplishments!” said Instructional Dean Barbie Cole. “These amazing students displayed knowledge, ability, and aptitude in the area of biomedical science.”

Walnut High is the only school in the state to offer both IBCC with the PLTW Biomedical Sciences program as its career-related component.

Students signed up for the new program three years ago as sophomores interested in becoming pharmacists, family doctors, and neuroscientists and quickly became immersed in building DNA double-helix models.

Teachers facilitated the inquiry-based PLTW classes while students tackled real world “CSI” style investigative and collaborative work.

In addition, they explored different medical intervention strategies of the past, present, and future including the invention of prosthetic limbs and personalized medicine for patients.

“The engaging curriculum, student enthusiasm, and a special sense of community have allowed this program to be successful,” said teacher Chiara Morgan.

To earn personalized lab coats, students were required to complete four biomedical science courses and two IB Diploma courses, a special Approaches to Learning course, numerous service projects, and a written reflective project.

“This is definitely a very exciting day!” said senior Kaitlyn Fujii, who credits the PLTW program’s labs and practical applications for solidifying her interest in psychology.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I liked the classes and coursework. It helped me find a direction.”

Students researched numerous careers, logging education requirements and job duties in journals during the course of the program.

“It gave me a taste of every type of career in the medical field,” said classmate Tiffany Casarez. “Now I’m going to study biology and hope to become a pediatrician.”

She believes the pre-med class benefitted from more hands-on learning than other graduating seniors. “We’ve already experienced half the labs from the first two years in college.”

“I felt like this was an amazing program for someone like me who wanted to go into the medical field,” said Emilio Triguero, age 17.

“The hands-on training, labs, and volunteer experience really made it possible for me to utilize my dream of becoming a doctor.”

While volunteering in 2nd floor surgery at Inter-Community Hospital in Covina, Triguero gained “front row” experiences working alongside doctors and nurses.

“I thought I’d just be cleaning trash cans (which I did), but they also taught me how to do vitals and about hierarchy in the workplace.”

He’ll be studying at UC Riverside in the fall. “When I applied for colleges, they asked if I had contacts – and I did!”

Walnut High became one of only 32 IBCC schools in the country and four in the state after completing an extensive application and authorization process in 2013.

“Our students have done some pretty remarkable things in these classes,” Cole added.

Walnut Student Wins ‘Missing Children’s Day’ Poster Contest

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut Elementary student Michael Wu is the big winner in a National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut Elementary student Michael Wu is the big winner in a National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut–Walnut Elementary fifth grader Michael Wu has been named the grand prize winner in the National Missing Children’s Day poster contest.

The talented 11-year-old’s entry in the “Bring Our Missing Children Home” competition depicts the silhouette of a young boy hugging his teddy bear.

“It shows that the child feels lonely and he wants to be back home,” Michael explained.

The annual competition is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice to create awareness and promote child safety.

Michael was named the 1st place winner in California. His original artwork was then submitted for the national judging.

“It feels awesome!” the soft-spoken student said about receiving the national award.

Teacher Seema Bagai was happily “shocked” after learning the news that her student took the top prize.

“I am thrilled for Michael and can’t wait to celebrate with him in Washington D.C. later this month!”

Michael learned about the contest from his mom, Wendy, an art teacher at the school.  He quickly decided to pull out his paint brushes for a good cause.

“I wanted to help find missing children!”

Michael used colored pencils in shades of brown to bring life to the cuddly teddy bear.  To achieve a splattered shadow around the outline of the child, he flicked dark green paint from an old toothbrush.

Michael, along with his parents, and teacher have been awarded a trip to Washington D.C. to be recognized during the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony on May 25. This ceremony honors the heroic and exemplary efforts of agencies, organizations, and individuals to protect children.

The young artist also took 1st place in the fifth grade category of the Walnut Valley Water District 2016 Water Awareness Month Poster Contest. Michael is a back-to-back winner and his entire class will be visiting the Three Valleys Municipal Water District Miramar Treatment Plant for a tour and pizza lunch.

7 DBHS Seniors Receive National Merit Scholarships

By Kelli Gile

 

Diamond Bar—Seven Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) seniors have won prestigious $2,500 scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

Congratulations to the following DBHS students: Eric T. Chen, Charlene L. Hsu, Jung Hyun Kim, Hsuan-Te Sun, Jonathan Sun, Crystal Tin-Tin Chang, and Margaret Wang.

The 2,500 Merit Scholar designees around the country were chosen from a talented pool of more than 15,000 finalists in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program, according to a May 11 release from the non-profit corporation.

National Merit Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

They were judged on their academic record, scores from two standardized tests, contributions and leadership in school and community activities, an essay, and a recommendation written by a high school official.

The competition for the 2016 scholarships started in October 2014, when more than 1.5 million juniors applied for the 7,500 scholarships, which will have a total value of more than $33 million.

Chino School Raises Funds For Foster Children

Staff Reports

 

Chino– Last month, Borba Elementary School students raised $1,700 to help purchase duffel bags that foster children can use to carry their belongings. The students raised the funds in just two weeks.

Foster youth are in need of the duffel bags because they are usually provided with trash bags to carry their personal items when they are placed in a foster home or agency. Borba Elementary started the fundraiser after partnering with Together We Rise, a local non-profit group that assists foster youth. “Borba students and staff members also discussed the ‘Character Counts’ trait of caring in April as part of the fundraising effort,” according to a Corona Norco Unified School District announcement.

Representatives from Bienvenidos Foster Care Agency in Montclair will be accepting the donation on Friday, May 20 at 9 a.m. The donation ceremony will take place at Borba Elementary in Chino. “Representing the school in the donation ceremony will be members of Borba’s Safe School Ambassadors, a student-run anti-bullying group,” say Corona Norco Unified School District officials.

 

WVUSD Trustees Honor School Site Council Leadership

 

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile The WVUSD Board of Trustees honored School Site Council chairpersons during the April 20 meeting. Shown: Principal Susan Arzola, teacher Jeanette Schaller-South Pointe Middle School, Principal Denise Rendon, parent Jenny Chen – Westhoff Elementary, teacher Kimberly McNeil, Principal Nancy Stingley-Maple Hill Elementary, Principal Joan Perez, parent Kathy Youmans – Collegewood Elementary, Board President Helen Hall, Principal Carolyn Wills, parent Kevin Hoshi – Evergreen Elementary, parent Marcus Lotto, Principal Jeanette Koh –Quail Summit Elementary.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
The WVUSD Board of Trustees honored School Site Council chairpersons during the April 20 meeting. Shown: Principal Susan Arzola, teacher Jeanette Schaller-South Pointe Middle School, Principal Denise Rendon, parent Jenny Chen – Westhoff Elementary, teacher Kimberly McNeil, Principal Nancy Stingley-Maple Hill Elementary, Principal Joan Perez, parent Kathy Youmans – Collegewood Elementary, Board President Helen Hall, Principal Carolyn Wills, parent Kevin Hoshi – Evergreen Elementary, parent Marcus Lotto, Principal Jeanette Koh –Quail Summit Elementary.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut —Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees recognized School Site Council leaders during the April 20 meeting.

“Our School Site Council chairpersons generously give their time, dedication, perseverance, and feedback to help make sound decisions for our schools,” said Jackie Brown, director of elementary education and assessment.

Congratulations to the following honorees: Patricia Ponce-Hernandez-Castle Rock Elementary, Fred Davies – Cyrus J. Morris Elementary, Kathy Youmans – Collegewood Elementary, Kevin Hoshi – Evergreen Elementary, Kimberly McNeil – Maple Hill Elementary, Marcus Lotto – Quail Summit Elementary, Angelica Razo – Vejar Elementary, Araceli Simeon – Walnut Elementary, Jenny Chen – Westhoff Elementary, Enoch Choi – Chaparral Middle School, Jeanette Schaller – South Pointe Middle School, and Marlene Soto – Suzanne Middle School.

School Site Council members are elected by parents and staff members. During meetings, the chairperson, a parent or teacher at the school, leads discussions with the principal to review instructional programs and budgets, school data, and help develop goals and action plans that align with budgets to help students achieve.

The valued community liaisons also lend their expertise and input as part of the team that develops School Site Plans which are approved annually by the Board of Trustees.

“From the bottom of our hearts, we so very much appreciate the work of our School Site Council chairpersons,” Brown added.

 

Mt. SAC Forensics Team Takes Second at Nationals

By Mike Taylor

Walnut–– The Mt. San Antonio College Forensics Team took second place overall at the 2016 Phi Rho Pi National Tournament held recently in Costa Mesa, with students winning five gold medals, seven silver medals, and 12 bronze medals. More than 500 students from 64 colleges throughout the nation competed.
Mt. SAC’s Jacqueline Yu (Walnut) won first place overall and the Bovero Top Speaker Award as the outstanding speaker at the national competition, winning gold medals in informative speaking, after dinner speaking, and communication analysis, and a silver medal in the impromptu speaking competition.
Joey Fontana of Diamond Bar won a gold medal in informative speaking and a silver medal in persuasive speaking. Sarina Wang of Hacienda Heights won a gold medal in informative speaking and a bronze medal in debate.
Azzaam Siddiqi of Walnut won a silver medal in impromptu speaking and a bronze medal in informative speaking. Christopher Robles of La Puente won silver in poetry interpretation and bronze in programmed oral interpretation. Amy Jajieh of Menifee won silver in persuasive speaking and bronze in dramatic interpretation. Matthew Rodriguez of Rio Rancho, NM won silver in persuasive speaking, and bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team. Tiffany Pla of Claremont won silver in extemporaneous speaking, a bronze in persuasive speaking, and a bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team.

Matthew Dowling of Norco won bronze in extemporaneous speaking and bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team. Anthony Flores of Baldwin Park won bronze in the prose competition. Kai Vibar of Walnut won bronze in programmed oral interpretation and bronze as part of a duo interpretation team. Lastly, Alexandria Romero of Chino won bronze in dramatic interpretation and bronze as part of a duo interpretation team.

The team is coached by faculty members Roxan Arntson, Danny Cantrell, and Roger Willis-Raymondo. Since 1994, Mt. SAC has won nine community college national titles and has placed among the top 10 in university-level competition four times.

Swingin’ the Night Away!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High students paired up with local seniors for a Lindy Hop dance lesson. Shown: Freshman Brian Duran teaches community member Leann Curren some new steps.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High students paired up with local seniors for a Lindy Hop dance lesson. Shown: Freshman Brian Duran teaches community member Leann Curren some new steps.

Walnut teens and local seniors come together at Big Band dance

 

 By Kelli Gile

Walnut—The Walnut High School Swing Club and Jazz Band joined the fun during the Swinging Good Times dinner and dance at the Walnut Senior Center on April 22.

High school musicians took to the stage to perform a set of 1930-40’s swing-era music including “Not What” and “Sing Sing Sing.”

Senior Ryan Maidment, who plays trumpet in the group, took the lead organizing the ensemble, selecting music, and scheduling rehearsals for the special performance.

“I love jazz completely and listen to it all the time!” he said.

The teens said they were a little nervous, but excited to be a part of the service project with senior citizens.

“It’s definitely not like anything I’ve seen before,” Maidment said. “It’s been fun!” added electric bass player Matthew Distante.

The multi-generational social dance was the brainchild of English teacher Jennifer Maletz.

“I’m taking a class in community leadership, and we have to create a project that meant something to us. I was a dancer and band singer, so I know that this is a great opportunity to bridge the gap between generations through music and dance,” she said.

A dozen members of the school’s Swing Club showed off their skills performing a Shim Sham Shimmy dance routine.

The girls wore black and white polka dot dresses and the smartly dressed boys donned tuxedo shirts and bow ties for the event. Not the typical Friday night attire for teens.

The local seniors were then invited onto the dance floor for a beginning Lindy Hop lesson to the classic Big Band music.

“If you want to learn some basics of swing – please come and pair up with one of our Swing Club members,” Maidment announced.

The teens quickly partnered with the eager seniors.

The 20-minute tutorial included the quick turn, tuck turn, spin out, and Charleston moves, according to junior Patrick Stephanoff. “You can learn it in a night, but it takes longer to master,” he said.

Walnut resident Leann Curren was one of the first to take the dance floor to learn steps from freshman Brian Duran.

“I love to dance! I’ve been married almost 48 years, but my husband doesn’t dance,” Curren said. So, she took up line dancing about a year ago at the Walnut Senior Center.

“You don’t need a partner!”

“This has been great!” said Richard Pena after taking a spin on the dance floor. His group of retired friends attend ballroom dances that feature the rumba, foxtrot, salsa, cha cha, and waltz.

“I’ve done the West Coast Swing, but never tried the Lindy Hop. It brings back memories!” he added.

The Walnut High Swing Club members are passionate about jazz and it showed as they seamlessly quick-stepped and twirled to the familiar sounds of Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and more.

“I’ve danced a lot of different genres, but I really like swing the most,” said junior Chelsea “Cat” Tuason.

“I enjoy the fact that it gives me a chance to meet new people!” said 18-year-old Brion Robles.

“There’s dance at school, but it’s modern and it’s very hip-hoppy,” added senior Riley Herms, who has been a member of the after-school club for three years. “It’s neat doing something fancier!”

“I think that sometimes we end up being segmented by our ages and not mingling,” Maletz said. “Here in Walnut High School, we have an amazing group of dancers who enjoy music from a very different generation, so there’s a bridge of music and dance that can create a connection within the community.”

“I am so proud of the students and the effort they put in. The event exceeded my expectations for connection and fun!” Maletz said.

Game On!

Evergreen Odyssey of the mind team going to World Finals

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar—Seven Evergreen Elementary students combined creativity and STEM skills to solve challenges that have put them in a class of their own.

The school’s Odyssey of the Mind team won a regional contest in February, then swept the state championship at UC Riverside in April, securing a spot in the World Finals.

Members clinched the state title during the “Stack Attack” event by designing and building a 15-gram structure made of balsa wood and glue that held over 800 pounds.

“It’s an amazing achievement, and an incredible opportunity for these creative thinkers and problem solvers!  Congratulations, Evergreen Odyssey of the Mind team, it’s GAME ON!” said

Principal Carolyn Wills.

Third and fifth-grade-team members Ianna Lin, Annie Chen, Alexander Kuo, Alex Teng, Carrie Chen, William Qian, and Alexander Dollar are now preparing to be part of an exciting global competition to be held at Iowa State University on May 25-28.

The close-knit team wrote the script, designed costumes, decorated a backdrop, and learned how to use tools for the contest.

“We worked together, and learned to listen and to respect each other,” said 5th grader Alexander Dollar.

In addition, the team prepared for a spontaneous problem given during the challenge.

During every team meeting, students diligently practiced solving possible problems.

“It helped us learn to work as a team, to be leaders, and to make decisions under pressure,” added teammate Alexander Kuo.

The team won the top awards in Style, Long-term, and Spontaneous events during the state championship.

Odyssey of the Mind utilizes a hands-on approach to building skills, creativity, perseverance, and teamwork.

The Evergreen team is headed up by parent coaches Sam and Jean Lin, and Natasha Dollar, and everyone is excited to represent the community during the world championship.

“It’s something the youngsters have worked for all year long,” according to parent Jean Lin.

“We really appreciate Evergreen’s STEM program that provides students with many opportunities,” she added.

“Today our children built a structure that held 800 lbs., tomorrow they’ll be holding the world!

The team is looking to raise $7,000 and has set up a Go Fund Me account. To find out more information, visit https://www.gofundme.com/6cxda2g4

Vejar Elementary Throws A Golden Birthday Party

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut—When Vejar Elementary marked its 50th birthday party, scores of former students, staff, principals, and teachers returned for the milestone celebration, eager to see familiar faces, and share fond memories.

Art Hermosillo was one of the first students to attend the new school as a kindergartner when the doors opened in January 1966.

“We had such a great time!” he said standing in the courtyard of his alma mater reciting every one of his teachers’ names, including the school’s first principal, Doug Rosenow.

“We were always looking forward to the holiday parties at Halloween and Christmas. And I remember the mobile library that would visit the school.”

Mary Trout, who taught at Vejar from 1977-2001, was quick to share her favorite memory at the school.

“It was our fifth grade ‘Let’s Hear it for America’ patriotic performance,” she said. “It was amazing!”

Truman Collins, who served as the school’s fourth principal from 1981 to 1988, said that he wouldn’t have missed the party.

“I’m so happy to be here!” he said while shaking hands of dear friends and colleagues.

The party included band and choir performances, memorabilia, and of course, cupcakes for everyone during a special open house held on March 24.

“We have the best staff and students in the world!” said proud Principal Jennifer De Anda to about 400 members of the extended Vejar family gathered at the event.

“It’s been an exciting year of celebration – receiving the state’s Gold Ribbon award on the year of our Golden Anniversary is the icing on the cake!” she added.

“I know this school means so much to all of us!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor about the school that has a “neighborhood feel.”

“Teachers and staff are so committed to student achievement and truly care about every child.”

Vejar students left a long-lasting imprint on a tile wall created to commemorate for the event.

Fifth grade teacher Karen Montgomery, who has called Vejar her home for the past 27 years, used her talents to stitch together a collection of the school’s logo t-shirts to create a 50th anniversary quilt.

“My hope was that the gift would celebrate the Vejar family and add beauty and a sense of school pride for all that see it.”

The choir even led the audience in a special rendition of the Birthday Song, written by teacher Pam Acosta.

“Happy Birthday Vejar. Happy Birthday with cheer. The year was 1966 that kids first came here!”

Fifty years of school history was on display in the school library with tables filled with yearbooks and photos, news clippings, and artifacts from the past five decades, including an “antique” rotary telephone and record player.

Retired administrator Yvonne Sevilla, who also served as the school’s ninth principal, shared details of its rich history including the early years when the school was surrounded by farmland, creeks, and orchards.

“In the 1960’s things looked quite different at the school – there was no air conditioning, no carpet or phones. Men wore ties and women wore dresses everyday!” she exclaimed.

Vejar was built on the site of the Ricardo Spanish land grant and its logo – a cowboy boot- represents the Vaqueros cowboys who took care of the rancho during the 1800’s.

A colorful carved four-foot-tall version created by 5th grade student Mora Hanks and WVUSD carpenter Mike Bromberg was unveiled for the party.

The school’s longtime motto “Future Leaders Learn Here” was etched above a cowboy on horseback depicted on the plaque.

“It’s so very true!” Sevilla commented. “And for that, we need to clap and cheer right now!”

Chino Valley National Junior Honor Society Inductees

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – Heritage Middle School announced their 2016 National Junior Honor Society inductees last week. The induction ceremony took place on April 20 at 6 p.m., where each of the recipients were honored.

The National Junior Honor Society inductees are students who have demonstrated high standards of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship, and character.

Congratulations to the following 2016 National Junior Honor Society inductees:

  • Luis Acosta
  • Alicen Astorga
  • Camille Call
  • Madisen Cornelius
  • Magali Gomez
  • McKenna Harris
  • Jacob Hogan
  • Joelle Krogh
  • Kyra Mastin
  • Ashley McGuffey
  • Madison Morin
  • Brittany Pierce
  • Rachel Plumb
  • Emery Rock
  • Keller Rock
  • Rudy Rodriguez
  • Jessica Shuck
  • Melissa Soto
  • Emily Thompson
  • Arley Tucker
  • Keiana Vreyens
  • Abigail Watson

Walnut High Unveils New Swimming Pool

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Senior Derek Wan dives into the clear blue during the grand reopening at Walnut High.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Senior Derek Wan dives into the clear blue during the grand reopening at Walnut High.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut- Community members caught their first glimpse of the renovated Aquatics Center at Walnut High School during a poolside event on April 20.

“It’s a great day to celebrate the opening of our new pool!” said Principal Brandon Dade as he welcomed parents, students, staff, and officials gathered for the celebration.

The grand reopening and ribbon cutting ceremony marked the completion of the $2.3 million construction project.

The nine-lane competition venue and upgraded facilities were made possible by voter approval of Bond Measures S & Y passed in November 2007.

“I want to thank the parents, because without them, we would not have this today,” said Board President Helen Hall.  “Our parents really care in Walnut Valley!”

The construction began in July 2015 with the removal of the outdated swimming pool and surrounding decking.

For the past several months Mustang swim and water polo teams have been practicing and competing at Diamond Bar High.

“I’m appreciative of our coaches and administration that have been so flexible during this project,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Walnut students and staff were excited to host their first competition in the new 304,603-gallon swimming pool immediately following the ceremony.

“We’ve had a great team for several years and now we have a pool that represents the quality of our program,” said head swim coach, Ed Gautreau. “I’m happy that we can call this our home again!”

“The athletic department would like to thank everyone that was instrumental in the modernization of our aquatic facility,” said director Jerry Person.

The swim complex features new decking and lighting, locker rooms with men’s and women’s restrooms, coach’s room, pool storage building, mechanical room, pool equipment building and supplies, public restrooms, galvanized iron fencing, aluminum bleachers with shade structure, and scoreboard.

After the ribbon cutting, swim team and water polo members took to the blocks for their first official dive.

Senior swim captain Leah Rickard said joining the swim team four years ago was one of the best decisions of her life.

“Sports programs teach respect, self motivation, time management, and how to be a team player,” she said.

“It is on this deck that I’ve not only grown as a swimmer, but also as a person and a leader.”

The new aquatics center will primarily be used for the school’s swim program and physical education classes, but will soon be open to the community for recreational activities during the summer as well.

“Walnut High School Aquatics has a strong tradition that will be carried on for many years to come,” Person added.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High swim team and water polo members celebrate at the opening of the new aquatics center. Shown: Erin De Anda, Emily Honng, Leah Rickard, Jarren Peng, Garrett Gautreau, Jerry Chen, and Derek Wan.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High swim team and water polo members celebrate at the opening of the new aquatics center. Shown: Erin De Anda, Emily Honng, Leah Rickard, Jarren Peng, Garrett Gautreau, Jerry Chen, and Derek Wan.

Diamond Bar: Striking A Chord

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
South Pointe Middle School choir performs during a National School to Watch awards ceremony.

Chaparral, South Pointe music programs receive national recognition

By Kelli Gile

 

DIAMOND BAR— Two Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) middle schools – Chaparral and South Pointe – have been honored with the SupportMusic Merit Award from the nonprofit NAAM Foundation for outstanding commitment to music education.

A total of 118 schools across the country recognized with the prestigious award in 2016.

“This award puts Chaparral and South Pointe on an exclusive list that receives national attention – and that is something to celebrate!” said Chaparral band director Leslie Schroerlucke.

The SupportMusic designation is awarded to individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

The award recognizes schools that are leading the way with learning opportunities as outlined in the new federal education legislation, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), that recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children.

Congratulations to Chaparral music teachers Greg Rochford-orchestra, Leslie Schroerlucke-band, Rich Langham-choir, South Pointe music teachers Susan Willmering- band, and Robin Wadsworth-choir.

“It is such an honor to be recognized for the second consecutive year by NAMM. It is fantastic to know that Chaparral is seen in such high regard,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

“Our music programs are essential to our students and their families,” Schroerlucke added. “The NAMM award reaffirms once again that music programs in WVUSD are exemplary in terms of the number of students in our programs, the quality of the programs, and parent support.”

At South Pointe, over 500 students participate in music arts classes. Choir teacher Robin Wadsworth, who works with about 150 students in her classes, is passionate about the benefits of music education.

“There have been many scientific studies that show that music helps creativity, coordination, reasoning skills, and improving test scores,” she said.

Wadsworth also sites another benefit of being a part of music groups.

“Music performing groups give kids a place to belong. Playing, singing, or just listening to music relieves stress and gives groups of students that perform together a common purpose.”

Her students agreed. “Music makes me happy. When I’m sad, I sing!” said 6th grader Shannon Kelly.

“Music helps me express my feelings,” added 7th grader Maxine Magpayo.

“We are fortunate to have remarkable teachers and a district that understands the importance of the arts in education,” said South Pointe’s Principal, Susan Arzola.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Hundreds of Chaparral Middle School students participate in music education courses each year. Shown: Orchestra in rehearsal with director Greg Rochford.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Hundreds of Chaparral Middle School students participate in music education courses each year. Shown: Orchestra in rehearsal with director Greg Rochford.

Mt. SAC Students Win 14 Medals at HOSA State Competition

Health career students advance to national competition in June
By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College health career students won a total of 14 medals, including seven gold medals and seven silver medals, at the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) state leadership conference held April 6–10 in Anaheim. More than 2,500 students competed at the state competition.

Yessenia Campos (El Monte), Sierra Gomez (San Bernardino), Keili Hiniker (Walnut), and La Tonya McDaniel (Perris) won gold medals in the creative problem solving competition. Eduardo Guzman (Baldwin Park) Maria Jauregui (Covina), and Jose Montiel-Flores (Baldwin Park) won gold medals in the biomedical debate competition.

Remington Cole (Pomona), Sue Mass (Chino Hills), Sandra Medina (La Puente), and Felicia Ngo (Alhambra) took silver medals in creative problem solving. Rebecca Cruz (Rancho Cucamonga), Kirk Loualhati (Covina), and Joe Sanchez (Covina) won silver medals in the biomedical debate competition.

All 14 Mt. SAC students will advance to the national HOSA competition to be held June 22–25 in Nashville, Tenn.

HOSA, established in 1976 by the U.S. Department of Education, is the national organization for secondary and post-secondary health career students. The organization provides students in 40 states with skills, leadership development, and career development.

Chino Valley Percussion Teams Excel At World Championships

Chino Valley Unified School District

Chino Valley– Congratulations to three Chino Valley Unified School District percussion teams for their winning performances at the 2016 Winter Guard International (WGI) Percussion World Championships, held April 15 and 16 in Dayton, Ohio.

A percussion team from Ayala High bested 14 other high schools from across the nation to be named the 2016 WGI Percussion Scholastic World Champions on April 16. Ayala won first overall in the prestigious division. Ayala also took first in caption awards for music effect, visual effect, and visual. They won second in music.

Chino Hills High’s percussion team took second overall in the Scholastic World division. They also won first in music; second places in music effect and visual effect; and a third place in visual.

Ayala’s Scholastic Concert World team came in first overall in that division of five teams at the WGI Championships on April 15. Ayala also took first in music, and second in artistry.

 

WHS Dive-in Day!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High School will celebrate the grand reopening and ribbon cutting of its aquatic center on April 20.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High School will celebrate the grand reopening and ribbon cutting of its aquatic center on April 20.

Walnut High School swimming pool renovation complete

 By Kelli Gile

Walnut—Walnut High School is set to celebrate the completion of a $2.3 million pool renovation during a grand reopening and ribbon cutting ceremony on April 20.

The community is invited to join the 3:30 p.m. poolside event that will feature an inaugural dive-in by swim team members.

The huge construction project began in July 2015 with the removal of the outdated pool and surrounding decking.

The star of the Walnut High Aquatics competition venue is a brand new 304,603-gallon swimming pool with nine racing lanes.

Additionally, the swim complex features new decking and lighting, locker room with men’s and women’s restrooms, coach’s room, pool storage building, pool equipment building, public restrooms, aluminum bleachers with shade structure, and scoreboard.

Construction and modernization projects in the Walnut Valley Unified School District were made possible by voter approval of Bond Measures S & Y passed in November 2007.

Walnut High School is located at 400 N. Pierre Road in Walnut.

“Swinging Good Times” Dinner & Dance

Teens and senior citizens come together at swing dance!

Staff Reports

Walnut– Join us as we swing the night away! Students from the Walnut High School Jazz Band will usher in the distinctive sounds of 1930-40’s swing-era music during a dinner and dance on April 22. Members of the school’s Swing Club will provide instruction, comradery, and entertainment with local senior citizens!

Walnut High English teacher Jennifer Maletz came up with the idea for the multi-generational social event as a way to create a sense of connection, joy, and understanding through dance. About 40 students and 100 seniors are expected to come together for this new event!

The dinner and dance will take place at the Walnut Senior Center, located at 21215 La Puente Road. The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members and $12 for non-members. Please call the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200.