Category Archives: Local School News

Walnut: Vejar Elementary Star Student and Community Partners Honored

BY KELLI GILE

andrew-osorio

Andrew Osorio – giving his trademark “thumbs-up” during a summertime visit to the school – was named the Super Star Student at Vejar Elementary and was honored during the September 19 board meeting. The 8-year old sadly passed away on Sept. 3 due to a congenital heart condition. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified Board of Trustees recognized the Vejar Elementary Super Star Student and Community Partners on Sept. 17.

“Andrew Osorio was selected as our Super Star Student for his bravery, his hard work, and his positive attitude that exemplified not just the Vejar Values, but a strong human spirit,” said Principal Jennifer De Anda during the Board Meeting.

During the presentation, she showed slides from a visit with Andrew at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles earlier this month. Andrew had been on a transplant list due to a congenital heart problem.

“I had the honor of presenting him with Super Star recognition,” De Anda said.

She then recalled some memories of the special Vejar student.

“There were times when Andrew would come into the office due to his condition because he couldn’t participate in physical education,” De Anda explained. “And so during that time he would come in and rest.  When other students came in because they were injured or weren’t feeling well, Andrew would console them, he would joke with them, and read them stories. He was very sweet and caring,” she said.

Andrew sadly passed away on September 3.

De Anda shared that Andrew’s unending smile and his brave “thumbs up” were inspirational to the Vejar community.

Last spring, teacher Jamie Highstreet, Office Manager Yadira Gostel, student leaders, and the community club rallied around Andrew to help raise money for his medical expenses. Kelli Gile, Public Information Liaison, and Rich Irwin, San Gabriel Valley Tribune reporter, received the Partner in Education Award for their help with the fundraiser.

“Thanks to them, our Have a Heart campaign made the newspapers and brought in even more money,” the Vejar principal explained. “They both went out of their way to publicize our fundraiser to help Andrew’s family. They spoke with him and with the family with the kindness and empathy that helped them feel at ease,” she said.

As a result, the school was able to give the family nearly $3,000 from the Walnut community.

The Osorio family has invited students, staff, and community members to share their favorite memories of Andrew at www.AndrewOsorio.Foundation.

Pomona: PUSD Celebrates 2014-15 Teacher of the Year

BY JULIETTE FUNES

Monica Whisenhunt-PUSD Teacher of the year 2014

Madison Elementary School teacher, Monica Whisenhunt, was named the 2014-15 Teacher of the Year for PUSD. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – The Pomona Unified School District has recognized Madison Elementary School teacher, Monica Whisenhunt, as the 2014-15 Teacher of the Year for PUSD.

            Whisenhunt – who has taught Grades 3 to 6 throughout her 12-year teaching career at Madison Elementary – was honored for the achievement at the Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year Announcement and Awards Luncheon on Fri., Sept. 19.

“Monica grew up surrounded by educators, following in her mother’s footsteps, so it’s no surprise that she has come to be one of the best teachers we have in the District,” said Board of Education President, Frank Guzman. “I want to congratulate Monica for the excellent work she has done to make a difference in the lives of our students in the Pomona Unified community.”

Whisenhunt was nominated by her colleagues at the school and other teachers in the District. She was selected for the accolade by the Associated Pomona Teachers and the Pomona Unified School District.

“While I’m surprised that I was selected out of the hundreds of talented teachers we have in the district, it’s really nice to be acknowledged and recognized for working hard and being a dedicated teacher to my students,” Whisenhunt said.

Whisenhunt said she was inspired to become an educator after seeing her mother, a teacher at a continuation school, get stopped by former students to express their gratitude for what a positive influence she had been in their lives.

“It was obvious that my mother had made an impact on their lives through her kindness and dedication as a teacher,” she said. “Growing up with teachers, I would see the constant sacrifice and endless hard work they did to ensure success for their students.”

Last year, Whisenhunt partnered with Cambridge Education and immersed herself in the Common Core and best practices, and has served on several committees to learn and prepare for the changing dynamics of education.

“Although being a teacher has many challenges, I believe in my students’ potential, and it is always my goal to provide learning opportunities that will motivate and encourage them to be high achievers,” Whisenhunt continued.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Whisenhunt also serves as an executive board member with APT.

“Monica is a prime example of the committed teachers we have at Pomona Unified,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “Just like her mother, I know Monica will have a positive influence on her students’ lives.”

 

 

 

Walnut: New Mt. SAC Child Development Center

BY MIKE TAYLOR

Walnut – The New Mt. SAC Child Development Center plays a dual role in education. Imagine a service that allows people to return to school, provides quality childcare, and serves as a hands-on training facility. That’s exactly what Mt. San Antonio College‘s new Child Development Center will offer the college community’s children, students, and families.

“Moving into a larger, modern facility allows us serve more children and more students,” said Mt. SAC Child Development Center Director, Tamika Addison, about the new center that opened to students last spring and open for childcare a month ago.

The 33,800-square foot, four-building complex houses child development classrooms, labs, observation spaces, and other required facilities to provide quality education and childcare for up to 162 children, infants to five years of age.

Mt. SAC celebrated the grand opening of the Child Development Center’s new complex (Building 70) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Fri., Sept. 26. Assemblyman Curt Hagman, Senator Bob Huff, and college administrators were on hand for the ceremony.

“Childcare is sometimes the biggest barrier for people who want to return to college and continue their education,” said Addison, who added that over 200 families will use the childcare services they offer each semester.

But the center’s services are much more than babysitting or just watching the children.

“We are concerned with their early education as well. We work with the whole child,” said Addison. “We prepare the children to do well later in school in kindergarten and elementary school.”

The childcare program at Mt. SAC has received national accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, which serves as the program’s seal of approval as a quality childcare center. Each semester, there is a waiting list of about 150 for people who want to get their children into the program.

The center is also one of very few childcare centers that offer subsidized programs for families that qualify. Between 18 and 25 percent of most families’ income is spent on childcare. For some families, that subsidy, offered through three sources including the Department of Education, is a lifesaver. A subsidized food program offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture is also available for children.

In another role, the center also serves as a training facility for more than 50 child development students every semester who serve as assistant teachers and received practical, hands-on training.

“We are training the area’s future childcare workers,” Addison said.

Once they finish the program, the students will fill childcare positions with programs like Head Start, and will be in demand because of the training they have received.

“The childcare field is constantly growing, and because of the need for trained childcare workers, childcare centers and programs like this are in demand,” said Addison.

According to Employment Development Department statistics, new job growth in the area of childcare is up 46 percent in California, and the childcare field is ranked in the top 50 fastest growing job fields in the state.

“The jobs are there. The question is, can we meet the demand,” she said.

The grand opening for the complex comes more than four years after its groundbreaking in June 2010. The $18.5-million complex was the first of the campus construction projects funded under the college’s $353 million Measure RR bond.

Walnut: Collegewood Celebrates Creativity

BY KELLI GILE

 

Walnut – Everybody loves a parade! Hundreds of parents lined up to watch a kaleidoscope of colors and designs during the Collegewood Elementary Dot Day Parade on Sept. 18.

Students brought in boxes, paper and supplies from home and then let their creative juices flow.

One group stretched their imaginations making puppies from simple cardboard boxes. Another group of youngsters decorated a fluffy arctic polar bear float.

“It was 100% on their own,” 2nd Grade teacher, Diane Zell, explained.

Students were encouraged to make their mark using critical thinking and collaboration. Classes marched through the campus showing off creative floats banners, displays, posters, and decorated boxes.

One clever 5th Grader carried a bright blue bird painted on a square box complete with feathers and golden wings. Another artsy group designed and built a 5-foot long horse covered in black tissue paper and tape, with a mane of black felt and red felt bridle.

A group of fourth graders in Scott Jones’ class proudly wheeled a white block-shaped Minecraft wolf float made from cardboard boxes, tape, and paint.  Transitional kindergarten students wore adorable decorated crepe paper hats. Second grade groups marched through with a Tinkerbell float and a time machine.

The idea for the creativity parade began with a letter written to the principal by 3rd Grader, Sophia Hill. She asked her principal for a reward if the class filled its gold coin incentive jar. Collectively students earn gold coins for demonstrating ways they exceed expectations with the 4Rs: Ready-to-Learn, Responsibility, Resourcefulness, and Respectfulness.

“I thought it would be fun to have a parade with floats and invite the president!” the courageous 8-year old said.

When Principal Joan Perez gave the green light for a school-wide parade, the 3rd Grader wrote a letter to President Obama.   But, because he was busy running the country, our Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor, rode through the parade as the official Grand Marshall.  Watch out, Rose Parade!

“When our students learned of Sophia’s idea, they were so excited!  They were inspired to innovate and create parade floats all while practicing our 4Rs.  Our entire school community was amazed how rigorous and relevant the entire process was.  I can’t think of a better way to model for students that hard work and determination yields great rewards!” Perez said.

Perez combined the school parade with the international Dot Day, an event that celebrates courage, creativity, courage, and collaboration. And it all begins with a dot.

“The Dot is the story of a caring teacher who fosters students to trust in their abilities to be creative and being brave enough to make their mark in the world,” Perez added.

 

 

Walnut: WV School Board Approves New Administrative Positions

BY KELLIE GILE

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees has approved the following administrative positions for the 2014-2015 school year. Congratulations to the following team members!

  1. Sergio Canal is the new Director of Pupil Personnel Services/Secondary Education in the Educational Services Division. Canal brings 18 years of expertise in the K-12 educational system. Most recently, he served as principal at Nogales High School. He has also been an elementary teacher, middle school assistant principal, and a high school administrator.

David Suarez was approved as Director of Maintenance, Operations, Transportation and Facilities.  Suarez comes highly recommended and brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the District. For the past five years, he supervised over 300 employees as director of maintenance at Foothill Transit. Suarez is also a retired Air Force E-7 Technical Sergeant and served our country for 20 years.

Jeanette Koh is the new principal at Quail Summit Elementary School. Koh brings 22 years of experience in education to her new post and she has been in Walnut Valley for the past 18 years.  Last year, Koh served as Assistant Principal at Suzanne Middle School.  Previously she was the Title I Coordinator at Vejar Elementary and a teacher at Maple Hill Elementary. Koh is the GLAD (Guided Language Acquisition Design) trainer for the district and was honored as the Outstanding Contributor to Literacy by The American Literacy Corporation. She spent 19 years as a teacher and earned the prestigious National Board Certification.

  1. Resma Chamadia-Byrne has been approved as the new principal at Castle Rock Elementary School. She brings 19 years of experience in several school districts including Pasadena Unified, Ontario-Montclair, and Corona-Norco. Chamadia-Byrne has taught several grade levels, served as a teacher on special assignment, and worked with various school programs and parent groups, and most recently served as assistant principal for one of the largest elementary schools in Southern California serving nearly 1,800 TK-6th Grade students on a multi-track calendar.

Jennifer Alcazar is the new Assistant Principal at Chaparral Middle School. For the last three years Alcazar has implemented technology with staff and students as a Technology Coach at Chaparral. Jen has been a science teacher for 19 years, with ten of those years at Chaparral. Alcazar has been implementing professional development for the past decade through the University of California, Irvine.

Amy Smith has been approved as the new Assistant Principal at Suzanne Middle School.  For the past four years, Smith was a teacher at Vejar Elementary School. She has taught at several schools during her career, including Quail Summit Elementary. Amy began her career as a middle school teacher and brings 14 years in education to her new post.

 

 

Walnut: Mt. SAC Art Gallery Revisits Exploration of Figurative Art

BY MIKE TAYLOR

 

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Art Gallery will kick off its 2014-15 season with, “The Way of Flesh II,” which runs Sept. 18 through Oct. 16, at the Art Gallery. This exhibit is free and open to the public.

“The Way of Flesh II” displays the legacy of figurative art through the eyes and hands of three generations of contemporary artists, without geographical limitations. By contextualizing, juxtaposing, and challenging the limitations of traditional media, this exhibition offers the audience a complexity of inventive approaches to rendering the figure in the classical tradition. “The Way of Flesh II” picks up 20 years later, after the original “The Way of Flesh” exhibit at the Mt. SAC gallery in 1994.

Participating artists are Sigmund Abeles, Sharon Allicotti, Juliette Aristides, Steven Assael, Ron Brown, Dawn Butler, Thomas Butler, Wes Christensen,Domenic Cretara, Dirk Hagner, F. Scott Hess, Jared Linge, Pamela Diaz Martinez, Daina Mattis, John Nava, Odd Nerdrum, Ryan Schroeder, Robert Schultz,Luis E. Serrano, Betty Shelton, Richard Shelton, Cynthia Sitton, Thomas Stubbs, Ruth Weisberg, Jerome Witkin, and Peter Zokosky.

A special opening reception will be held Thurs., Sept. 18, 4:30 to 7 p.m., in the Art Gallery, Building 1B. An artists’ panel for the exhibit will be held Sun., Sept. 28, 1 to 4 p.m.  Gallery hours are Tuesdays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Tuesday nights, 5 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call the Art Gallery at (909) 274-4328.  .

Walnut: WVUSD Seniors Named Semifinalists in Scholarship Program

BY KELLIE GILE

Walnut – 42 Diamond Bar and Walnut High School seniors have been named Semifinalists in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program.  The nationwide pool of about 16,000 Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors in each state.

The following students have been recognized for demonstrating exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies:

Diamond Bar High School: Kyu Seo Ahn, Saakib Akbany, Athena Chen, Zhen H. Chen, Matthew Chiu, Justin J. Choi, Kali A. DeCambra, Sophia Y. Deng, Gregory J. Gunadi, Shyam F. Hassan, Jeannie C. Huang, Mandy Hung, Christopher L. Ivanoff, Rena Jiang, Catherine H. Larcheveque, Young D. Lin, Michelle Lyu, Alvin R. Ma, Alexander J. Song, Emily K. Wong, and Jordan C. Wong.

Walnut High School:  Ao Henry, Bobbie Chen, Jackson T. Deng, Joanna Hao, Jefferey S. Huang, Mindy A. Huang, Yu Ting Kuo, Andrew S. Lee, Xiang Li, Rhea Lin, Theresa T. Lo, Ethan Ma, Johnny Mok, Christopher Qian, Allison Y. Tang, Yun-Ta Tsai, Rachel Wang, Brian S. Weng, Manyue Zhang, Xin Zhang, and Ted N. Zhu.

About 1.4 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools across the country entered the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2013 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

These academically talented seniors will now go on to compete as Finalists for 7,600 scholarships worth about $33 million that will be offered next spring by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, private companies, colleges, and foundations.  Students submit detailed applications, recommendations, essays, and SAT scores.  All National Merit Scholarship winners are selected from the group of Finalists on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

Congratulations students, parents, and teachers on this outstanding accomplishment!

 

 

SGV: Medical Assistant Programs Offered At Diamond Bar And Walnut High Schools

BY CANDICE MARSANO

 

SGV – In collaboration with the Walnut Valley Unified School District, the East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program and Technical Center just opened two new Instructional Service Centers for aspiring Medical Assistants.  The class is a pathway from high school to post-secondary offered as part of the Medical Programs at Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools, and is also open to community residents.

The ESGVROP Technical Center, which bases its post-secondary programs out of its West Covina location, opened the Certified Medical Assistant program at the Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools earlier this year. The program will allow graduating high school students and community residents the opportunity to transition into the program seamlessly throughout the year through its open enrollment.  The program allows students to begin their career in the medical field, gain valuable work experience, and continue to pursue their education at the university level.

With support from Walnut Unified officials, ESGVROP Technical Center set up the Medical Assisting program at the high schools to help students transition into a fully-accredited college-level vocational program.  The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), which qualifies students to compete for a national exam, the AAMA.  The AAMA Certification is highly desired by employers in the medical field.  It’s a perfect program with a high demand choice.  For information on enrolling into the program, call (626) 472-5101.

 

Walnut Valley Elementary Students Awarded New Bikes

BY KELLI GILE

Diamond Bar – One student from each of the nine Walnut Valley elementary schools was honored on September 8. The select group of youngsters had no idea they’d also be receiving brand new bikes during the presentation held at Maple Hill Elementary.

WVUSD-Students-get bikes

Nine Walnut Valley elementary students were honored during a ceremony on September 8 and were surprised when they received brand new bikes! (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

“The 45-member Leadership Team organized the event to pay tribute to nine of the most outstanding students in the entire District,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Each elementary principal, joined by team members, introduced their student and presented a certificate of special recognition. Students were heralded for their hard work, determination, kindness, and making a difference on their campuses.

“They have accomplished a great deal in their educational career already,” Dr. Taylor added.

The honorees are Isabella Acuña (Castle Rock), Melanie Mendietta (Collegewood), Isaac Ochoa (C.J. Morris), Chris Gonzalez (Evergreen), Delia Paula Jaramillo (Maple Hill), Juliet Lugo (Quail Summit), Everhett Cohen (Vejar), Randolph Clark (Walnut Elementary), and Natalie Mora-Monarrez (Westhoff).

“We were thinking, you’re the nine best students in the whole district! What could we do to show how special we really think you are?” said Superintendent Dr. Taylor. “So we called our Walnut Valley Educational Foundation and asked if they would support the project,” he added.

At that signal, nine brand new pink and red bicycles were wheeled into the multi-purpose room for the surprised students, surrounded by their families.

The children beamed when they saw the bikes! They also received matching safety helmets.

“We are so happy to work as a team in support of our schools, teachers, and our kids,” said Foundation President, Cecilia Yeh.

During the summer, members of the Leadership Team, comprised of school and district administrators, assembled the bikes purchased by the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation.

“Watching our Leadership group work in teams to build bikes for a selected student at each elementary school was so heartwarming. Knowing that we were going to honor students for their academic accomplishments, along with a gift of a bike, reaffirmed our district’s KIDS FIRST philosophy. I am so proud to have been a part of this event!” said Jackie Brown, Director of Educational Programs.

 

Pomona: Diamond Ranch Named Top U.S. School

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Photo Courtesy: Diamond Ranch High School

STAFF REPORTS

Pomona – The Daily Beast news organization has ranked Diamond Ranch High School as one of the most successful public high schools for 2014, out of thousands reviewed across the nation.

In its quest to find the top public educational institutions in America, The Daily Beast surveyed approximately 1,200 schools with above-average graduation rates of at least 85 percent. After taking academic rigor into consideration, the list was whittled down to just over 700 finalists.

According to the Pomona Unified School District, Diamond Ranch has a graduation rate of 99.3 percent and has a college-bound rate of 89.3 percent – ranked 308 out of 735.

“There are hundreds of excellent schools on this list, so for one of our schools to be recognized out of thousands across the nation for its academic prowess and rigorous program is a great feat for Pomona Unified,” said Board of Education President Frank Guzman. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teachers and staff for working so hard to make Diamond Ranch stand out as one of the best high schools in the region to best prepare our students for the 21st century.”

The criteria used to compile the list included graduation and college acceptance rates, which were weighed most heavily; academic rigor using Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes and test scores; the number of students qualifying for free or reduced lunches; and student performance on college admission exams – all indicators of how well a school prepares students for college and career.

At Diamond Ranch, nearly 100 percent of students graduate, almost 90 percent are college-bound, and students score highly on the SAT (1453) and ACT (20.7) college admission tests. The number of students enrolled in the school’s AP/IB courses is 31.6 percent and the exam pass rate on those two rigorous academic tests is 43.8 percent.

“As a principal, I am thrilled with the high academic standards our students, staff and parents have,” Diamond Ranch Principal, Suzanne Ripley, said. “We have a strong tradition of excellence at Diamond Ranch High School and it is wonderful to have major news agencies acknowledge the top high schools in the nation, and we are proud to be one of them.”

In addition to The Daily Beast’s ranking, Diamond Ranch was recognized as one of America’s most challenging high schools by the Washington Post and as one of the best high schools by U.S. News and World Report. Diamond Ranch is also a two-time California Distinguished School and successfully earned a six-year WASC accreditation term.

Other key components that make Diamond Ranch a standout school include establishing AP and Honors courses, achieving Digital High School status, having cutting-edge technology, athletic success and powerful co-curricular programs.

“Our vision at Pomona Unified is to prepare students to become first-class citizens with a world-class education, and these rankings only validate the success of that vision,” PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez said.  “Congratulations to our great teachers, parents and community for supporting our kids in achieving significant academic growth.”

 

Diamond Bar: Maple Hill Celebrates School Re-Opening

maple-hill-elementary-ribon-cutting

Maple Hill Elementary staff celebrates at ribbon cutting. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

By KELLI GILE

 

Diamond Bar – On Sept. 3, Walnut Valley Unified School District threw a party to celebrate the completion of the modernization at Maple Hill Elementary.

“Thank you all for coming out and supporting us today on our very special, special day. It means so much to have so many people here that care about Maple Hill,” said Principal Nancy Stingley.

About 200 friends of the school including community members, parents, students, current and former staff, district and local officials attended the grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Maple Hill would not be the school that it is today without your support,” Stingley added. She recalled when staff members moved into a village of 29 portables for construction that began in June of 2013.

The school family stuck together, worked hard learning new Common Core curriculum, implemented a positive behavior intervention program, and proudly earned a 2014 California Distinguished School Award.

The remodeled campus officially opened its doors on August 18, on the first day of the 2014-2015 school year.

“This has been a fantastic journey for us. Today is a day of celebration and of new beginnings,” Stingley said at the ceremony.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor thanked community members for their support of the construction projects throughout the district.

“It takes so many people to see a project through – especially to its fruition like we have here at Maple Hill. For the kids in this community, I’m so glad you get to go to this beautiful school,” Taylor said.

“Now our Maple Hill students will have a physical environment that will match the learning environment, and they so deserve it!” Board President Cindy Ruiz added.

“We’ve been given an extraordinary gift. This building – our home – has been transformed, and we are so grateful,” said fourth grade teacher Tami Barry.

Teachers led small groups on a tour of their new school after the ribbon cutting.

 

New Bicycle Safety Law

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL

Sacramento – With children heading back to school, motorists should expect to see more children riding to and from school on

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

their bicycles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) would like to remind the public that on Sept. 16, 2014, a new law affecting motorists and bicyclists takes effect. According to the law, a driver must allow three feet of distance when overtaking or passing a bicyclist. If three feet is not available, a driver must then slow to a safe speed and pass when no danger is present.

“Motorists are reminded to pay close attention as the school year approaches and exercise caution when they see bicyclists on the road,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Be sure to move over or slow down to pass when you see a bicyclist on the road and help keep our roadways a safer place.”

According to data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, in 2012, there were 153 bicyclists killed in California, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collision fatalities in California. “As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicyclists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart,” added Commissioner Farrow. “With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists.”

The danger surrounding motor vehicle traffic is just one aspect of a child’s safe passage to and from school. According to Safekids.org, more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to bicycling than any other sport. Bicycle helmets, which are required by law for children under 18 years of age in California, can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88 percent – yet only 45 percent of children 14 and under usually wear them.

The CHP joins with Safekids.org in offering the following traffic safety tips for bicyclists:

  • “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injuries and deaths from bicycle crashes.
  • Tell your children to ride on the right side of the road with traffic, not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible.
  • Use appropriate hand signals and obey traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and stoplights. Teach your children to make eye contact with drivers. Bicyclists should make sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they cross the street.
  • When riding at dusk, dawn, or in the evening, be bright and use lights – and make sure your bike has reflectors as well. It is also smart to wear clothes and accessories that have retro-reflective materials to improve bicyclist visibility to motorists.
  • Actively supervise children until you are comfortable that they are responsible to ride on their own.

 

The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.

Walnut Valley: Superintendent Takes ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

BY KELLI GILE

 

Dr. Bob Taylor, superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on August 22. See the video at www.wvusd.k12.ca.us. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Dr. Bob Taylor, superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on August 22. See the video at http://www.wvusd.k12.ca.us. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Dr. Bob Taylor, Superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District, accepted the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on Fri., Aug. 22.

The Ice Bucket Challenge phenomenon is spreading ALS awareness across the nation. People are taking the challenge and making a donation to help create a world without ALS. To date, ice bucket donations have reached $53.3 million.

The district leader was challenged by Jeff Jordan, Principal at Walnut High School, who took the challenge during football practice on August 21.

Taylor announced the surprise event at the end of a morning staff meeting, and about 50 employees gathered outside the District Office to cheer in support. Before getting soaked, he nominated his three assistant superintendents – Dr. Matt Witmer, Dr. Michelle Harold, and Jeanette Ullrich. They had 24 hours to accept the challenge.

Grounds Workers, Paul Moravec and Eric Sims, were chosen to pour several gallons of icy water on their boss.

“We were a little nervous,” they both admitted.

“I just didn’t want to drop it [the plastic tub] on his head!” Moravec added.

Help fight ALS and take the #IceBucketChallenge. For more information about the ALS Association or to make a donation, please visitwww.alsa.org.

 

 

 

Walnut Valley Staff Kicks-Off New School Year

BY KELLI GILE

 

Boy Scout Troop 777 led the opening flag ceremony. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Boy Scout Troop 777 led the opening flag ceremony. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District staff members ushered in the 2014-2015 school year during an annual Welcome Back event, held August 13.

About 1,000 certificated and classified employees had a chance to gather together after the summer break during the breakfast and opening program held at Calvary Chapel in Diamond Bar.

The band Symptom, from Diamond Bar High’s School of Rock, entertained the crowd during the outdoor continental breakfast. The Walnut High pep band kicked off the program with a flag ceremony led by Diamond Bar Boy Scout Troop 777, and the national anthem was performed the DBHS Marquis Show Choir.

The program included recognitions of Long-Service Employees, Teachers of the Year, and Cornerstone Award recipients.

Gale Taylor, the 2013 Classified Employee of the Year, and Sherry Robertson, the 2013-2014 District Teacher of the Year, took the stage to deliver messages to their peers.

“I am totally thrilled to be standing here among all of you who are people that make excellence a habit. We are all dedicated to creating an environment that promotes student success,” said Taylor, a Library Media Technician at South Pointe Middle School.

“We see hundreds of students, thousands over the years. And they need us to educate them and to guide them. What a huge responsibility, but what a huge honor. This is why we do our job,” said Sherry Robertson, a Humanities teacher at Chaparral Middle School.

A trio of 2013 Diamond Bar High graduates, Monique Magpayo, Carmen McCarrel and Tayler Lanning performed, “Brave.”

“What a wonderful way to kick-off the school year,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor said during his keynote address.

“Something I’ve learned the last year is the ‘Kids First’ philosophy that we have here in Walnut Valley. It has become so evident to me for the foundation of why our District has been and will continue to be successful. I see it in your classrooms, I see it in the offices, I see it on the playing fields. Whatever role you have in the District, I truly appreciate your commitment to the ‘Kids First’ philosophy.”

 

 

Walnut: A Great Start In Walnut Valley

BY KELLI GILE

 

Westhoff Elementary teachers and staff members are ready for the new school year. Westhoff is celebrating its 2014 Distinguished School Award – the third for the school. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Westhoff Elementary teachers and staff members are ready for the new school year. Westhoff is celebrating its 2014 Distinguished School Award – the third for the school. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – It’s back-to-school time in the Walnut Valley Unified School District. Nearly 14,600 students began classes in the 15 campuses on Mon., Aug. 18.

“We had a great first day,” said Walnut High School Principal Jeff Jordan. ”Students and staff were excited to be back. There was an upbeat attitude all day.”

The teens happily chatted at break time, stopped by their lockers, and checked schedules before dashing off to their next class.

Maple Hill Elementary in Diamond Bar opened doors to its completely modernized campus in Diamond Bar. Everyone was relocated to portable buildings during the $5.6 million construction project last year. This was the first chance for students and their families to see the new school.

“We made it!” exclaimed Principal Nancy Stingley. “Everybody’s here and inside, everybody’s happy, and everybody’s smiling.”

Fourth graders Gabrielle Zabresky, Valentina Yonemoto, Carlie Law and Ella Liu were excited to see their new classrooms before the school bell rang. What do they like best about school?

“We love math – it’s fun!” the girls exclaimed.

Fifth grade teacher Shirley Conner greeted students who were lined up before the 8 a.m. school bell rang.

“Welcome back to school. It’s beautiful inside!” she said

“It’s such a gift to us,” beamed fourth grade teacher Tami Berry. “Everything’s new and wonderful, and different. As we had time to get to know the school, you all will have time to get to know the school,” she told her students. “It’s going to be a very fun place to learn,” Berry added.

The school has a brand-new interior design, multipurpose room and exterior landscaping.  Classrooms feature state-of-the-art technology, skylights and generous storage cabinets. Six hundred new desks and chairs were purchased for the campus.

“It’s big and roomy, everything is clean and new, and up-to-date technologically,” said kindergarten teacher Lisa Esse, who has been at the school for 20 years.

“I look forward to another great school year at Suzanne Middle School,” said Principal Les Ojeda.  “We have a great number of returning students and new students that seem incredibly intelligent, enthusiastic and eager to learn.”

Westhoff Elementary celebrated the first day of school with balloons, chalk greetings, posters, music and a staff with welcoming smiles.

“It’s going to be a great school year!” said Principal Denise Rendon.

 

Walnut: Elementary to Host Teacher from China

BY KELLI GILE

 

Yang Jing and Principal

: Teacher Yang Jing will teach Chinese during the 2014-2015 school year through a fellowship awarded by the U.S. Department of State (shown with Principal Janet Green). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Walnut Elementary School welcomes, Yang Jing, who will teach Chinese in the school’s FLES (Foreign Language in Elementary School) program during the 2014-2015 school year.

Jing has been awarded a fellowship from the U.S. Department of State to participate in the 2014 Teachers of Critical Language Program (TCLP). Since 2006, TCLP has provided fellowships to over 190 primary and secondary school teachers of English, from Egypt and China, to teach in K-12 schools throughout the United States.

Jing arrived in Los Angeles for the very first time on Thurs. August 7, accompanied by her mentor Krystin Wong. They had spent the previous few days together in Washington, D.C. at TCLP training. She was greeted at the airport by her new Principal, Janet Green, and Community Liaison, Jenny Kwan-Hata.

“Since Jing teaches English in Beijing, it was easy to communicate with her immediately. We have been looking forward to meeting her for months and are amazed at the instant connections we had with her,” said Green.

Walnut Elementary participated in a nation-wide competition in order to host a TCLP teacher. Jing is one of a total of 22 teachers who have been selected from Egypt and China for participation in TCLP.

Jing is currently staying with Krystin Wong who teaches in the school’s Dual Language Immersion Program.   She will then live with different families throughout the year in order to experience a variety of American lifestyles.

Jing learned all the names of her fellow teachers before meeting them at a welcome party just two days after she arrived.

Jing is excited to begin teaching Chinese to students not enrolled in the Dual Language Immersion Program when school begins on August 18. She will teach kindergarten through 3rd graders, provide Mandarin intervention for DLI students, and team teach using the new Common Core State Standards. She will also have Mandarin clubs for students in grades 4 and 5.

In addition to teaching their native languages, TCLP exchange teachers expand the understanding of the world in their U.S. host communities by establishing strong ties with teachers, students, parents and members of community, and by sharing information about their home countries and cultures.

La Puente: 6th Annual Aldabella Scarpa Shoe Giveback

BY GINA K. WARD

(Photo Courtesy: Aldabella Scarpa)

(Photo Courtesy: Aldabella Scarpa)

La Puente – Right before school officially began this year, 300 elementary school girls walked down a red carpet to receive sweet surprises: designer shoes, backpacks filled with school supplies, free haircuts, cup cakes, and much more at the 6th Annual Aldabella Scarpa Shoe Giveback Event. The invitation-only event was held on Fri., Aug. 15 at Villacorta Elementary in La Puente.

An outpouring of community support allows Aldabella Scarpa, owned by alumna Monica Gonzales, to give back to La Puente schools in the Rowland Unified School District. Community members donated school supplies for the backpacks courtesy of California Credit Union, and in addition to the designer shoes, students received free haircuts from Supercuts West Covina, tacos from Taco Nazo, took part in craft activities thanks to Home Depot in City of Industry, enjoyed cupcakes from The Cake Mamas, entertainment by Hot 92.3 FM, dental kits from Tri-City Smiles in Hacienda Heights, and were able to visit additional sponsor-booths from SpeedZone, East Valley Health Center at Villacorta School, and Friends of the Heart for school supplies. Additional event sponsors were Walmart City of Industry, Global Processing System, OMG Hair Accessories, Krispy Kreme (off Azusa Blvd. in City of Industry), Starbucks and Stater Brothers (off Amar Rd. in West Covina).

“We want these young girls to have an amazing, positive experience and not allow circumstances in their lives to create limits. Our community supports them and we want them to dream big,” said Gonzales.

Students were pre-selected by school staff from Hurley, Northam and Villacorta Elementary Schools, part of RUSD. For more information visit www.RowlandSchools.org, download the free RUSD mobile app for iOS and Android devices, or follow on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/RowlandUSD.

Aldabella Scarpa™ is an entrepreneurial endeavor by Monica Gonzales in an effort to design the most fashionable and classic footwear and accessories with a purpose. Aldabella Scarpa donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair of shoes purchased. Call (626) 967-0066, visit www.aldabellascarpa.com, or follow them on Facebook.

 

 

Walnut: Suzanne Students Join Global Math Olympiad

BY KELLI GILE

Suzanne-7th-grade-math-olypians

Suzanne 7th Grade Math Olympian winners show their awards, showing with teacher Amy Erickson. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Suzanne Middle School students were among the 110,000 students worldwide to participate in the 2013-2014 Math Olympiad program. The team participated in a series of five monthly contests, with five problems each, from November to March, and weekly practice sessions with Suzanne math teachers and coaches, Amy Erickson and Victor Lu.

The Math Olympiad contests challenged students to solve unusual and difficult problems and to think creatively. Students were awarded trophies for top scores in each grade level as well as pins and patches of recognition.

“The students responded well to the challenge and were recognized for their achievements during an end of the year awards celebration,” Erickson said.

For the 6th Grade, William Lin came in first with a total of 21 correct out of 25. Lin, Darren Chen, Derek Wang, John Chou, Amber Tsao, Jennifer Zhang, Tyler Xu, and Melony Yu all received silver pins to signify a top 10% score. An embroidered patch was also awarded to Liwen Xia, Nicole Chiang, Katherine Lee, Catherine Wang, Curtis Lin, Daniel Ahu, Marco Chan, Jeremy Hsiao, Louis Wong and Kevin Chen for placing in the top 50%.

For the 7th Grade, Aaron Chang was awarded the 1st Place trophy, along with a patch signifying a top 50% score. Alice Zhang, Ethan Lin, Oscar Chou, Sylvester Yue, Angela Zhu, Jordin Wang, Felianne Teng, Yi Chen, Jerry Guo, Sheldon Zhu, Derick Tseng, Phillip Leung and Jing Wong also received patches for their 50% scores.

For the 8th Grade, Eugene Lo was awarded the 1st Place trophy along with a silver pin recognizing his top 10% score. Christopher Wang was also awarded a silver pin. Kevin Jensen, Lydia Chan, Fabiola Delvillar, Charles Gu, Matthew Nguyen and Irene Zhou received patches for their 50% scores.

 

Rowland Heights: RUSD And Teachers’ Assoc Reach Tentative Agreement

STAFF REPORTS

 

Rowland Heights – The Rowland Unified School District Board of Education announced on Thurs., July 10 that a comprehensive three year (2013-2016) Tentative Agreement was reached on Tuesday evening, July 8, by RUSD and the Association of Rowland Educators (ARE) negotiation teams after meeting with the state-appointed mediator for a fourth session. As a result, there will be no formal negotiations during the 2014-2015 school year, and only limited negotiations during the 2015-2016 school year.

 

RUSD Board President, Heidi L. Gallegos, observed, “The tentative agreement reached clearly recognizes the dedicated work of our Rowland teachers while leaving the District in a solid financial position for the future. I would like to acknowledge the hard work done on both sides of the aisle by our bargaining teams.”

 

Highlights of the Tentative Agreement include a multi-year agreement; salary increase of 4% retroactive to July 1, 2013; salary increase of 4%, effective July 1, 2014; District’s maximum contribution to employee health and welfare benefits increased to $11,000, effective Jan. 1, 2015; $1,500 cash-in-lieu payment for eligible employees who elect to opt out of District health and welfare benefits coverage; late start to continue at high schools for 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 schools years; and reduced counselor ratios.

 

ARE President, Shay Lohman, stated, “The Association is pleased that after a very long struggle a fair agreement has been reached and can be sent to membership for a vote. We are very grateful for the leadership provided recently by interim superintendent, Dr. John Roach, and we are excited about the possibilities that lay ahead for RUSD.”

 

The Tentative Agreement will be presented to ARE members for ratification within the next two to three weeks. After ratification, the agreement will be presented to the District’s Governing Board at its Aug. 12 meeting. As part of the District’s review process, the economic provisions of the Tentative Agreement will also be shared with the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

 

Each team vowed to work diligently to implement the terms of the agreement once it is approved by all parties.

 

“I am thrilled that the teams reached an agreement [yesterday],” said interim superintendent Roach. “The school year will begin with all employees focused on meeting the needs of our students.”

 

 

 

Diamond Bar: Former Quail Summit Students Get Engaged at School

BY KELLI GILE

former-quail-students-get-engaged

Michael Siacunco and Sarah Lin were engaged on July 11 at the exact place they met 17 years ago – the Quail Summit Elementary School amphitheater.

 

Diamond Bar – Michael Siacunco and Sarah Lin were engaged on July 11 at the exact place they met 17 years ago – the amphitheater at Quail Summit Elementary School.

Their story began on the second day of school in the 4th Grade.

“She chased me because she liked me,” he recalled.

“I liked him,” Lin acknowledged.

Siacunco even got in trouble for running on the playground that day, but he didn’t hold it against her. They became friends, dated during middle school, and then reconnected during college.

“Then we became best friends,” Lin said. Siacunco is currently serving in the US Air Force stationed in Denver, Colorado and Lin is a nurse at UCLA Medical Center.

Two years ago she wrote him letters during the eight-week basic training.

“I encouraged him and tried to keep him positive,” she said.

“I knew I was headed somewhere that I wanted to be.” Siacunco said. He still has the special letters.

They became a couple about a year ago.

“We were both finding our faith and we just took a leap of faith,” he said.

He’s the best,” Lin said.

Siacunco arranged the surprise proposal during leave in his hometown.

“We always talk about how this is where we met, “he said.

He incorporated all their favorite places into the occasion – Quail Summit Elementary, Chaparral Middle School, and Diamond Bar High, St. Denis Church, and the Diamond Bar Center.  A girlfriend drove Lin to each location where other friends holding a poster with a special memory and a gift greeted her.

“Every stop had a little blurb about what we were going through during that time in our lives.” Siacunco said.

“The best thing was that I had no idea!” Lin exclaimed.

But after a few stops, she got the picture.

“By the time we were at Quail Summit I already knew.”

The campus was decorated with lights and rose petals. About 30 family members and friends gathered in the amphitheater while video played photos and tributes.

“I was watching the projector and he came down the aisle singing, “As Beautiful As You,” by All 4 One. Then he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

“Ever since we were younger I would always get butterflies. When I proposed I got those same butterflies that I would get when I was in 6th Grade,” he said.

“I was in tears. I just nodded, I couldn’t even talk.” Lin said.

All the families and friends cheered.

“He’s known me for 17 years, there’s no doubt. He’s the one,” she said.

“She was my first girlfriend when we were nine, my first dance when we were ten, and my first kiss. And here we are 17 years later at the place where we met and she’s now my fiancée,” he said.