Category Archives: Local School News

Rowland Unified Registration For 2018-19 Now Open

Staff Reports

 Sign up now for new mandarin dual language immersion program and spanish dual programs that begin for kindergarten students this august

ROWLAND HEIGHTS– FEBRUARY 6, 2018 – Registration for the 2018-19 school year is now open in the Rowland Unified School District. All new Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, interested Dual Immersion Kindergarten students and any new students to the District must register online at https://aeries.rowlandschools.org/enroll/.

Parents can now register for both Mandarin and Spanish Dual Language Immersion Programs for Kindergartners this August. The new Mandarin Dual Language Immersion program would offer Kindergarten students a 50/50 English and Mandarin instructional model, where English speakers and Mandarin speakers would learn to read, speak and write in English and Mandarin. It would be hosted at Shelyn Elementary. There are two Spanish Dual Language Immersion Programs that also begin in Kindergarten, hosted at Roimer Elementary  and at Hurley Elementary.

There will be two District Kindergarten and Dual Language Immersion Parent Information Meetings: Thursday, February 15 at 6 p.m. at Rowland Elementary (2036 S. Fullerton Road, Rowland Heights 91748) and on Friday, February 16 at 8:30 a.m. at Villacorta Elementary (17840 E. Villacorta Street, La Puente 91744). Spanish and Chinese translators will be available, childcare not provided. For further information about the Dual Language Immersion curriculum for both Mandarin and Spanish, please call the Special Projects Office at (626) 854-8390. To enroll, visit https://aeries.rowlandschools.org/enroll/.

For additional enrollment information, call the local school’s office or Student Services at (626) 935-8281. If parents need to locate which school is their home school, visit http://www.rowlandschools.org/myschoollocator.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) classes are available at all elementary schools throughout the District. TK is a bridge between preschool and Kindergarten, giving younger children more time for hands-on, interactive learning. TK provides a high-quality Kindergarten readiness at no cost to parents with classes taught by credentialed teachers.

There will be two District TK Parent Information Meetings: Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Northam Elementary (17800 E. Renault Street, La Puente, 91744) and on Tuesday, February 20 at 4:30 p.m. at Ybarra Academy (1300 Brea Canyon Cutoff Rd., Walnut 91789). For more questions about Transitional Kindergarten, parents can call the Elementary Schools Division at (626) 854-8371.

District Specialty Programs: RUSD is proud of its award-winning schools and enrichment programs. Below are just a few highlights. More information can be found at: http://www.rowlandschools.org

California Gold Ribbon Schools: Proud of our 2017 California Gold Ribbon Schools: Rowland High School and Alvarado Intermediate; and our seven 2016 California Gold Ribbon Schools: Hollingworth Elementary, Jellick Elementary, Shelyn Elementary, Stanley G. Oswalt Academy, Telesis Academy of Science & Math, Villacorta Elementary and Ybarra Academy of Arts and Technology.

All elementary schools, as well as selected  intermediate schools in RUSD, offer before-and-after-school care starting at 6:30 a.m. with after school care until 6 p.m. by Options Surround Care, a licensed day-care provider. Additional after-school enrichment programs are throughout the District and vary at each school site.

MUSIC FOR ALL: EVERY elementary student in grades 1-6 receives music classes each week during the school day. Students can choose Strings, Band or General Music.

RIGOROUS ACADEMICS: Other specialty programs include International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools, Advanced Placement (AP), HONORS, GATE, “No Excuses University” and AVID college culture schools.

LANGUAGES: Across the District students can learn a foreign language. Mandarin and Spanish Dual Language Immersion Programs begin in Kindergarten, and languages are offered at Intermediate and High Schools.

ENRICHMENT: Rowland has a strong commitment to enrichment programs for students. A wide variety of visual and performing arts, athletic programs, along with Robotics, Engineering, Science Olympiad and after-school language classes are at several schools.

COLLEGE & CAREER FOCUSED: Rowland Unified School District educators are committed to innovative learning for all, to prepare every student for success in college and the workforce. RUSD is proud that both Nogales and Rowland High Schools offer a wide array of AP and Honor Classes, the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, and Career Technical Education Classes and a Career Certification Program, where students can study one of six career pathways: Arts & Communications, Business, Family & Consumer Sciences, Health & Medical Services, Public & Human Services, and Technology. Each year RUSD students are accepted and attend the nation’s most prestigious colleges and universities and earn more than $2 million in scholarships.

School Lunch And School Breakfast Programs

Kelli Gile

FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE MEALS IN THE NATIONAL

WALNUT – Walnut Valley Unified School District announces its policy to serve nutritious meals every school day under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.

The household size and income criteria identified below will be used to determine eligibility for free, reduced-price, or full-price meal benefits.  Children from households whose income is at or below the levels shown here are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Children who receive CalFresh, CalWORKs, or FDPIR benefits are automatically eligible for free meals regardless of the income of the household in which they reside.

Effective July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018, children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals if the household income is less than or equal to the federal guidelines.

 

 

 

 FREE

eligibility scale

LUNCH, BREAKFAST, MILK

 reduced

eligibility scale

LUNCH, BREAKFAST, MILK
household size Annual monthly twice monthly every two

weeks

 weekly annual monthly twice monthly every two

weeks

 weekly
1 $ 15,678 $ 1,307 $   654 $  603 $  302 $ 22,311 $ 1,860 $   930 $   859 $  430
2 21,112 1,760 880 812 406 30,044 2,504 1,252 1,156 578
3 26,546 2,213 1,107 1,021 511 37,777 3,149 1,575 1,453 727
4 31,980 2,665 1,333 1,230 615 45,510 3,793 1,897 1,751 876
5 37,414 3,118 1,559 1,439 720 53,243 4,437 2,219 2,048 1,024
6 42,848 3,571 1,786 1,648 824 60,976 5,082 2,541 2,346 1,173
7 48,282 4,024 2,012 1,857 929 68,709 5,726 2,863 2,643 1,322
8 53,716 4,477 2,239 2,066 1,033 76,442 6,371 3,186 2,941 1,471
For each additional household member, add:
  $ 5,434 $453 $    227 $   209 $ 105 $  7,733 $   645 $    323 $   298 $  149

 

Households do not need to turn in an application when the household receives a notification letter saying that all children automatically qualify for free meals when any household member receives benefits from CalFresh, CalWORKs, or FDPIR. Children who meet the definition of foster, homeless, migrant, or runaway, and children enrolled in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free meals. Contact school officials if any child in the household is not on the notification letter. The household must let school officials know if they do not want to receive free or reduced-price meals.

Applications will be sent to the household with a letter about the free and reduced-price meal program. Households that want to apply for meal benefits, must fill out one application for all children in the household and give it to the nutrition office at 880 South Lemon Avenue, Walnut, CA 91789.

Households may turn in an application at any time during the school year. If you are not eligible now, but your household income goes down, household size goes up, or a household member starts receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, or FDPIR, you may turn in an application at that time. Information given on the application will be used to determine eligibility and may be verified at any time during the school year by school officials. The last four digits of the Social Security number from any adult household or checking that you do not have a Social Security number is required if you include income on the application.

Households that receive Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits, may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals by filling out an application.

Foster children are eligible for free meals and may be included as a household member if the foster family chooses to also apply for the non-foster children on the same application. Including foster children as a household member may help the non-foster children qualify for free or reduced-price meals. If the non-foster children are not eligible, this does not keep foster children from receiving free meals.

Your child’s eligibility status from last school year will continue into the new school year for up to 30 school days or until the school processes your new application, or your child is otherwise certified for free or reduced-price meals. After the 30 school days, your child will have to pay full price for meals, unless the household receives a notification letter for free or reduced-price meals. School officials do not have to send reminder or expired eligibility notices.

If you do not agree with the decision or results of verification, you may discuss it with school officials. You also have the right to a fair hearing, which may be requested by calling or writing the hearing official:

Danny Kim, Director of Pupil Services ~ 880 South Lemon Avenue, Walnut CA 91789 ~ (909) 595-1261 x 31311

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

 

South Pointe’s Puppy with a Purpose

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR-Passionate educators are willing to do just about anything to foster student success.

Meet Kevin Duh, a social studies teacher at South Pointe Middle School in Diamond Bar.

The out-of-the-box thinking educator has found a way to combine his desire to address the emotional needs of his 8th grade students and his love of dogs.

This year, Duh was granted permission to bring a 3-month old puppy named Laker to his class as an official therapy dog-in-training.

Since the first day of school in August, the lovable Goldendoodle, has been at Duh’s side at all times during the school day.

“I take him wherever I go because I want him to understand the dynamics of the campus,” he said.

“He’s like my shadow!”

Duh, who has been teaching for six years, said he chose the popular “designer” hybrid dog for several reasons.

“Laker has the intelligence and hypo-allergenic qualities of a Poodle, friendliness of a Golden Retriever, and people aren’t afraid of him,” he said.

“Already, two of my students have gotten over their fear of dogs,” Duh reports.

Laker, who is now 8-months old, has proven himself as a source of unconditional love to the young teens.

“This year, the kids seem much happier in the classroom,” he says.

Duh says his 160 students quickly developed a wonderful relationship with the gregarious and playful pup.

“I think he brightens our class up,” confirms Katie Song, 13.

“Sometimes when we’re feeling stressed, he’s just always there for us!”

“I like having Laker in class,” added classmate Kris Ng.

“He helps us feel better to just reach down and pet him during the day,”.

More than that, Laker is a comforting resource for students having a bad day or going through tough times with family issues.

“I know there’s a lot of brokenness in our community. He just brings a light into that,” Duh said.

“Laker provides a place where students can drop their anxieties on him.”

Duh has data that his dog has aided three students with testing anxiety during his short time on campus.

“For example, one student had a 65% average and I suggested he take Laker with him for his next test,” he explains.

“Within a couple weeks his scores went up to 84%. It’s a huge jump!”

Laker has also provided dozens of students with comfort of being a furry companion.

“I love Laker, he’s my best friend,” says classmate Kristin Joe, who doesn’t have a dog at home.

What’s it like bringing a puppy to school?

“He’s very playful, loving, likes to be petted, and be in constant contact with people,” Duh explains.

“For some reason, he has an instinct that when I’m teaching or doing something important, he holds off his energy!”

Duh admits that animals in school settings haven’t traditionally mixed, and with a dog it’s a “goliath” of a responsibility.

But this teacher is very dedicated to constantly making sure the dog is well-taken care of and that his students wash their hands after they pet him.

He also carves out time each day to “run out” Laker’s puppy energy.

“There’s a huge time commitment – it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be!” Duh admits.

The adorable curly-haired pup was even introduced as a new staff member during a Board Meeting, took an official school ID photo, and has hundreds of Instagram followers @lakerthegoldendoodle.

Laker will be able to take the test to become a certified therapy dog this summer when he reaches his first birthday.

Once Laker passes his test, the school plans to integrate the therapy dog into its social-emotional wellness program, according to Principal Susan Arzola.

The Community Club provides support by funding the puppy’s training classes and insurance.

“We are all cheering on Laker to make sure he passes all his classes!” said Arzola.

“This year, he’s a cute puppy. Next year, I want him to be a schoolwide resource,” adds Duh.

“I would also love to see this program grow throughout our district and for a therapy dog to be at every site.”

“I feel like we’ve stumbled onto something that’s untapped!” Duh adds.

For now, the puppy with a purpose will continue bringing joy to the students at South Pointe.

“Laker will be here with me as long as he’s able. It’s very exciting!” Duh said.

 

Scout Gives Back to Elementary School

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR—On Tuesday, Evergreen Elementary students had a surprise on campus when they returned from the three-day holiday weekend.

An enormous 16’x27’ colorful map of the United States had been painted on the amphitheater stage.

Diamond Bar High senior Jarrett Dang, 17, a member of Boy Scout Troop #730, decided to give back to his alma mater by completing his Eagle Scout Project at the school.

The Eagle Project is an important step in obtaining the highest Boy Scout ranking.

Dang designed and carried out the community service project with the help of 33 fellow Boy Scouts, volunteers, friends, and parent leaders.

He thought the map would serve as a “good educational tool for teachers” on the campus.

“I hope my project will serve as a fun and interactive way for students to learn the geography of their country!” he said.

After weeks of preparation and fundraising, the teen went to Evergreen on Friday to prepare the area by scrubbing the cement with a degreaser.

The following day, the volunteer team carefully laid out and taped down eight large stencil pieces that outlined the map and borders of each state.

The group then carefully spray painted holes in each stencil that marked the state borders.

After lifting up the stencils, the scouts began connecting the dots to form the borders.

By the end of the day, they painted all 50 states according to the blue, yellow, red, and green color scheme.

“I decided to paint California green because Evergreen’s colors are green and white,” he shared.

He also added a white diamond shape where the Diamond Bar school is located.

On Sunday, the crew applied a second coat of paint and touched up the borders, while the adults spray-painted the state abbreviations.

The final step was adding “Boy Scout Troop 730 Eagle Project 2018” in the southwest corner of the artwork.

“The students love looking at Jarrett’s gift to the school,” said exclaimed Principal Trina Dreyer.

“We are grateful that he chose his elementary school as the place to complete his Eagle Scout project!”

 

Mt. SAC to Hold “Cash for College”

Staff Reports

WALNUT– Mt. San Antonio College will offer free financial aid assistance to area high school seniors and their parents during its annual “Cash for College” fair on Saturday, Feb. 3. The event will include three sessions starting at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.

“This event is all about helping students fill out the necessary financial aid forms so that they don’t miss out on thousands of dollars that may be available to them,” said Mt. SAC Financial Aid Director Chau Dao.

Cash for College provides hands-on assistance to college-bound students and their parents in completing and filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms for the 2018-19 academic year. The event also helps students maximize their financial aid prospects by meeting the March 2 priority financial aid filing deadline. Assistance with the California Dream Act application will also be available. Filing applications early is recommended.

Parents and students must bring a copy of students’ Social Security cards or permanent resident cards, and a 2016 federal 1040 tax return and W-2. If 2016 information is not available, a 2015 tax return may be used along with 2015 W-2 forms. The workshop information and assistance can be used to apply to any college, not just Mt. SAC.

To make a reservation, visit the event website online at http://www.mtsac.edu/financialaid/cashfair.html.

For more information, call the Mt. SAC Financial Aid Office at (909) 274-4553.

 

2 WHS Teachers Achieve National Board Certification

By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT, CA–Walnut High English teachers Kellee Lyons and Jennifer Maletz have earned the profession’s highest mark of achievement, as official National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT).

The dynamic duo completed all four certification components between January and May of last year, a process that can take up to three years to complete.

“We both agree that it was harder than our respective Master’s degrees and I am really proud of our accomplishment!” Maletz, an educator with 15 years of experience, said.

Only 3% of the nation’s teachers successfully pass the rigorous, performance-based, peer-review program, demonstrating their proven impact on student learning and achievement.

A total of seven Walnut Valley educators currently hold the top accomplishment, including Jeanette Koh – District Office, Dena Lordi – Diamond Bar High, Paul McLaughlin – Walnut High, Helen Papadopoulos – Suzanne Middle School, and Mona Warren – Evergreen Elementary.

A total of 5,470 new NBCTs were announced this month, joining the growing community of more than 118,000 educators across all 50 states.

 

 

Walnut Valley USD to begin enrolling for 2018-19 school year

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—The Walnut Valley Unified School District will soon begin registration for the 2018-2019 school year for children in transitional kindergarten and kindergarten through fifth grade.

Registration dates are:

January 16-19, 2018—for those children with siblings already attending school in our district;

January 22, 2018 & on—for those elementary children new to the district, at any grade level.

You may register for transitional kindergarten if your child turns 5 years old September 2nd – December 2nd.  Students must be 5 years of age on or before September 1, to enroll in kindergarten for the 2018-2019 school year.

Space is limited!  Please visit your neighborhood elementary school to enroll your child for the upcoming school year.

At the time of registration, parents will be asked to present a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport, proof of the child’s immunizations, and for kindergarten and first grade proof of an oral health examination.  For residency verification, parents will also need to provide either final escrow papers, mortgage statement or lease/rental agreement, along with a current utility bill (gas, water or electric bill) and a driver’s license (or California I.D.) with current home address.  Enrollment is on-going, and your residence address determines the elementary school where you should enroll your child.

The Walnut Valley Unified School District offers a quality day care program at all elementary sites, for both before and after school hours.  You may contact the Child Care Office at 909-444-3460 for additional information and fees.

Shown:

A strong start for young learners! Walnut Valley USD will soon begin registration for transitional kindergarten (shown) and kindergarten through fifth grade for the 2018-2019 school year.

 

Busy Hands, Hearts a Night of Giving

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT — The sounds of holiday music, delightful conversation, warm hearts, and busy hands filled Walnut Elementary School’s multipurpose room during a Family Night of Giving held December 15.

Students penned letters to show support for first responders that would later be distributed through the Operation Gratitude project.

At another table, families worked side-by-side tying knots on fleece blankets for City of Hope patients while enjoying cookies and hot chocolate.

Students also made a take-home snowman craft to remember the evening of compassion they shared with family and friends.

In total, over 100 pairs of pajamas, a truck full of toys for needy children, and blankets for local shelter animals were collected for the giving event.

“We hope that our small contribution this holiday season will provide a bit of cheer to children, animals, and first responders,” said elementary learning specialist Jill Takayama.

Walnut Valley USD Trustees Elect New Officers

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Congratulations, Madam President! WVUSD Board President Dr. Tony Torng passes the gavel to Cindy Ruiz who was elected 2018 Board President during the December 13 meeting.

Pass the Gavel!

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT–The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees elected Cindy Ruiz as president, Larry Redinger as vice president, and Helen Hall as clerk during the annual reorganization meeting on December 13.

These roles are one-year terms and effective immediately.

Trustee Dr. Tony Torng was honored with an engraved plaque for his outstanding leadership as the 2017 Board president.

“I’d like to thank Dr. Torng for his wonderful service this past year as president and welcome back Mrs. Cindy Ruiz as president. We’re looking forward to a great next year!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Outgoing Board President Dr. Tony Torng is honored during the annual reorganization meeting on December 13. Shown with trustees Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, and Helen Hall.

The WVUSD Board of Trustees usually meet the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the District Education Center Board Room located at 880 S. Lemon Avenue in Walnut.  Please visit the website at www.wvusd.k12.ca.us or call the District Office at (909) 595-1261 to confirm exact dates, times, and location for meetings.

 

Automation And Robotics Course Launches At Suzanne

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—A new class at Suzanne Middle School is teaching students how the world around them works while learning important skills such as team work, problem-solving, and a don’t-give-up attitude.

Seventh graders have the opportunity to take Robotics and Automation, as part of the District’s STEAM initiative.

The new course is one of several Project Lead The Way (PLTW) classes offered to students from elementary through high school.

Students learn about 11 mechanisms, the assemblies that control motion, and how they are used. Mechanisms include chain drive, bevel gear, lead screw, rack and pinion, etc.

“They are used in every single project,” said teacher Vicky Silcock.

“Students learn what they’re used for, how they work, and how they rotate.”

The group put their new skills to the test in a survival challenge last week.

Students had to imagine they were the last survivors on Earth with no running water, electricity, and barely any food.

Using VEX robotics parts, they built windmills complete with a wood-cutting saw, water pump, and grain grinder to ensure their survival.

The project has a real-world application so they can see when and how it is used.

“Project Lead the Way is cool!” said Kingsley Tang, age 12.

Students navigate their way through gear and drive ratios, reciprocating motion for water pumps, installing tiny input cranks to turn axles on chain drives, output gears that allow windmill blades to rotate clockwise, and more.

“I look forward to this class every day,” said Mehki Lin while installing a water pump feature.

“I like working with the tools!”

This is not a class where the teacher gives the answer.

Silcock provides guidance, but students must work to solve the challenges on their own.

“There’s a lot of trial and error during the engineering design process,” the technology teacher said.

Students collaborate and problem solve, and then document their findings in notebooks.

There are no textbooks and instruction is computer-based in the PLTW class.

“We can see a finished product (on the website), but we have to figure out how to get there,” said classmate Robert McCormick.

Ian Ceballos utilized a mechanism, gear, and chain drive while working on a pull toy challenge.

“I think this class is preparing us for the future,” he said.

“We use our imagination. It’s a little challenging, but we figure out things on our own.”

The class recently created a prototype for a foot orthosis for a child with cerebral palsy during an instant design challenge.

“It was challenging, but we knew it would help other people,” McCormick said.

 

 

Food Drive Brings in 8,000 Donations

By Kelli Gile

Walnut —Walnut High Key Club members counted, sorted, and boxed more than 8,000 cans of food stored under the stadium bleachers, and now those cans are filling pantries in local homes and food banks.

Donations of canned vegetables, beans, soup, meats, and other staple foods poured in during the two-week Yes We Can compassion project. “The kids were bringing in cans every morning while I was coming in to work,” said Key Club advisor Justin Panlilio who has headed up the project for the past seven years.

“It put me in a good mood knowing so many needy families will have food during the holidays,” he said.

Donations doubled, up from 4,000 last year, during the 50th annual food drive held in partnership with Kiwanis of Walnut Valley, Panlilio reported.

One reason was a new collaboration with Diamond Bar High’s Key Club that brought in several hundred additional donations. The schools came together to show their compassion for helping the community.

“We thought it was a good idea to get both schools involved,” Panlilio said. Walnut High’s Key Club also hosted a class competition to boost donations, offering a pizza party to the winning class.

It worked, Kellee Lyons’ English class brought in over 550 cans.

In addition, Panlilio led an a capella choir benefit concert on December 10 with free admission for a canned food donation. On Saturday, December 16, about 35 Walnut High and Kiwanis Club volunteers gathered at 7 a.m. to distribute the food. “I think it’s insane that we have 8,000 cans this year!” commented senior Nathan Lin, one of the 30 cabinet members charged with organizing volunteers for the project.

The teens worked in unison while loading 200 packed cardboard boxes as several cars and trucks arrived on campus. In total, about 90 local families will receive two boxes with about 50-pounds of canned food, a large frozen turkey, fresh vegetables, and fruit.

“This project is about helping people in our community. We couldn’t do it without the kids!” said Ray McMullen, a 53-year Kiwanis charter member.

“This is one of the best things I do. It just makes me feel good!” shared Kiwanis member Ralph Mendez.

“I grew up in a big family with six kids and we were always taught to give back.”

The 350-member Walnut High Key Club will next be decorating Rose Parade floats and hosting an InterKey dinner fundraiser to benefit a pediatric trauma program.

Before the distribution day, Key Club volunteers put in many hours organizing and packing donations at the bleacher storage area, known as the dungeon.

“I can say without a doubt that everyone has a heart to help,” Lin said. Sophomore Jasper Wang showed up on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. What was his motivation?

“When they get a knock on the door and get a box delivered, you can just see the happiness on their faces,” he said.

 

Diamond Bar High Wins Golden Bell Award

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR–Diamond Bar High is a well-established leader in student achievement in the state and nation.

Staff members are dedicated to providing personalized educational programs, challenging students to discover their unique gifts, and supporting each student to realize their potential.

But, the quest for greatness isn’t always academic.

Last year, the campus launched a Wellness Center to provide an extra layer of counseling support and wellness education services.

And in just 15 months, the school’s pioneering efforts have been validated.

The California School Boards Association (CSBA) selected Diamond Bar High to receive the prestigious 2017 Golden Bell Award for its innovative efforts in addressing the wellness needs of the over 3,000 students on campus.

The heart of the Wellness Center is helping students learn to cope with everyday problems, according to coordinator Sandy Davis.

“The educational services and resources provided promote student responsibility, resiliency and efficacy in students’ own wellness decisions,” said Davis.

The center services approximately 30 students weekly with the motto “Empowering Student Wellness from Within.”

This year, the growing program is staffed by 23 student interns who can relate peer-to-peer on most challenging teen issues.  These wellness consultants receive an additional 30 hours of intensive training, as well as earning Mental Health First Aide certification.

The center offers stress and anxiety relief, progressive relaxation exercises, and guided meditation designed to help students reduce stress.

Weekly therapy dog visitations are among the most popular of the services offered to students and staff.

Recent outreach efforts include mini-workshops on stress management facilitated for two AP European History classes.

The Wellness Program also garnered the 2017 California Gold Ribbon and 2016 Inspired Changemaker awards by Facebook and Yale’s Center for Emotional Intelligence.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to support teens’ positive and successful transition into the next phase of their lives,” Davis said.

The CSBA Golden Bell Award presentation was made during the Annual Education Conference on November 30 in San Diego.

 

Walnut High Athletes Take Part in Fall Signing Day

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Six standout athletes made their college choices official during a lunchtime signing ceremony at Walnut High School.

Congratulations to the following students who received scholarships to play their sports in college: James Arakawa, University of the Pacific – Baseball; Trussi Li, University of Denver –  Golf; Cara Le, Fresno Pacific – Swimming; Stephanie Dye, York College – Soccer; Tyiona Watkins, University of Washington – Basketball; and Katherine Muzi, University of Southern California – Golf.

Families, friends, teammates and coaches gathered on November 15 as the seniors made their commitments final.

“What a great accomplishment!” said principal Brandon Dade while addressing the crowd gathered to honor the Mustang athletes.

“I want to congratulate each of you. This is something that doesn’t happen very often,” he said.

After introducing the elite group, athlete director Jerry Person gave the signal for the athletes to sign National Letters of Intent to join their choice colleges for the 2018-19 academic year.

“Go ahead, get your pens, and sign your letters!” he announced.

Star guard/forward Tyiona Watkins committed to play basketball at the University of Washington.

She is currently ranked as the No. 14 wing player in the class of 2018 by ESPN and No. 20 by Prospects Nation.

“Tyiona is an outstanding athlete and leader,” said Walnut High coach Lori Huckler.

“She works hard on and off the court to always improve as a player and a student.”

The 17-year-old said she was having a “tough choice” selecting a team, but once she stepped foot on the Huskies campus, the decision became easy.

“When I went up there, I just felt like it was home,” she said.

Her father, Charles, shared that the family has been working toward a signing day since Tyiona was just six-years-old.

“It was our dream and today is a total milestone. We have a lot to be thankful for!”

Shortstop James Arakawa will be heading to University of the Pacific in the fall.

“This means a whole lot,” the 18-year-old said after the signing ceremony.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

Arakawa, who first picked up a baseball bat at age six, said playing with a chip on his shoulder has given him more motivation to succeed.

“My job is proving myself every day on the field,” he explained.

Arakawa’s parents, Sandra and Jamie, were also among the happy families present at the signing ceremony.

His mother attributes the prized athletic scholarship to hard work and dedication.

“We’re just so grateful!” she said. “He has passion and heart – and he’s good at it!”

Arakawa experienced the pinnacle of success when the Mustang baseball team captured the Division 3 CIF title last spring.

“All the practice and hard work definitely paid off,” he said.

“I guess I’m going to keep having that chip on my shoulder – it’s working for me!”

 

Updated Info On Olympic Trials In Walnut

Staff Reports

The Walnut City Council will be having a council meeting on Wednesday, December 13 at 7 p.m.  The question many are asking is: “Will the Olympic trials be on the agenda for open discussion this time?”

Earlier this year, Mt. San Antonio College (SAC) won the bid to have the Track and Field Olympic Trials at the campus. Whether or not they are able to get the school ready for the trials is still up in the air at this time. A stadium still needs to be built and the deadline to build in time for the trials is quickly approaching. It has been reported that the City of Walnut may not be in favor of the trials being held in their city. The reasons to date have been unclear and it has not been open for discussion as to why it hasn’t been on the agenda at past City Council meetings. Rumors are that it mostly likely won’t be approved by the council, which could cost Walnut and the cities in the surrounding areas an estimated $40 million dollars. That number is conservatively based on what Oregon claims they will lose because they didn’t win the bid.

The lack of information that has been released on the subject led to a misunderstanding that a final vote would take place at the Council Meeting on December 13. We were informed that there will not be a final vote and at this time, it is unclear if an open forum discussion will even be on the agenda. We also recently received information that the city may be seeking an injunction to stop construction of the stadium, which is needed to support the trials. It seems as though driving a truck loaded with dirt on a Walnut city street has been deemed unsafe and permits have not been issued to do so at this time.

Reports indicate that the entire estimated amount of $40 million in revenue won’t be given solely to the City of Walnut. It leaves us to wonder if that played into the decision to stall the construction until the point of no return? That is a question that we hope will be addressed at a city council meeting at some point. The estimated $40 million in revenue could benefit Walnut and the surrounding communities since Walnut doesn’t have hotels in the city. But unfortunately, the surrounding communities are not involved in the decision process.

So local business owners, sports fans and anyone that supports the building of the Mt. SAC stadium, mark December 13 at 7pm on your calendars so you can attend the City Council Meeting.  If the city does decide to have an open discussion about the project, let your voice be heard.

 

 

Walnut Valley Trustees Celebrate Star Students, Community Partners

By Kelli Gile

 WALNUT– In keeping with tradition, the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees honored outstanding students and community partners during the November 15 meeting.

C.J. Morris Elementary fourth graders Kailyn Park and Nyla Rivera authored “Everyone Has A Right”, a friendship book they wrote to raise awareness about students with special needs.

The caring students were commended with the Super Star Student Award.

Kailyn and Nyla spend time at recess getting to know students in the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) class.  They model how to care about others and value differences.

Their advocacy work has created a more inclusive environment on campus. To date, they have donated nearly $200 to the ASD class from the book’s proceeds.

“They truly embody what it means to be I.B. students by showing that they not only care, but dare to act to make a difference,” said Principal Shehzad Bhojani.

Longtime parent volunteer Sheila Wright received the Partner in Education Award.

Sheila has been president of the C.J. Morris Community Club for the past four years.  Under her leadership, fundraising efforts, parental involvement and school spirt have steadily increased.

“She embraces an inclusive philosophy to address the needs of our culturally, ethnically and socio-economically diverse parent community,” Bhojani said.

Sheila has strong interpersonal skills and utilizes multiple platforms to communicate with the parent community.  She is a good listener who validates the ideas brought up by her team, and is open to suggestions in improving the effectiveness of the programs that are offered.

“Sheila is fully committed to improving the educational experience of our C.J. Morris students,” he added.

Parent volunteer Tom Jordan received the Partner in Education Award for South Pointe Middle School.

For the past three years, Tom has been an active member of the school’s Community Club and currently serves as president. He is also a School Site Council and District LCAP Committee representative.

If Tom isn’t providing the parent voice at a meeting, he is selling snacks at home games and performances, or organizing fundraisers.

“His innovation, enthusiasm, and infectious positive energy inspire parents, teachers, and students alike,” said Principal Susan Arzola.

South Pointe 8th grader Yssael Gutierrez, a.k.a. Ironman, was unanimously voted by staff, out of over 900 candidates, to receive the Super Star Student Award.

“He has inspired all of us to embrace life’s challenges and tackle them head on,” Arzola said.

Last year was probably the toughest of this young man’s life and yet he was able to overcome a huge challenge, she said.

“Yssael came back this year with a strong, positive “can do” attitude. We know nothing can hold him back!”

He is proud to be a Panther and cheers on his peers every chance he gets.  He puts his whole heart into all that he does from fundraisers to athletics.

“Yssael exemplifies the strength of character and community we can all only aspire to,” Arzola added.

Additionally, the Walnut High School boys baseball and girls swim teams received special recognition for reaching the highest level of success as Division 3 CIF Champions.

 

Kindergartners Join Thanksgiving Feast

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

By Kelli Gile 

DIAMOND BAR—About 120 Evergreen Elementary students wearing pilgrim and Native American paper hats sat side-by-side for a Thanksgiving feast on Friday morning.

Kindergarten teacher Mona Warren, costumed in traditional dress and moccasins, opened the event with a Native American blessing.

The children echoed each line using hand gestures.

“And now may the great spirits, of all great spirits, be with all of you, now and forever more!” they said in unison.

Then the youngsters joined in a Thanksgiving song with Warren accompanying on guitar.

“The pilgrims came to America a long, long time ago. They sailed on the Mayflower a long, long time ago. They made friends with the Wampanoag a long, long time ago,” they sang.

Before the meal, Warren asked the children to share something they are thankful for with the person next to them.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

“I’m thankful for my teacher and everything,” said five-year-old Jeremy Han.

“I’m thankful for my mom,” added classmate Christine Diaz.

“I’m thankful for my toys – all of them!” chimed Evan Tasker.

Then the youngsters began sampling the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, corn bread, and pumpkin pie.

Popcorn filled paper canoes decorated with teepee, buffalo, fire, love, and water symbols were at each place setting.

Some of the children gobbled up the traditional holiday meal, while others were content with a tiny taste of each dish.

“Mashed potatoes and popcorn are my favorites!” exclaimed Susanna Basilious wearing a white pilgrim bonnet.

“I like the popcorn and apple juice,” added five-year-old Orlando Perez.

The children also created keepsake handprint placemats and macaroni necklaces for their feast.

Evergreen teachers prepared the food, while about 20 parent volunteers were on hand setting up and serving the November 17 meal.

“We’ve been learning about the Wampanoag nation and the pilgrims,” said kindergarten teacher Diana Rogers.

Kathleen Riddle’s transitional kindergarten (TK) class wore decorated vests made from grocery sacks and headbands with feathers.

“The Wampanoag typically only had one or two feathers,” said the 19-year veteran teacher.

“I’m thankful for my TK students, I just love them,” Riddle added. “And for all my grandbabies!”

 

Teachers Of The Year 2017

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Fifteen of Walnut Valley Unified School District’s finest educators were honored during the 20th annual Salute to Teachers on Wednesday.

The 2016-2017 Teachers of the Year, one from each site, were chosen by their peers as shining examples of this noble profession.

Over 300 educators, family, friends, and local officials gathered for the celebration of excellence held at the Diamond Bar High School Theatre on October 18.

Congratulations to the following Teachers of the Year:  Jill Wilson-Fairbanks – Castle Rock Elementary, Jennifer Hildebrandt – Chaparral Middle School, Rochelle Mortensen – C.J. Morris Elementary, Elisabeth Jones – Collegewood Elementary, Alice Oldag – Evergreen Elementary, William Foley – Diamond Bar High, Rebecca Rogers – Maple Hill Elementary, Tamara Schlachter – Quail Summit Elementary, Johann Aaron – Ron Hockwalt Academies, Annie Kim – South Pointe Middle School, Alexis Lujan – Suzanne Middle School, Giselle Cordova – Vejar Elementary, Stephanie Kalscheuer – Walnut Elementary, Chiara Morgan – Walnut High School, and Margaret Hamel – Westhoff Elementary.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor commended the outstanding, innovative group of educators for the work they do every day to support students.

“I have the pleasure of going into our classrooms and seeing the quality of teachers we have. I’m so proud to get to work with our teaching staff!”

“Every single study credits the classroom teacher as the number one indicator for student achievement,” he added.

“And when you look at Walnut Valley, one of the highest performing districts in the county, it’s no wonder why our students excel.”

Digital photography teacher William “Bill” Foley was named the 2017 District Teacher of the Year at the culmination of the program.

He has a sincere and genuine passion for his craft and demonstrates a tremendous amount of care to every student that walks into his classroom.

The 34-year veteran educator has taught in Walnut Valley USD for the past 17 years and is in his eighth year at Diamond Bar High.

“Being named District Teacher of the Year has been the greatest honor of my life,” he said.

Foley supports his students by celebrating their creativity. He shares their talents through the photos that decorate the campus, are posted on the school website and social media, and published in the school yearbook.

He can often be found on the sidelines at all types of extra-curricular and sporting events working with his students to capture amazing moments of the school community.

Additionally, he has established and ongoing articulation with Mt. San Antonio College which allows his students to attend fieldtrips to the college photo lab, construct photography portfolios, and complete the articulation exam for college credit.

Foley proudly showed several examples of student work as he addressed the audience during the program.

He described how students repair old family photos, create Alphabet City posters, learn about shutter speed, take candid pictures, and manipulate color/black and white images among the many lessons in his classes.

“My goal each year is for students to develop a passion for photography, have the tools to produce good images, and to never be content with average, boring images again!”

The recognition event included personalized tributes, awards, and student entertainment by the Diamond Bar High brass quintet under the direction of Steve Acciani.

Each Teacher of the Year received a golden apple bell award courtesy of the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation. Honorees received rolling carts filled with gifts, school supplies, and certificates of achievement.

A special thanks to the following event sponsors: Schools First Federal Credit Union, Chaffey Federal Credit Union, Massage Envy, Chick-fil-A, Benihana Restaurant, LifeTouch Photography, Farmer Boys, Julie’s Café, Mr. G’s Pizza, The Whole Enchilada, Rubio’s, My Lunch Spot, Roule Construction, Complete Business Systems, American Diversity Business Solutions, Sandy Best – BB&T Insurance, Yogurtland, and Chipotle.

 

Walnut High Stages ‘Much Ado About Nothing’

By Kelli Gile

 WALNUT, CA—Walnut High School of the Arts will present Much Ado About Nothing, one of Shakespeare’s funniest and best loved comedies, showing November 1-4.

Gossip, intrigue, and love are in the air in Much Ado About Nothing!

Claudio and Hero are meant for one another, but the scoundrel Don John schemes to keep them apart. Meanwhile, everyone seems to know Benedick and Beatrice are in love, but the duo tries to conceal their affection from one another behind clever banter and barbs.

Much Ado About Nothing has everything – a battle of the sexes, betrayal, jealousy, treachery, witty banter, and a happy ending!

“If you miss it you are denying yourself the Shakespearean treat of the year – you will smile every time you think about it!” said drama teacher Mathew Migliorini.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students/children, and may be purchased at www.walnuthigharts.com.

All shows at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center located at 400 N. Pierre Road in Walnut.

Brahma Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Is A Slam Dunk

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Diamond Bar High School hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a new gymnasium floor on Wednesday.

District and school officials, coaches, along with 75 student-athletes attended the special event to commemorate the renovation project.

The new gleaming hardwood flooring features a gold brahma logo at center court with purple-shaded key areas.

“This floor that we’re standing on has really been the vision of one person, coach Tony McCabe, who is currently leading the girls golf team at the 2017 CIF State Championships in Roseville,” said Principal Reuben Jones.

“He picked the colors, layout, the logos.”

Members of the girls volleyball team, currently in second round CIF playoffs, girls and boys basketball, six-time CIF State Champion badminton team, and pep squad lined the perimeter of the court during the ceremony.

The student athletes are excited about their modernized home court.

“Our new gym is brighter and more inviting,” said basketball player Kaitlyn Lee after the ceremony.

“The sleek floor will allow us to agilely sprint across the court with ease.”

The previous 32-year-old floor was scheduled to be refinished in July, but had to be completely replaced after termite damaged was discovered.

Jones thanked district staff, school personnel, and parents for their support during the massive project.

Brahma Boosters took charge of relocating weekly bingo fundraisers to Chaparral and South Pointe Middle Schools during the 10-week construction project.

After the official ribbon cutting, the winter sports teams took to the court for demonstrations, followed by impressive basketball, badminton, and volleyball shots with officials.

 

Suzanne Students Take Honors in Math Olympiad

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT-More than fifty students from Suzanne Middle School were among nearly 150,000 competitors in the 2016-2017 Math Olympiad.

Math Olympiad enables students to challenge themselves and compete against other students nationwide during five monthly contests.

Suzanne Middle School earned a Mathematical Olympiads Meritorious Award for their outstanding achievement in grades six and seven.

The top overall school winner was for seventh grader Joshua Hsu who came in first place and scored in the top 2% of the nation. He was awarded a trophy and gold pin.

Serena Huang took second place scoring in the top 10% nationally and earned a sliver pin. Tied for third place were Daniel Ji and Deven Tseng scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning sliver pins.

In addition, several more seventh and eighth grade students received recognition for their high scores. Allison Lin, Maxwell Chang, Benjamin Jin, and Jenny Shen scored in the top 20% nationally and received silver pins.

Satvik Muddana, Kawin Watkins, Kayla Hao and Kevin Yu scored in the top 25% nationally earning patches.

Ella Lin, Lewis Lui, Andrew Shi and Bryan Wang scored in the top 30% nationally.  Alice Chou, Brian Lee, Renee Chang, Lina Huang and Kevin Zeng scored in the top 40% nationally.  And Wendy Fei scored in the top 50% of the nation.

The top winners, from grade six, tying for first place grade were Chandrark Muddana, Katherine Viala and Eric Wang all scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning silver pins.

The second-place winner was Max Eibert also scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning a silver pin. And, in third place were Jayaraman Donath and Andrew Wang both scoring in the top 25% nationally and earning recognition patches.

In addition, several more sixth grade students received recognition for their high scores. David Hu, Sophia Parungao and Jason Wang scored in the top 40% nationally. Jorich Quimbo and Andrew Yick scored in the top 50% nationally.

Congratulations to Suzanne students and coach Amy Erickson!