Category Archives: Local School News
Westhoff Families Join Global Fair
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT–-Westhoff Elementary families got a chance to sample foods from around the world during a Culture Fair held Friday, October 13. The school’s Community Club hosts the annual food fest with parents, students, and teachers coming together to celebrate the diversity of the many cultures represented at the school. A total of 16 different nations were represented at decorated booths with music, artifacts, and lots of delicious, authentic food. Westhoff students proudly dressed in clothing representing their heritage marched in a parade. Many also provided entertainment during the event with nearly 1,000 in attendance. “We are so thankful to all our parents and extended family members who work so hard putting this event together,” said Principal Denise Rendon.
“It’s one of my favorite nights of the school year!” Shown: Westhoff Elementary families sample foods from around the world during the Culture Fair. Board Members Cindy Ruiz, Layla Abou-Taleb and Helen Hall, shown with students, join Westhoff Elementary School’s annual Culture Fair on Oct. 13.
Walnut High Celebrates New Tennis Courts
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT, CA— Walnut High students, teachers, staff, and district officials recently gathered during a tennis court grand reopening celebration.Over the summer, the courts were resurfaced, and playing surfaces painted a blue hue – the signature color of the U.S. Open – with grey around the outside. The project also included installation of new fencing with wind screens, nets, sound system, and lighting. Players and coaches said they were ready to kick off the new season in the upgraded facility at the August 29 ceremony. “This is going to get my kids fired up to play some even better tennis!” said head coach Lee Shiomoto, who has been a part of the program for 15 years. “It’s been exciting to see the courts get resurfaced,” said senior Lauren Ao, who said her team members now feel proud to host other schools during tournaments.“It was really run-down, and now the courts are nice and clean!” added senior Sara Santos.The boys and girls tennis programs have a winning tradition, clinching numerous all-league awards, league championships, and an undefeated season last fall. Last year, the girls team competed in the CIF finals, and doubles players Santos and Vivian Lee earned their second consecutive Hacienda League MVP honor.
Walnut Valley USD Board Honors Outstanding Student, Parent
By Kelli Gile
Walnut—The Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees recognized a standout student and parent volunteer from Vejar Elementary School during the September 20 meeting.
Fifth grader Talisa Perez received the Super Star Student Award for going above and beyond on her campus.
“Talisa is known by students, teachers, and the staff for her kindness, respect, and good citizenship,” shared interim principal Whitney Prenger.
She is a model student of the Vejar Values: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, BeSafe.
Teachers describe her as being a student leader who is kind, hard-working, and trustworthy.
She always gives 110% and encourages classmates to do their best!
Talisa has also been selected to represent the school in the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council.
Parent volunteer Kelley Cua was honored with the Partner in Education Award for generously offering her time and expertise organizing various events for the school.
Kelley has helped out in every class on campus, been a steadfast community club volunteer, and annual book fair coordinator.
During the summer, she celebrates students’ summer reading accomplishments by throwing an ice cream party when they return to school.
One Vejar teacher described Kelley as being “selfless and kind. Even as a working mother, she came every Thursday to help in the classroom.”
“She’s always been known to be reliable, kind, organized, and willing to go above and beyond!” Prenger added.
WVUSD Trustees Name New Assistant Principal at Walnut High –Kelli Gile
WVUSD
WALNUT, CA—The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Daisy Carrasco-Ramos as the new assistant principal at Walnut High School.
Bringing a decade of educational experience to her new post, Dr. Carrasco-Ramos has an extensive teaching background in the area of mathematics and a commitment to meeting the needs of all students.
She spent the last three years as assistant principal at Northview High School in Covina Valley USD where she oversaw curriculum, instruction, and guidance with a focus on increasing student achievement.
Prior to that, she was a secondary math teacher, AVID elective teacher, and activities director at Century High School in the Santa Ana USD.
Dr. Carrasco-Ramos completed a doctoral degree in educational leadership at Azusa Pacific University. She earned a master’s degree from California State University, Dominguez Hills and bachelor’s degree from University of San Francisco.
“I am so blessed to be a part of the Walnut Valley family and look forward to working with the amazing team and staff at Walnut High School,” she said.
Dr. Carrasco-Ramos resides in Anaheim with her husband, Omar and two children.
C.J. Morris Elementary Collects Supplies For Hurricane Victims
By WVUSD
WALNUT, CA—After watching news coverage of the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Harvey last week, C.J. Morris Elementary has stepped up to the plate to help victims in Texas.
The school’s leadership group quickly teamed up with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim who will be sending a truck with supplies on September 7.
Fourth grader Malia McBride and fifth grader Sofia Rodriguez recorded a message sent to parents Friday detailing a two-day collection drive of items including diapers, tooth brushes, batteries, flashlights, and cleaning supplies.
“We knew we had to do something,” shared Principal Shehzad Bhojani, following up with his own reminder message after the Labor Day weekend.
“Tomorrow is the last day to send supplies, let’s show Texas how much we care!” he said.
The group of ten student leaders collected donations in three boxes before school on Tuesday and Wednesday in front of the Walnut campus.
“Everyone was so generous, there were piles of supplies!” exclaimed McBride.
“The donations just kept coming! We had a mountain of toothpaste and toothbrushes,” said 4th grader Kailyn Park.
“The boxes were literally overflowing,” said added 5th grader Izabella Robles who said the students made several trips to the school’s Annex to empty the boxes each morning.
“I hope these donations will help them get their life back on track,” she added.
Along with the supplies, the school wanted to send something special to lift the spirits of the children in Houston.
Children in every classroom, over 500 in total, colored rainbow cards and wrote personal words of encouragement.
“I send you all my hopes, wishes, and prayers. Don’t worry everything will turn out fine because I’m sure the water will dry up,” Rodriguez penned.
“God is with you,” wrote Jasmine Torres.
The last step was attaching a bag of Skittles candy to each card that read: After every storm comes a rainbow. Sending all our love to Texas.
Teachers Carole Meade, Monica Power, and counselor Lorena Chavez advise the 4th and 5th grade leadership group.
“We are overwhelmed, truly, by our generous C.J. Morris community,” said Mead after receiving the final donations Wednesday.
“They were walking up with just bags and bags!”
WVUSD Students Experience Great American Eclipse
Celestial Celebration!
By WVUSD
WALNUT, CA–Wearing protective ISO glasses, 10-year-old Eli Gerhardt peered outdside his classroom window at just after 9 a.m. on Monday morning.
The Great American Eclipse was already happening.
“It looks like the moon took a bite out of the sun!” the Walnut Elementary fifth grader exclaimed as the moon began casting its shadow.
“This is amazing!”
Then, a few at a time, his classmates took turns viewing their first solar eclipse.
“I saw the sun and the moon was covering it a little,” said Chloe Lam.
“I’ve been excited to see the eclipse!” she added.
“The solar flares happen when the moon is covering the sun – there are orange flames,” explained classmate Giselle Quintanilla.
From Oregon to South Carolina, the total solar eclipse darkened skies across the continental U.S. for the first time in 99 years.
Although her class stayed inside due to safety concerns, Vejar kindergarten teacher Lisa Gomez made the “big event” memorable with crafts and fun lunar snacks including mini “Moon” pancakes, Sun Chips, and Sunny Delight.
Many classrooms also watched the historic event during a live NASA broadcast.
South Pointe Middle School received a generous donation of 300 eclipse glasses from Mt. San Antonio College.
“All our 6th,7th, and 8th graders will get a chance to see the moon pass in front of the sun this morning,” said science teacher Tom Woodward.
“We talked about safety on Friday. I told them never to look at the sun without the glasses,” he shared.
Students watched an astronomy video and took a 10-question quiz moments before going outside.
“Which eclipse are we seeing today, lunar or solar?” he asked the 6th graders.
“Solar!” they replied.
“Tomorrow we’ll talk about the difference,” the teacher promised.
Beginning at 10:05 a.m., each grade level, about 900 students in total, rotated outside for viewing parties.
“It looks like a crescent moon, but it’s the sun!” exclaimed sixth grader Emily Lee.
“My students were in awe,” shared Diamond Bar High physics teacher Angela Jensvold after the morning’s celestial celebration.
“Students were running to come to class in order not to miss a minute,” she said.
“We observed the sharpness of our shadows and crescent shaped images of the sun in the dappled shade of trees.”
Most of her students used ISO glasses, while some made their own eclipse viewers decorated with kittens and turtles.
“Even though I didn’t give them any extra credit!” Jensvold added.
At Walnut High, chemistry teacher Jeri Burnside bought a class set of 35 certified eclipse glasses over the summer.
“We got a chance to use our ISO glasses to see the sun at maximum coverage for our viewing area, about 67% at 10:21 a.m.,” she said.
“We saw the daylight around us fading and felt the temperature cooling as over half the solar energy was blocked.”
Burnside told students that the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. will occur in 2024, and that there is only one town, Carbondale, Illinois, that will actually be in the path of totality.
“My students will be around 22 to 23 years-old then, so hopefully they will be able to travel to see a total eclipse if they so desire!”
Back to School Time: Classes Begin in Walnut Valley
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT, CA—On Monday morning, backpacks, books, and school bus rides, signaled the end of summer vacation in Walnut Valley Unified School District.
About 14,300 students in transitional kindergarten through high school arrived on campuses to begin the 2017-2018 school year.
At Maple Hill Elementary, third grade teacher Lisa Peterson threw a Happy New School Year party for her class.
During the summer, she mailed the children invitations to the unique first-day bash, complete with instructions to bring their “enthusiasm and love for learning.”
Students found party hats, noisemakers, and colorful leis on desks when they arrived in the new classroom.
After enjoying mini muffins, apples with caramel dipping sauce, strawberries, and Capri Sun drinks, (because every party needs refreshments!), the class gathered under a giant balloon drop bag and began a traditional New Year countdown.
“10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!” they chimed in union.
Then as 100 balloons magically floated down from above, the children began blowing their horns and shouting “Happy New School Year!”
“I wanted the day to be more than just rules and procedures. When my students’ parents ask about their first day, I want them to be able to tell them that it was the best day ever!” Peterson shared.
“It was great! thought it was just going to be studying, but we had treats,” 3rd grader Luna Sun commented about the surprise party.
“It’s something I hope they will remember for years to come,” added Peterson.
“Making an ordinary day extraordinary is what it’s all about!”
At Quail Summit Elementary, teachers and staff welcomed students with high-fives and hugs as they paraded onto the Diamond Bar campus.
“The energy coming into Quail Summit was felt by both staff and students as they started the new school year,” said new Principal Frances Weissenberger.
“What a joyful way to welcome our students and families!” added second grade teacher Kathy McLean.
At Collegewood Elementary in Walnut, teacher Kim Horn helped her students begin making lasting connections.
During a Just Like Me activity, each 4th grader received a small tub of Playdoh with instructions to create something they like to do.
The youngsters molded beach scenes, ice cream cones, soccer balls, motorcycles, and more.
As students took turns sharing their interests, classmates who liked to do the same things stood up and said “just like me!”
“The goal of the project is to start building community so that the kids understand that they have lots in common with their classmates,” Horn said.
“It is also fun and a way to lower the kid’s stress on the first day of school!”
Chaparral Middle School 29-year veteran-educator Gary Imai plans to engage his social studies classes by offering numerous hands-on manipulatives.
“It makes the learning more interesting than just reading from a textbook,” he offered.
Imai, who taught 7th graders for over a decade, will be working with 6th grade students again this year.
He’ll kick off with Ancient History lessons and students will soon be digging through sand to hunt for “fossils.”
During the summer, Imai found some old teaching treasures while rummaging through his attic.
“I thought, I can still use these because history doesn’t change!” he quipped.
Over 50 new educators were hired for the new school year, including Walnut High School environmental science teacher Alyssia Infante.
“It was exciting and a lot of fun meeting my students and working with the amazing staff on campus,” she offered.
Infante, the daughter of a Walnut Valley educator, chose to pursue teaching so she could share her passion for science with students.
Her most memorable moment on the first day was arriving on campus and being greeted by the teens she worked with as a student teacher.
“They all wished me a good luck and were eager to look at my classroom and tell me about their summer!” she said.
“I am looking forward to a wonderful first year!”
Jonathon Chung, a new 7th grade Language Arts teacher at Chaparral, also stepped in front of his first class on Monday.
“I was too used to substitute teaching and informing the students that I would be their teacher for the day. To get up there and tell them I would be their teacher for the rest of the semester was kind of a, ‘No duh,’ moment for a lot of them,” he said.
Chung hails from a family of Walnut Valley educators and said he has always taken great pride in the work they have done.
He also applauds the entire Chaparral staff for “popping in” to offer their help while he was setting up his classroom.
“It is a very friendly and caring staff and I am fortunate to be able to work at this wonderful campus.”
After a morning recess at Collegewood Elementary, Jayne Knight’s kindergartners were sitting crisscross applesauce-style on the carpet as she delivered rules for being good listeners.
The wiggly youngsters immediately began raising their hands to ask some pressing first day questions.
“Can I get a drink of water?” “Do we have to take a nap after lunch?” “Do we have to come back tomorrow?”
Yes, and just 179 days to go. Welcome back and have a wonderful school year!
Mt. Sac Olympic Trials: $40 Million For Local Communities
Photo courtesy: Google Images
By Michael Armijo
Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College’s new incoming stadium was chosen for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, a move that could potentially bring in over $40 million in revenue for the area.
“The Olympic Trials in Eugene Oregon has historically brought in around $38 million dollars to their local economy for the 9 day period that the trials were held during 2012,” said Doug Todd, Director of Track and Cross Country for Mt. Sac. “We haven’t seen the projections for 2016 as of yet, but it should top over $40 million.”
Todd also noted that the national and international attention this event will bring to the city of Walnut and immediate surrounding cities, the San Gabriel Valley, the Inland Empire, and even the Los Angeles cities will benefit as well. “We hope for everyone to get on board and benefit from such a historic event.”
“As a long time resident of the City of Walnut, I was pleased to hear that Walnut will be hosting the upcoming US Olympic Trials,” said Walnut councilman Bob Pacheco. “It’s a honor and privilege to be selected. I look forward to working with Mt SAC to assure that the athletes receive a warm welcome so they may enjoy the beauty and resources of our community.
“We honored to be chosen over such prestigious institutions,” said Mt. Sac Board Member, David Hall in a phone interview Thursday morning. “Our long heritage, very successful trials in past years, the many records set at the college, and the new state of the art facility, are great factors for their choice.”
The USA Olympic Trials is the National Championship meet that is held every year, but in an Olympic Year, the National Championships become the meet where the US Olympic Committee chooses who will represent the United States in the Olympic Games in Tokyo. It’s a wonderful, high stakes competition where the top three make the team and number 4 and below do not. There is no appeal process, no automatic entry process for past performances, and no special dispensation for injury or illness. On a certain day and a certain time in June of 2020 right here at Mt. SAC the best athletes in the country will run, jump or throw for the right to represent us in Tokyo, Japan. It’s a real testimony to competition bringing out the best and, sadly, sometimes the worst in people.
The selection process wasn’t an easy one either. It started with the submission of a preliminary proposal. Five colleges or Organizations did that. After the initial submission the field was narrowed to three “finalists”. Mt. SAC, along with the University of Oregon and California State University, Sacramento were each scheduled for a site visit and after the site visit had the opportunity to submit a final proposal. The final step was the opportunity to state our case at USATF’s Board of Directors meeting in Sacramento at this year’s National Championships.
“We were given 15 minutes to summarize our proposal and then to be ready for questions from the board,” added Todd. “Before that final presentation we were sent a list of things from our proposal that the board wanted clarification on. We needed to discuss those items within our 15 minute presentation.”
Mt. Sac’s Hilmer Lodge Stadium is no stranger to such an event as the women’s Olympic trials were held there in 1968. Twenty world records have been set at Hilmer Lodge Stadium, the annual site for the annual Mt. Sac Relays for the last 60 years. The stadium is under renovations and is scheduled to reopen in 2019 with an expanded seating capacity of 21,000 capacity. The trials, scheduled for Jun 19-28, 2020, will select US track and field delegation for the Tokyo Games.
“I’m very proud of the team that helped bring this to fruition, and excited by the challenge” said Todd to OurWeeklyNews.com. “We are excited by the challenge and anxious to finalize the last few details for the organization to get the planning started.” Todd is the “meet manager” and Bob Seagrem, a former Olympic Gold Medalist, will be the chairperson of the committee.
The last three U.S. Olympic track and field trials were held at Hayward Stadium in Eugene, Ore., the city known as Track Town for its pervasive running culture. The 2000 and 2004 trials were held at Hornet Stadium in Sacramento. Attendance was robust in both cities and both made bids for the 2020 trials. Los Angeles, once the home of many professional track and field meets, hasn’t supported the sport at the pro level in recent years, leaving the Mt. SAC Relays the area’s most prestigious competition, according to the LA Times.
“Our team is cohesive and our historical successes are just many factors Mt. Sac is a great choice for this event,” David Hall concluded. “We are looking forward to another successful event.”
Lots of work and excitement went into the making of this event as an Olympic site, which is for the first time in Southern California since 1984 when the games were held at the Coliseum. The Walnut stadium was chosen in an 11-2 vote by the USA Track and Field’s board of directors for the Mt. SAC proposal.
Mt. Sac is also rebuilding several areas of Hilmer stadium and the plans are completed and being executed. “I couldn’t be happier with the design and the amenities built into the structure. It’s going to be wonderful facility, one that will be worthy of the outstanding, world’s best athletes that will come here to compete,” added Todd. He also noted they are, based on conversations with the people on campus whose job it is to build this stadium, they’ve had been a few bumps in the road but abelieve that’s to be expected in any type of construction project large or small.
“You know we have an ‘Olympic Caliber’ crew of people working on this thing who not only understand every aspect of all that we are attempting to do but who also have an amazing track record, no pun intended, of bringing projects of this scope to completion on time,” added Todd. “This entire goal of bringing the trials to Mt. SAC is a very big TEAM effort. Jokingly I’ve told them a number of times that “if you build it they will come”. We’ve won the bid, the Trials are coming so now we just need to finish the build. I’m confident our team will build it and complete it on time and I’d like to think they are equally confident that once completed we will host one heck off a great event.
Everyone across the San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire is very much on board and appreciative of Mt. Sac’s efforts and the leadership of the city as the build takes place.
“Mt SAC is an important economic engine for Southern California. Hosting the 2020 Olympic pre-trials will expose the world to Mt SAC’s outstanding amenities and the vast resources it provides within the Greater Los Angeles Area and Southern California,” said Carolyn Anderson, long time advocate and Public Sector Solutions Manager for Waste Management Southern California.
WVUSD Staff Kicks Off 2017-2018 School Year
WVUSD
WALNUT, CA—As Walnut Valley USD students get ready to head back to class next week after summer break, educators have been busy gearing up for the new school year.
On Wednesday, nearly 1,000 teachers, classified personnel, and district leaders gathered during a Welcome Back celebration held at Calvary Chapel in Diamond Bar.
The 14th annual kick-off rally featured recognitions of over 200 long-service employees, Teachers of the Year, Cornerstone Award winners, and keynote message by Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
“We’re looking forward to a phenomenal school year!” Dr. Taylor said to the assembled WVUSD employees.
“There’s no better environment to get us fired up for the new school year than being in this building with you.”
“This year’s All Means All slogan is a reminder of what we do every day,” Dr. Taylor added.
“It’s about differentiating so that all kids have the tools to be successful at each stage of their education, being intentional and bringing in systems of health and well-being into a child’s education, and upholding high standards for all kids.”
As staffers from all 15 schools and departments mingled and visited during the outdoor continental breakfast, they enjoyed music provided by the Diamond Bar High commercial music rock band under the direction of Steve Acciani and Daryl Hernandez.
Inside the venue, the program began with pep music provided by 100 members of the Walnut High band under the direction of Corey Wicks and Katie Takahashi.
Walnut High senior Julia Provencio performed the national anthem after boy scout troop #777 led the opening flag ceremony.
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Matthew Witmer and Administrative Director Dr. Sergio Canal hosted the program that included over 50 raffle prizes provided by local businesses.
Bill Foley, the District Teacher of the Year and Mike Bromberg, the Classified Employee of the Year, took a few moments to address their peer.
“It’s amazing to be up here today!” said Foley, a digital photography teacher at Diamond Bar High School.
The 34-year veteran educator said he was advised in college to find a career that he was passionate about, and to know it well.
By all accounts, he’s done just that.
“What I really care about the most when I’m teaching is my students and their work,” he said proudly showing a website featuring student photography.
When Foley asked his charges if they thought he deserved the Teacher of the Year award, they confirmed his passion and dedication to serving all students.
“One student told me that I’m the most pure-hearted teacher he’d ever had,” the humble teacher shared
“None of us do this job alone. Every time you smile or say something positive to a teacher, it builds them up. I treat my fellow teachers the way that I want to be treated.
“It takes a whole district to raise a Teacher of the Year!” he added.
“I’ve worked in all our schools and have seen firsthand how important classified employees are to everyone,” said Bromberg, a former carpenter and electrician, who currently serves as the operations manager at Diamond Bar High School
“We all work as a team in Walnut Valley and we want to give the best customer service that we can.”
“In my opinion, we are the heartbeat of the school district!”
Bromberg, a WVUSD alumnus, recalled growing up always taking a keen interest when maintenance crews arrived at his school.
The men in blue would often have to remind him to “take a step back” when he got too close to the equipment
And now, Bromberg feels like he’s come full circle.
“I’m dedicated to providing a great school environment for the next generation, just as it was provided for me!”
DB School Uses Global Connection
By Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar –Chaparral Middle School 8th grader Izzy Reedy and a dozen classmates learned about culture, education, weather, and even sports in Tanzania this year. But, it wasn’t by opening a textbook or conducting research on a computer.
The Diamond Bar students gained knowledge through a global connection with the Gyekrum Arusha Secondary School, located over 8,500 miles away in East Africa. Education specialist Kimberly Ramos formed the partnership with the class through the World Education Connection program. Students and teachers got to know each other by communicating back and forth using email and Google Hangout.
“They would ask lots of questions and post photos,” Ramos said about the 21st century-learning technology. “Anything I received from the teacher, I would post on Google Classroom to share with my kids.”
Ramos said her students embraced the program and were amazed with how many similarities they had with their new friends. “The kids loved seeing each other. And the things we learned this year have had more meaning because we were able to connect with the other half of the ‘Kilimanjaro Squad’ on a personal level.”
The global teams shared their thoughts on the power of connection during an inaugural World Education Day event. “Asante Sana!” the students exclaimed in Swahili while waving to one another during the live global broadcast.
“We got to experience the way they live and learn,” Brant said. “I wouldn’t have changed a thing about this experience!” Students said they also gained appreciation for their own lives after seeing the East
African partner school squeeze 80 students inside a class with dirt floors and dilapidated furniture. “It showed me to be grateful for what I have, and to respect elders and family,” Reedy said.
Diamond Bar Oil Recycling
Courtesy City of Diamond Bar
Diamond Bar –The City has kicked off its Oil Recycling Campaign by alerting residents of the 3 easy disposal methods for residents.
With curbside, door pickup and local drop off services, the campaign aims to raise awareness by way of public outreach efforts, messages in a variety of media, and distribution of free oil recycling kits.
Free Oil Recycling Kits
Funded with a grant from CalRecycle, the free oil recycling kits consist of a funnel, zip-lock bag, two shop towels, loop filter wrench, and drain pan/storage container that holds 15 quarts (the equivalent amount of three oil changes).
The kits will be distributed to Diamond Bar residents and include a used oil drain container, a funnel, shop rags, and filterdisposal bags. Kits are available at city hall, located at 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.
Two Free & Convenient Disposal Methods
Once the container is filled, residents should transfer the used oil into a clean plastic container with lid such as a milk jug, and dispose of it through one of the following two free methods:
Scheduling a pickup with waste hauler:
- Single Family residents contact Waste Management – curbside (800.266.7551)
- Condos, Apartments, and Commercial residents contact Valley Vista Services – (800.442.6454)
Dropping off at a State-certified collection center*:
- AutoZone – 303 S Diamond Bar Boulevard (909.396.4682)
- Firestone Store – 1150 S Grand Avenue (909.861.4140)
- Jiffy Lube – 2845 S Diamond Bar Boulevard (909.869.7273)
*Calling the centers before taking oil and filters is recommended.
Did you know?
- Motor oil doesn’t wear out, it just gets dirty; it can be cleaned of contaminants and recycled indefinitely.
- Oil filters contain steel, a valuable nonrenewable resource, and can be crushed and recycled into other products.
- No other substances should ever be allowed to mix with used oil because contamination by other chemicals may mean the used oil cannot be recycled.
- Motor oil that washes into storm drains can create a film on the surface of waterways, depriving aquatic life of necessary sunlight and oxygen.
MORE INFO:
“RECYCLING MADE EASY – Used Oil & Used Oil Filter” campaign – Contact the City’s Public Information Office at 909.839.7055.
Registration for Mt. SAC Fall Classes Begins July 12
Staff Reports
Walnut–– Online registration for Mt. SAC’s fall semester credit classes begins July 12. Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 28.
All credit students must register for classes online through the My Mt. SAC Portal at my.mtsac.edu. New students must submit an admission application online. For students who do not have computer access, computers and assistance are available in the Student Services Center during business hours. The Admissions Office is open now Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The enrollment fee is $46 per unit for California residents, and all fees are due upon registration.
For more registration information, call the Mt. SAC Admissions & Records Office at (909) 274-4415, or visit http://www.mtsac.edu.
Suzanne Middle School Robotics Team Takes First Place
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT, CA—Suzanne Middle School’s Wolf Corp robotics team has capped off a successful year by taking the top award during the 2017 Razorback International Competition.
Wolf Corp won the 1st place Overall Core Values Award at the tournament held at the University of Arkansas last month.
During the competition, the robot scored over 200 points and the K-911 device students invented to protect police dogs from overheating in cars impressed judges.
Wolf Corp also surprised the panel by participating in 40 outreach events including the LA Fair, OC Fair, and Walnut Family Science Night as well as donating robot kits to the Skyhook Foundation and children in Ghana.
The Overall Core Values Award is given to the team that best embodies creative design and programing of the robot, as well as having an exceptional project, outstanding teamwork, and a team highly dedicated to sharing their experiences with the community.
The international contest included 68 top-performing teams from around the world including Japan, Brazil, Israel, Slovenia, Canada, Korea, Chile, Spain, and Australia.
The Suzanne team received an invitation to represent the Los Angeles Region after winning the 1st place Project Research Award during the Championship Tournament in December
The Wolf Corp pack includes students Kawin Watkins, Gordon Lau, Nathan Tan, Jason Wang, Brian Feng, Conor Fox, Christian Langarica, Katherine Viola, Alina Chang, and Nathan Chang.
The team is overseen by parents Scott and Lek Watkins and teacher advisor Vicky Silcock.
Wolf Corp received numerous awards in the past three years including Moonbots Phase I Winner-Google Lunar XPrize, and 1st Place Most Engaged Robotics Team from LEGO Education. Wolf Corp is also a 3- time Southern California FLL Cup Champion at Legoland.
Members strive to be good role models and inspire others students to get involved in Robotics and STEM Education.
The team will continue building robots and giving back to communities. For more information, visit http://WolfCorpRobotics.weebly.com.
HS Stars Recognized
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD
WALNUT, CA– Outstanding students and community members from local high schools received special tributes during this month’s Board Meeting.
Walnut High senior Sarah Kim was honored with the Super Star Senior Award.
“Sarah has done a lot of great things in her four years at our school,” said Principal Brandon Dade.
She served as ASB president, class president all four years, and peer counselor for two years.
“Sarah put on the best prom, turned the senior breakfast into a senior dinner, and has provided Walnut High seniors a wonderful experience they will never forget,” said class advisor Drew Johannson.
In addition, the senior class contributed $10,000 to help renovate the gymnasium flooring.
Sarah is empathetic and is driven to help students through the school’s peer counseling program
She’s given her time and energy to help students deal with sensitive topics and does all this with compassion and love that lifts up her fellow students in a way that’s life-changing, Johannson said.
“In the nearly 40 years I’ve been at Walnut High, I honestly can say that no student has done more for our school than Sarah Kim. Being able to work with her last four years has been an honor!”
Sarah will attend Stanford University in the fall.
Parent volunteer Rhonda Melton received the Partner in Education Award.
Rhonda has found a way to offer support for staff and students within the large and competitive high school.
“She has devoted hours of her time helping raise money that can be directly used to support students’ social-emotional needs on campus.”
Walnut High’s Peer Counseling held over 450 personal appointments this year. These students consistently work out-of-the spotlight and serve without the recognition of support.
“Rhonda felt this group would benefit from additional support and through her dedication has truly made a difference,” Dade said.
She helped organize two e-waste recycling events this year that supported the Peer Counseling group and the school. She also participates in the Parent Think Tank.
“Rhonda spends a lot of time on our campus and we are very appreciative!” Dade said.
Other local high school stars recognized include Junior Zainia Siyed was recognized with the Super Star Student Award for Diamond Bar High.
Zainia is committed to developing STEM for girls and last year launched a FemSTEM robotics scholarship program for 10-14 years-olds.
The Brahma Tech Academy president began teaching robotics as a freshman.
The teen worked eight hours per week developing and providing instruction to her team members.
“And it’s no surprise they took 1st place in a FIRST Lego League competition!” said Principal Reuben Jones.
Additionally, Zainia was a keynote speaker during the recent FIRST Robotics World Championships in Texas.
This month, she will be filmed by Disney on the topic of girls in STEM, which is typically a male-dominated field.
Zainia has also been selected for a Boeing internship and has applied for a TED Talk in London.
Sarbani Sharma, president of one of the school’s Magnificent 7 groups, received the Partner in Education Award.
Sarbani currently heads up the South Asian Parent Association (SAPA) and has been active in numerous activities that support Diamond Bar High.
The group’s signature event, Evening of Colors, is a scholarship fundraiser featuring student performances, music, and dancing.
“It’s truly a fantastic night that celebrates diversity at Diamond Bar,” Jones said.
Sarbani recently led a fundraising campaign to help the school’s robotics team, Sprocket, compete at the FIRST Robotics World Championships.
She also partnered with the Wellness Center to provide a free stress-management workshop for students.
Shown:
Diamond Bar High junior Zainia Siyed was recognized with the Super Star Student Award. (0312)
Board President Dr. Tony Torng presents DBHS parent volunteer Sarbani Sharma the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Reuben Jones. (0319)
Board President Dr. Tony Torng presents DBHS parent volunteer Sarbani Sharma the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Reuben Jones. (0322)
Walnut High senior Sarah Kim is honored as a Super Star Student. Shown with Board President Dr. Tony Torng. (0334)
Walnut High senior Sarah Kim is honored as a Super Star Student. Shown with Principal Brandon Dade, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, Assistant Principal Petria Gonzales, advisor Drew Johannson, and family members. (0338)
Walnut High parent volunteer Rhonda Melton receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Board President Dr. Tony Torng. (0344)
Walnut High parent volunteer Rhonda Melton receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Brandon Dade, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, Cecilia Yeh, Clark Rucker, and family members. (0347)
Mustang Evan Sentoso Named CIF Scholar Athlete
By Kelli GIle
WALNUT, CA–Walnut High senior Evan Sentoso has been selected as a 2017 CIF Scholar-Athlete of the Year.
The scholarship award identifies student-athletes who excel in the classroom, athletics, and are strong contributors to their schools and communities.
Sentoso is a two-sport athlete participating in cross country and track and field. His commitment to his studies earned him class valedictorian status, AP Scholar with honors as well as Junior Honor Guard accolades.
The teen is also involved at Walnut High as a member of the Class of 2017 Cabinet, Future Business Leaders of America, and Hip Hop Club. He will be attending UCLA next year.
“Evan is invested in making his high school and community a better place for those who are less fortunate,” said GLC Sonia Nunez.
Athletic Director Jerry Person adds, “Evan is the true definition of scholar-athlete. He could not have raised himself to this level without strong character, hard work, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, fun and persistence.”
This year’s two winners, Sentoso – Southern Section and Erica Barrett – San Diego Section, were selected from a pool of 263 candidates representing 1,582 CIF member schools statewide.
The State Capitol and Senate and Assembly Floors will honor the CIF Scholar Athletes on Thursday, May 25 in Sacramento.
In addition, they will receive a $5,000 scholarship award.
Adversities in and out of school have continually tested the depth of my character,” states Sentoso.
“However, by developing a resilient mindset to bounce back from these hardships, I have accomplished more than I could ever imagine.”
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award.”
Run, Teach, Eat, Sleep, Repeat
Walnut High educator Jerry Knox breaks 3 world records in 2017
By WVUSD
WALNUT, CA—To say that Walnut High teacher and alumnus Jerry Knox is passionate about running might be an understatement.
He laces up his running shoes five days a week, clocking five-to-eight miles a day, and 15 miles every Saturday.
Knox usually runs a marathon each month, and in the past 11 years has crossed the finish line over 80 times.
Every medal is displayed in his classroom and the AP geography and cross country coach has been known to wear the event t-shirt to school on Mondays following a race.
In 2009, the 22-year veteran educator decided to up the ante and go for a world record “just to make it interesting.”
Knox said he had always liked the Guinness Book of World Records as a kid.
When his son Alex was 8, he announced “Dad, you can beat that” after reading that someone held the world record for dribbling a basketball during a marathon.
And he did. Knox won his first world record in 3 hours, 42 minutes, 20 seconds. That record was beat in 2011.
Before going for another world record, Knox decided to focus on running a marathon in under three hours.
He accomplished that goal in 2015 at the Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach with a time of 2:59:20.
That same year, he won back the basketball marathon title with a time of 3:11:16, which was bested in 2016 by a runner from Estonia.
“It’s about the running, the basketballs are just a gimmick,” Knox said.
He also learned in order to be included in the actual Guinness Book, not just the website, he had to participate in the London marathon with official representatives.
In April 2015, he crossed the Atlantic and became the fastest man to dribble not one, but TWO basketballs while running the 26.2-mile course.
He captured that title in 4 hours, 10 minutes, 44 seconds.
“It was hard keeping the concentration, especially at the end of the race,” he said.
Cobblestone roads, 38,000 racers, drums, disc jockeys, a dark tunnel, coupled with fatigue quelled the distance runner during the last miles.
“I thought, is this thing going to end?” Knox commented.
“It was like an obstacle course!”
Some of the London racers cheered as he attempted the challenging world record, while others were irritated with the noisy bouncing basketballs.
“They’d trained hard and you’ve got this guy next to them passing them with a clank-clank!”
Knox has broken three additional world records in 2017: running the fastest marathon while jumping rope with a time of 4:20:31 on February 19 and the fastest marathon wearing German lederhosen at the Los Angeles Marathon on March 19.
“I thought it would be funny and an excuse to buy some!” he said about going for the quirky record.
Most recently, he crossed the finish line wearing a graduation cap and gown during the OC Marathon on May 8.
For the first time in history, Guinness sent a team to Los Angeles to verify world records.
No need for witnesses, photos, videos, or coordinating with the race director, Knox said.
“It’s so much easier. You say you’re going to do it, they watch you, and you’re done.”
The athlete is currently prepping for his sixth 100-mile race which will take about 22 hours to complete.
Next fall he’d like to break the record for skipping during a marathon.
“I think it would be a hard one to beat, you use different muscles.”
Knox doesn’t actively recruit students to join his healthy lifestyle, he prefers to quietly lead by example.
Snacks of fresh fruit and vegetables and a “Want to get fit? Join cross country – no experience necessary” recruiting flyer can be seen near his desk.
“Sometimes it’s best not to be a nag and I know it’s expensive to run marathons,” he said.
The coach also joins the cross-country team for their daily training runs.
“It’s better when he’s out on the course with us,” said sophomore Jason Yen.
“And he understands our pain.”
Knox didn’t begin running marathons until he was 36 years old, thinking distance running was only for “Olympians.”
It all began when fellow teacher So Hee Tan mentioned that she had just completed one.
“If she can do it, so can I,” he said.
The first step was joining a running club and beginning training, but the first marathons didn’t go as he had hoped.
Knox walked the final four miles during his first two attempts.
On his third try, he was able to jog the entire way and was “hooked.”
Last year, his wife Carolyn Campbell, a Vejar Elementary transitional kindergarten teacher, joined him on the course, completing her first marathon in November.
In recent years, he has also transitioned to eating more organic food.
“Every year I seemed to click off something different,” he said about first giving up ground beef, then fast food, fried food, and soda. He recently went vegan.
“So, I’ll comment to my students on that and some of my failures. I still really miss pizza!”
Yen says his marathon-running teacher is a setting a good example for fellow students.
“He has a goal and achieves it by practicing and not giving up.”
Chaparral Students Make Global Connections
Photo courtesy: WVUSD
By WVUSD
DIAMOND BAR, CA—Chaparral Middle School 8th grader Izzy Reedy and a dozen classmates learned about culture, education, weather, and even sports in Tanzania this year.
But, it wasn’t by opening a textbook or conducting research on a computer.
The Diamond Bar students gained knowledge through a global connection with the Gyekrum Arusha Secondary School, located over 8,500 miles away in East Africa.
Education specialist Kimberly Ramos formed the partnership with teacher Zaituni Njovu and her students through the World Education Connection program.
The students and teachers got to know each other by communicating back and forth using email and Google Hangout.
“They would ask lots of questions and post photos,” Ramos said about the 21st century-learning technology.
“Anything I received from the teacher, I would post on Google Classroom to share with my kids.”
Ramos said her students embraced the program and were amazed with how many similarities they had with their new friends.
“The kids loved seeing each other. And the things we learned this year have had more meaning because we were able to connect with the other half of the ‘Kilimanjaro Squad’ on a personal level.”
The relationship deepened when students recently held a campus clean-up project to provide supplies to the school in Karatu Urusha.
On May 10, global teams shared their thoughts of the power of connection during an inaugural World Education Day event.
Classmates Julia Brandt, Alex Ginez, and Reedy arrived before the 7:45 a.m. opening bell, eager to participate in the live global broadcast.
“Asante Sana!” the students exclaimed in Swahili while waving to one another.
“We got to experience the way they live and learn,” Brant said. “I wouldn’t have changed a thing about this experience!”
“I hope we can stay connected with the kids in Tanzania.”
“The best thing has been the sharing,” Ginez offered.
“We talked about our siblings, our pets, and hobbies. We have a lot in common.”
Students said they also gained appreciation for their own lives after seeing the East African partner school squeeze 80 students inside a class with dirt floors and dilapidated furniture.
“It showed me to be grateful for what I have, and to respect elders and family,” Reedy said.
Walnut Valley Students Honored At Lunch With The Principal Event
Photo courtesy: WVUSD
By WVUSD
WALNUT, CA—Nine students were treated to a sizzling reward for achieving their personal best during the 19th annual Benihana Lunch with the Principal on Tuesday.
Each of the nine elementary schools in the Walnut Valley Unified School District chose a hard-working student to celebrate during the special lunchtime adventure held at the City of Industry restaurant.
Congratulations to this year’s fifth grade honorees: Aayati Sangal– Castle Rock, DJ Ruffin – Cyrus J. Morris, Estrella Gallegos – Collegewood, Alicia Agalos – Evergreen, Alice Shen – Quail Summit, Leah Owens – Maple Hill, Brianna Velez – Vejar, Sunny Morales – Walnut Elementary, and Emily Santos – Westhoff.
Personal chefs entertained audiences while creating flaming onion ring volcanos, drizzling eggs into a cartoon characters, and flipping shrimp tails in stovepipe hats.
After enjoying the teppan-style meal, principals took turns sharing success stories about their students.
“Not only has Emily achieved academic excellence, she perseveres through hard times, she’s a fabulous friend, and always follows the Golden Rule,” said Westhoff Elementary Principal Denise Rendon.
“Estrella is very hard-working, resilient, and shows genuine compassion to classmates,” said Collegewood Elementary Principal Mary Wendland.
Evergreen Elementary Principal Carolyn Wills shared that her honoree was selected for demonstrating attributes from the school’s the Keys to Success character education program.
“Alicia shows perseverance and kindness to everyone and is sure to be very successful!”
Students received certificates, Benihana chef’s hats, and keepsake photos.
Mustang Signing Day
Walnut High athletes make college commitments official
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT, CA—Walnut High School celebrated seven elite athletes who have received scholarships to play college sports during a lunchtime ceremony on Wednesday.
Bella Amezcua – soccer, Jacob Garcia, Royce Labuguen, Frankie Zamarripa, and Brandon Godoy – baseball, Malia Avila – track, and Mia Dow – wrestling, signed national letters of intent as families and friends cheered them on.
“It’s exciting! Today makes all the years of hard work pay off,” said defender Bella Amezcua who committed to play soccer at Cal State University, Dominquez Hills.
Four varsity baseball teammates committed to continue playing their sport at the collegiate level during the May 4 event.
“It felt really good signing these papers today!” said pitcher Royce Labuguen who will attend Cal State University, Dominguez hills.
Labuguen said “it felt like home” when he recently toured the campus and met with the coaching staff.
“They’re really nice and welcoming.”
“This is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. It’s a dream come true,” said first baseman Frankie Zamarripa who will attend Clarke University in Dubuque Iowa.
Zamarripa said he’s been playing since he was about seven-years-old.
“Swinging the bat and throwing the ball has always been fun for me!”
Pitcher and outfielder Jacob Garcia will attend Cal State University, Stanislaus and third-baseman Brandon Godoy will attend Cal Poly University, Pomona.
Mia Dow, the most decorated wrestler at Walnut High, took 4th place during the CIF State Championships in February. She will be playing her sport at MacMurray College in Jackson, Illinois next year.
Track and field sprinter Malia Avila committed to attend Concordia University.
“This school had everything I was looking for!” said the star athlete who competed in the 300-meter hurdles at CIF State Championships.
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