Tag Archives: Diamond Bar High School

Brahma Science Bowl Team Competes In DC

By Kelli Gile   

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High took 3rd-place awards in their division at the 2016 National Science Bowl. Shown: Advisors Jose Marquez and Latitia Thomas, with students Brandon Hung, Jeff Chow, Miriam Sun, Leslie Sim, and Ben Chen.

Diamond Bar High School Jose Marquez, coach, Latitia Thomas, assistant coach, Brandon Hung, Jeff Chow, Miriam Sun, Ben Chen and Leslie Sim of Diamond Bear, CA, pose for a team photo during the 2016 National Science Bowl competition, Thursday, April 28, 2016, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jack Dempsey, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science)

Diamond Bar—A stellar group of Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) students took 3rd place in their division during the 2016 National Science Bowl held this month in Washington, D.C.

DBHS team members Miriam Sun, Jeff Chow, Leslie Sim, Ben Chen, and Brandon Hung qualified for nationals after winning the regional competition in February.

The academic competition tests students’ knowledge in all areas of science and mathematics, with more than 14,000 students from across the country participating in the bowl each year.

“Our students played brilliantly, showing strong competitive spirit, and sportsmanship,” said science teacher Jose Marquez, who coaches the team with math teacher Latitia Thomas.

Teams face off in a fast-paced format as they answer questions about biology, chemistry, Earth science, physics, energy, and math.

After getting off to a slow start and losing the first two rounds, the Diamond Bar students regrouped and won six consecutive rounds by impressive margins.

In the exciting last round, while down 14 points, DBHS buzzed in and answered the final question, along with a bonus question, earning the needed points to end the game in a tie.

“I have never been more proud to be a Brahma!” said Marquez, adding that DBHS, one of the largest public schools at the competition, was just one point away from moving on to the next round. “Our students achieved academic success while competing with class and poise. They left an indelible mark at the event.”

The National Science Bowl was created in 1991 to encourage students to excel in math and science and pursue careers in those fields. The two seniors on the DBHS team are doing just that.

Next year, Miriam Sun will study biology at Caltech, while Jeff Chow plans to focus on bioengineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

“Attending the National Science Bowl with some of Diamond Bar’s best and brightest was definitely a highlight from high school!” Chow said.

 

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High School senior Tony DiDonato signed to play soccer at California State University, San Bernardino.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School senior Tony DiDonato signed to play soccer at California State University, San Bernardino.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar—Three talented Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) athletes have been recruited to play sports in college.

Senior Tony DiDonato, 17, will continue his successful run on the soccer field next year at California State University, San Bernardino.

“I’m happy and can’t wait to join the program!” he said during a scholarship signing celebration last month.

A Brahma team member all four years, DiDonato most recently captained the league championship team with one of the best records in school history.

Along with being a leader, DiDonato is also known for the versatility of being able to handle every offensive and defensive position.

“When I first started playing, I was always a forward, then on club I began playing on defense,” he explained.

DiDonato began playing indoor soccer at four-years-old in Diamond Bar, graduated to AYSO, and has played on Legends for the past seven years.

“I’ve been wanting to play college soccer since I was 10-years-old; it’s a dream!”  he said.

He has an interest in pursuing criminal justice and business in college, and maybe one day going into law. “My mom’s a lawyer; it might just fit in with the family name!”

But for now, you can bet that being on the soccer field is Tony DiDonato’s favorite place to be.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Centerfielder Keola Viloria received a scholarship to play baseball at University of Antelope Valley.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Centerfielder Keola Viloria received a scholarship to play baseball at University of Antelope Valley.

“There’s such a rush of adrenaline and emotion, especially when you play with teammates that you love. There’s nothing else like it!

 

 

Centerfielder Keola Viloria, 18, received a scholarship to play at University of Antelope Valley.

Viloria played Brahma baseball all four years, securing his first varsity start during sophomore year.

He picked up a baseball glove before starting kindergarten, and never put it down.

“When I’m out there (on the field) all worries just go away. It’s my getaway zone!” he commented.

“I love baseball! Every single team I’m on those guys become my brothers!”

Safety Connor Donohue, 17, will play football as a preferred walk-on at Colorado State Un

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High School senior Connor Donohue has committed to play football at Colorado State University.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School senior Connor Donohue has committed to play football at Colorado State University.

iversity.

 

“I’m really excited to be on the team,” said Donohue, who goes off to camp to begin training on June 13, which just happens to be his birthday.

Donohue didn’t begin playing football until his freshman year because before that he was focusing on soccer.

But it was a foregone conclusion that someday, he would end up picking up a pigskin.

“My dad was a big Cowboys fan and we always watched football,” he said. “So, I always knew I was going to play!”

He made the varsity team his sophomore year.

Donahue plans to major in business administration or mechanical engineering.

 

 

 

 

DBHS Announces New Volleyball Coach

Staff Reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

7 DBHS Seniors Receive National Merit Scholarships

By Kelli Gile

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Theatre Students Bring Musical And Literary Classic To DBHS Stage

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR-Diamond Bar High School’s Theatre Department will present a production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Les Misérables, based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same title. Les Misérables is a story of justice and redemption in a time of social and political revolution. DBHS’ production will feature students from the Diamond Bar and Walnut area who auditioned for the children’s roles in the piece.

“We wanted to extend the great learning experience that comprises the production of our Spring Musical to younger children in our district. They are learning not just acting, music and vocal technique, but they are also having a great time learning about French history and the events that the story is based on,” said director Beatrice Casagran. “I am amazed at the depth of insights and questions that are being raised by some of our youngest cast members during our character preparation discussions.  It just highlights that theatre is a great way to for young people to access literature,” she added.

DBHS theatre productions are student-run shows, with students involved in every aspect from publicity to production management.  In fact, the ambitious, Gothic inspired set is being built by DBHS Stagecraft students.

Set in 19th-century France, Les Misérables follows the life of Jean Valjean, a man released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment. The kind act of a stranger gives Valjean resolve to turn his life around.  Hoping to find a new beginning, he breaks his parole, initiating a life-long struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police Inspector Javert. Set during the years around the Paris student uprising of 1832, Les Misérables paints a striking portrait of the dark world within the City of Light, and is a sweeping history of a turbulent age through an unforgettable cast of characters.

Shows are April 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, & 30 at 7:00 p.m. in the school theatre located at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for students. Proceeds go directly to help fund the DBHS Theatre Arts Program. Tickets are available online at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.

Diamond Bar High Water Polo Coach Dies After Practice

Photo courtesy of GoFundMe.com/AlanRuizFamily

Photo courtesy of GoFundMe.com/AlanRuizFamily

Staff Reports

DIAMOND BAR– An assistant coach for Diamond Bar High School’s water polo teams collapsed in the parking lot after Tuesday’s practice and died a short time later.

Alexander Ruiz, 45, a walk-on coach for the Brahmas water polo and swim teams, has been with the school since 2013.  An avid sports lover, Ruiz was also a martial artist and black belt student.

“He (Ruiz) was leaving campus late in the afternoon and he collapsed when he got to the parking lot,” Interim Principal Guy Roubian said. “He was with other assistant coaches who are trained in CPR and they initiated CPR until the paramedics came. He had a heartbeat when they transported him, but he died shortly after reaching the hospital.”

“It’s a terrible tragedy and it shook the whole school and the program,” Roubian said. “It has hit us all pretty hard. It was a shock to everybody.”

Ruiz leaves behind a wife and 3 children, including two sons who attend DBHS.  He was the sole breadwinner in the family, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with expenses. Donations can also be dropped off or mailed to: Diamond Bar High School, Attention: Water Polo – Coach Alexander Matal, 21400 Pathfinder Rd, Diamond Bar, CA 91765.

Brahma Mathletes named National Champs

Photo courtesy of Walnut Valley U.S.D.

Photo courtesy of Walnut Valley U.S.D.

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Diamond Bar High’s Math Team wrapped up its undefeated season in dramatic fashion.

After eight weeks of exciting competition against hundreds of schools across the nation, the Diamond Bar students were named the national Math Madness champions on December 11.

Math Madness is a national online event inspired by college basketball’s March Madness tournament. Teams in the contest, which is sponsored by the American Mathematics Association (AMA), play in a round-robin format and then are seeded into a draw of 64 teams.

First reports from the December 9 finals ranked the Brahmas as second place finishers against competitors from Valley Christian High School in San Jose.  Two days later, officials announced that the first place team had cheated, and named the Brahmas the winners

“We knew that the final match was going to be very, very close,” commented math teacher and advisor Jeff Brose.   Teachers Dena Lorde and Jimmy Kuo served as co-advisors and retired teacher Howard Alcosser as Coach Emeritus.

Each 30-minute weekly match contained a set of 10 questions which became more difficult as the competition progressed.  “In one of our matches this year, we earned the deciding point with just seconds remaining,” said Brose, whose team played in the Division IIE, which is the division made up of teams with more than 20 active members.  “Making it to the finals this year was a pretty big thing,” Brose said. The school’s best finish to date was making it to the quarterfinals.

“They (Valley Christian) had been performing on par with us through the tournament,” he added.

Playing other opponents in the semifinals, DBHS earned 69 points and Valley Christian earned 70 points. The team score was comprised of the top players’ scores.  In the final match, Diamond Bar earned 62 points, with about 60 students competing.  “Valley Christian shocked everyone by earning a whopping 93 points,” Brose said.

Diamond Bar’s top performer was Benjamin Chen, who was able to earn 9/10 on the final.  Ben is ranked #21 in the nation out of over 17,000 students.  Runner-ups Sabrina Tseng and William He each scored 7’s on the exam.

“When Valley Christian turned in an unbelievable six perfect 10/10 scores, AMA’s Tim Kelley determined they had cheated,” Brose said.  In the end, Diamond Bar was awarded the championship.   “This capped a truly unforgettable season,” said Brose.  The students learned some lifelong lessons, including the value of working as a team toward a goal and performing under pressure with poise and integrity, Brose said.  “And they learned some cool math too!” he quipped.

Diamond Bar High was among a select group of schools invited to join the new Math Madness competition when it began a few years ago.  Since then the contest has grown tremendously.
“Being named the champions is a major accomplishment, because a large number of the schools involved in the contest are private schools, prep schools, and specialized math and STEM academies,” Alcosser said.

 

Brahma Athletes Sign National Letters Of Intent

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High golfer Josephine Chang committed to University of Kentucky.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High golfer Josephine Chang committed to University of Kentucky.

By Kelli Gile/WVUSD

 

DIAMOND BAR—Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) golfer Josephine Chang and swimmer Jenna Lloyd will be taking their skills to compete at the collegiate level after signing national letters of intent on Nov. 13.

Chang, 17, will attend University of Kentucky in the fall on a coveted full-ride scholarship.

Louisville coaches contacted the teen last summer and came to watch her play in an East Coast tournament.

That same week, she visited the college to meet the athletic department staff and check out the indoor facilities and university-owned golf course. It was love at first sight.

“It was everything I possibly needed to pursue golfing,” she said during the signing ceremony with school officials and families.

“The coaches genuinely want me and made me feel welcome. And it’s beautiful and green and the trees change colors,” she added.

Chang began playing golf for fun with her big sister and cousins at age 7. Chang has golfed all four years on the DBHS varsity team that has won three CIF Championships, one Runner-Up CIF, and two CIF State Runner-Up awards.

In fifth grade, she met two coaches who introduced her to the world of competitive golf. She soon began playing junior tournaments.

“They helped shape me into the golfer I am today,” she said.

In 2014, the team claimed the State Championship against reigning champion, Torrey Pines High School.

“It was an amazing feeling when we came in and realized that we finally achieved the goal we’d been chasing since freshman year,” said Chang, who advanced to the State Semi-Finals as an individual player this year.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High senior Jenna Lloyd signed a college national letter of intent to attend San Jose State University. Pictured with Interim Principal Denis Paul, swim coach Darlys Ankeny Grade Level Coordinator Ginger Auten, and Athletic Director Kevin Ferguson.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High senior Jenna Lloyd signed a college national letter of intent to attend San Jose State University. Pictured with Interim Principal Denis Paul, swim coach Darlys Ankeny Grade Level Coordinator Ginger Auten, and Athletic Director Kevin Ferguson.

Lloyd, 17, will attend San Jose State University on a full-ride scholarship.

“I was so happy when I got the offer,” she said. “I love the school!”

The sprinter’s favorite race is the 100-meter breaststroke and her best time is an impressive 1 minute, 3 seconds.

“I’ve been swimming ever since I was little, about 4 years old,” she said. “And it’s fun!”

Lloyd made a competitive national team in the eighth grade and has qualified for a national contest. She now competes at the junior national level, which is just two levels below the Olympic trials level. This is Lloyd’s fourth year on the school’s varsity swim team.

“I love the new pool,” she says about the aquatic center that was dedicated in December 2013.

“It’s a beautiful facility, compared to other schools,” she said. “Having home meets gives us a boost during competitions.” Prior to the opening, DBHS teams practiced and competed at Walnut High. Lloyd plans to study communication disorders to pursue a career as a speech therapist.

 

Diamond Bar: The Skin Of Our Teeth

Thorton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning Play Makes Its Way to DBHS Stage

 

Courtesy of Diamond Bar High School Drama Department
DIAMOND BAR –The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Company begins its fall season with a performance of Thornton Wilder’s play The Skin of Our Teeth in the DBHS Theatre, with show times at November 6, 7, 13 & 14 at 7 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students; at the door adult tickets are $14 and students are $12. Tickets are available online at seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.

Written immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor, The Skin of Our Teeth is an allegory dealing with themes of human nature, human struggle, and humanity’s search for higher purpose and meaning in times of turbulence. The story follows the trials and tribulations faced by the Antrobuses, a sort of “Everyman Family,” whose members are archetypes found throughout human societies. Though the story is imbued with the concerns of America at the inception of its involvement in WWII and allusions to biblical characters, its themes of recurring violence and the effects of hedonistic lack of concern with the consequences of humanity’s actions speak to the current concerns of modern audiences in the turbulent beginnings of the 21st century.   The audience’s glimpse into the lives of the Antrobus family and their struggle for survival in a world on the precipice of ending, gives insight into the boldness and resilience of the human spirit.  Wilder’s play sees humanity as Phoenix-like ever rising from the ashes and never giving up hope for a better future.  Though the play deals with heavy themes, its anachronistic self-referential, theatrical approach is still fresh and packed with very funny moments.

Advanced Theatre Arts students at Diamond Bar High School work in a company structure to create and produce all aspects of their shows from design, to set construction, to publicity and performance.  Students are working hard to achieve high production values since this is the first time that a DBHS production has been submitted for adjudication by the California Educational Theatre Association.  The production will highlight the play’s theatricality by featuring several elements of audience participation that seek to immerse the audience into the drama and make them part of the creative process.

Celebrated playwright, Paula Vogel, has written, “For an American dramatist, all roads lead back to Thornton Wilder…The Skin of Our Teeth was a remarkable gift to an America entrenched in catastrophe, a tribute to the trait of human endurance.”

Congratulations Class Of 2015!

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD DBHS valedictorians Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Michelle Lyu, and Daniel Shin delivered the commencement address during graduation.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD DBHS valedictorians Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Michelle Lyu, and Daniel Shin delivered the commencement address during graduation.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Nearly 1,500 Walnut Valley Unified School District graduating seniors participated in commencement ceremonies on May 28.  Families and friends filled football stadiums carrying bouquets and helium balloons ready to celebrate the milestone accomplishment.

During the 32nd commencement at Diamond Bar High, 724 graduates in purple and gold cap and gowns streamed into Holmes Memorial Stadium.

“It hasn’t really hit me that it’s over,” said Marissa Kummerman before the 7 p.m. ceremony.  “It still seems like I will go back on Monday and hang out with my friends in the drama room and sing karaoke!”

“It’s definitely an exciting day,” added Jordan Lin, 18. “But it’s also a little sad saying goodbye to friends that I’ve known since elementary school.”

“It’s an amazing feeling to be done and to have accomplished my goals,” Antonio “Noodles” Hull shared. “My favorite memory is being around this good group of friends.”

Principal Catherine Real addressed the Class of 2015 during the commencement.

“This class is an accomplished body of students with standouts in the classroom, on the field, on the stage, and at the helm, who have set their own standards in the four As – Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics,” said Real. “And never before has a class been so defined by service to others.”

“Wherever life leads us after high school, I pray that we remember the important lessons we learned here, like hard work, perseverance, and dedication,” said class president, Daniel Shin.  “This class is the epitome of the phrase, ‘purple pride; gold standard!’”

Congratulations to DBHS valedictorians: Kyu Seo Ahn, Athena Chen, Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Sophia Deng, Jeannie Huang, Mandy Hung, Rena Jiang, Leanne Kao, Rae Lasko, Ju Sun Lee, Katlyn Lee, Young Lin, Michelle Lyu, Elizabeth Pang, Jin Sung Park, Derek Peng, Christie Sandjaya, Kimi Taira, Lai Tsung Wan, Emily Wong, Jordan Wong, Je-Han Yang, and Vivian Yan.

Each stellar scholar earned a perfect 4.0 G.P.A. all four years.

13 IB diploma candidates were recognized for completing the rigorous academic program:  Congratulations to Simran Bhogal, Zhen Hao Chen, Vanessa Cheng, Matthew Chiu, Rena Jiang, Leanne Kao, Serena Lin, Young Lin, Madison McCarty, Sydney Pun, Samantha Samoyfenko, Mayur Upparapalli, and Andrew Yoo.

The two groups of grads were awarded gold medallions to signify their accomplishment.

“Class of 2015, you do not leave this place alone,” Real added.  “You go forward with a global Brahma family ready to support you and celebrate your successes and we shall always be at your side. Seniors, congratulations and much luck to you always!”

Great High Schools

DBHS, WHS medal in latest U.S. News report

 

 By Kelli Gile

Walnut – U.S. News & World Report has once again listed Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools among the best schools in the state and the nation in the report issued on May 12.

To determine which schools are best preparing their students for college and careers, U.S. News looked at more than 29,000 public high schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Diamond Bar High received gold medal status out of 30,000 U.S. high schools, ranking 65th in the state and 348th in the nation.  Additionally, Diamond Bar’s Magnet ranking is 61st and STEM is 87th in the nation.

“Our rankings are a result of a partnership among students, staff, parents, community members, and the district office in supporting the balance provided by our foundations of the four A’s: Academics, Activities, the Arts, and Athletics,” said Principal Catherine Real.

Walnut High was awarded silver medal status and ranked 105th in the state and 542nd in the nation in the 2015 report.

“We were a little disappointed that Walnut didn’t receive the gold medal again this year,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.  “I realize that there are many who look at rankings as the total grade for a school. I am proud of the ranking we have but more importantly, I am really proud of the work that our students and staff do on a daily basis. We are student centered and I am proud that we provide positive opportunities for all students every day. In my opinion, we are focused on doing great things for kids!”

Schools were awarded medals based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. Advanced Placement test scores or International Baccalaureate test data were also used in the rankings.

This year, 500 high schools received gold medals, 2,027 schools earned silver and 3,990 took home bronze.

“At the center of our foundations is our belief in providing equitable access to opportunities for success to ALL of our students,” Real added.

 

Grammy Foundation Honors DBHS’ Acciani

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile 2015 Music Educator Award top-ten finalist, Steven Acciani, receives his honorarium, shown (L-R) with Assistant Supt. Dr. Michelle Harold; Assistant Supt. Dr. Matthew Witmer; Grammy Executive Education Director David Sears; Board Members Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz and Helen Hall; Principal Catherine Real; and Ford Motor Company Fund’s Dee Dee Boykin.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
2015 Music Educator Award top-ten finalist, Steven Acciani, receives his honorarium, shown (L-R) with Assistant Supt. Dr. Michelle Harold; Assistant Supt. Dr. Matthew Witmer; Grammy Executive Education Director David Sears; Board Members Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz and Helen Hall; Principal Catherine Real; and Ford Motor Company Fund’s Dee Dee Boykin.

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – On Mon., May 18, Music Educator Award Finalist, Steven Acciani, was honored at a presentation by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Foundation at the Diamond Bar High School Theater.

Grammy Foundation Vice President, Scott Goldman, presented honorariums to Acciani and Diamond Bar High School with generous support and resources provided by the Grammy Foundation’s Education Champions Converse, Disney Performing Arts, Ford Motor Company, Journeys, and Microsoft.  Acciani received a $1,000 honorarium, and DBHS received a matching $1,000 grant.

A joint partnership of the Recording Academy and the Grammy Foundation, the Music Educator Award was established to recognize current educators who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education, and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.  A total of ten music teachers from ten cities across nine states were finalists for the award.  In total, more than 7,000 initial nominations were submitted from all 50 states.

Acciani is the Instrumental Music Director at Diamond Bar High School, and has been with Walnut Valley Unified School district for 26 years.

DBHS Students Compete In Vans’ Custom Kicks Contest

Check out the DBHS designs and cast your vote at http://sites.vans.com/customculture/vote/ – Voting ends on Mon., May 11.

 

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High graphic design students are currently ranked in the top 10 in the Vans Custom Culture Contest.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High graphic design students are currently ranked in the top 10 in the Vans Custom Culture Contest.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Five Diamond Bar High students are currently ranked top 10 in the Vans Custom Culture contest.  They are looking for your votes to push them to the top.

The national high school competition invites students to show off their creativity.  Vans sent four pairs of blank white shoes to the first 3,000 schools that registered for the contest.

“All my graphic design students participated in the design process,” explained teacher Jon Haprov. “The class then voted on their favorites to be made into shoes.”

The designs of Sophia Arnold, junior; William Chen, junior; Star Vasquez, senior; Mary Zhuo, freshman; and Connie Mach, junior, made the cut.

“I love teamwork and being creative with a group,” Vasquez said about the design project.

Students customized the popular kicks around the themes of Art, Music, Action Sports, and Local Flavor.

“Some students have different strengths and they pooled those talents together in the final stages of the process,” Haprov added.

Check out the DBHS designs and cast your vote at http://sites.vans.com/customculture/vote/.   Voting ends on Mon., May 11.

“If everyone in Diamond Bar and Walnut cast one vote with their phone and one with their computer, that would be a lot of votes!” added Haprov.

The top five finalists will be flown to the final event, where a grand prize winner will be announced.

The lucky winner will receive $50,000 for their high school art program and a chance for their design to be sold in Vans’ retail stores. Runners up receive $4,000 toward their schools.

“Into The Woods” Comes To Diamond Bar

Photo Courtesy: Beatrice Casagran

Photo Courtesy: Beatrice Casagran

By Beatrice Casagran

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Arts Department will be performing “Into the Woods,” on April 23, 24, 25, 30 and May 1 and 2. All shows begin at 7 p.m.

“Into the Woods,” a musical from the book by James Lapine, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, takes a grown up twist on several Brothers Grimm fairy tales, including Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Rapunzel.  The production intertwines the plots of several stories with the original tale about a baker and his wife, their wish to begin a family, and their interaction with the witch who put a curse on them.

“My favorite part of the production is definitely the musical score. The music is so fun and catchy, and I’m having a lot of fun working with the cast to perfect it,” said DBHS student Will Nazareno, who not only plays the role of Rapunzel’s Prince, but is also Assistant Music Director.

As is the practice in the DBHS theater program, students involved with the musical, take a production class and work as a company on every element of production, including management, acting, stage-craft, set design, makeup design, publicity, fundraising, house management, box office, concessions and music.

The musical features live music played by DBHS’ Grammy Award-winning orchestra conducted by Steve Acciani.  The visually stunning set was designed through collaboration between staff and DBHS Theatre Performing Arts Academy students.  The idea of using books to represent each story came from a set design project by senior, Marissa Kummerman, and the basic lay out and idea to use trees for all the structural set elements came from a design by senior, Emily Beard, who also designed and built Milky White, the prominently featured cow in the show.

“The aim of the program is to give students real world experiences and skills that will give them a really strong base for college and career,” said Beatrice Casagran, DBHS Theatre Arts teacher.

“I’m very excited to be a part of this production. We’ve been putting in a lot of work to make it great, and I can’t wait to put it on for an audience,” said Amelia Anijielo, who is playing the Witch.

Though only a freshman, Anijielo has been wowing those who experience her strong, warm mezzo voice and magnetic stage presence.  She recently won an award for her acting at the Fullerton High School Theater Festival as part of the DBHS team.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama, or at the door. Ticket prices vary depending on seating section, starting at $12 for students and $15 for adults.  The Diamond Bar High School Theater is located at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road, in Diamond Bar.

 

 

DBHS Orchestra Cup Grand Champions

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) The 140-member Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra celebrates their 1st place Orchestra Cup award while sightseeing at New York City’s Rockefeller Center.

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
The 140-member Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra celebrates their 1st place Orchestra Cup award while sightseeing at New York City’s Rockefeller Center.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra has been crowned the best in the nation.  The 140-member orchestra won the National School Orchestra Finals at New York’s Lincoln Center.  As Grand Champions, Diamond Bar High received the prestigious Orchestra Cup award.

Guest Conductor, Sey Ahn, and Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, led the stellar performance of Brahms 4th Symphony.

The top eight schools in the country were invited to compete in the Finals, held Mar. 8, in the Alice Tully Hall.

“Just to be invited is fantastic,” Acciani said.

Two years ago DBHS came in second place.

“This year we picked a very difficult piece. Every person in the entire group has to be at a very high level just to even attempt it,” the orchestra director explained.

The elite musicians at Diamond Bar High were up for the challenge.

“We had the right combination of great wind players, great string players, and great percussion players,” said Acciani, a 2015 Grammy Music Educator Finalist.

“At the beginning we all knew the Brahms was a super difficult piece and we’ve played difficult pieces before,” said senior violinist Grace Chin. “Eventually it all paid off.”

Leading up to the festival the dedicated musicians put in weeks of after-school and weekend rehearsals.

“It was a really good moment for us because we had put in so much work,” shared junior cellist Eric Zhu.

“The kids were just phenomenal. To be able that pull it off at the level they did is remarkable,” Acciani said.

The DBHS performance earned a standing ovation from the other competitors and high praise from the judging panel.

“The judges commented that it was one of the finest orchestras they’ve ever heard,” Acciani said.

The 40-minute presentation was everything the group hoped it could possibly be.

“When we played in the big hall it sounded really amazing. Everything was on point and it felt like it was like worth the time and effort we put into it!” Zhu stated.

“It was one of those moments where everything connects. You’re able to take what the composer intended and communicate that to the audience. It was something pretty spectacular,” Acciani added.

Diamond Bar High School is the 2014 National Grammy Signature School.

 

DB High Alumnus Playing In Super Bowl XLIX

Diamond Bar High alumnus and New England Patriots offensive lineman, Ryan Wendell, will be playing in the 2015 Super Bowl on February 1 (Photo by Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar High alumnus and New England Patriots offensive lineman, Ryan Wendell, will be playing in the 2015 Super Bowl on February 1 (Photo by Kelli Gile           

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Check out Diamond Bar High School 2004 graduate, Ryan Wendell, when the New England Patriots face off against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX on February 1 at the University of Phoenix Stadium.

The DBHS standout was an All-CIF Southern Section selection as a senior defensive lineman, with more than 50 tackles, six sacks, and much more.

Wendell earned the same honor as an offensive lineman his junior year. He was the Sierra League’s Most Valuable Player as a junior.  Wendell’s DBHS #77 Brahma jersey is retired, and he was named to the school’s Hall of Fame.

Wendell earned a scholarship to Fresno State, was a four-year starter, and earned numerous accolades.

Wendell signed with the Patriots in 2008 as a free agent and played on the scout team before working his way onto the lineup, filling in for an injured lineman.  His work ethic and proven ability has earned him a spot on the starting team with quarterback, Tom Brady.

Wendell, #62, a guard, shifted to center after rookie Bryan Stork suffered a knee injury in the first half of the AFC second-round playoff game against Baltimore.   He is currently practicing as the starting center for the Super Bowl.

“Ryan worked at all the positions, all the way through the spring – center and guard,” Patriots Head Coach, Bill Belichick, said earlier this season.

“Ryan’s a really smart player. He’s one of the smartest players that we have, that we’ve had.” Belichick told the Fresno Bee this week.

At 6’ 2”, Wendell may be the smallest offensive lineman in the NFL, but he doesn’t let size stop him.  He plays with superior technical skills and heart, according to his former DBHS coach, Kurt Davies.

The pro football player stops by the high school every year to talk with the team.

This will be Wendell’s second Super Bowl appearance. And you can be sure Diamond Bar High will be cheering for this hometown hero on February 1!

Diamond Bar High School’s Acciani Named Finalist For Music Educator Award

By Kelli Gile

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Diamond Bar High School Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, has been named a finalist. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar High School Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, has been named a finalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award.            Ten teachers were selected from over 7,000 nominations around the country for their significant contributions to music education. Each finalist will receive $1,000 honorarium.

“We are extremely proud of the recognition that Mr. Acciani has earned from the Grammy Foundation. He is an inspirational music teacher and an integral part of who we are as a community. We are so happy for him!” said Principal Catherine Real.

This is Acciani’s 26th year teaching in the Walnut Valley Unified School District.

“I feel so fortunate to live and work in a community that recognizes the importance of the arts for our students. The school district and community continues to provide fantastic support for our programs, allowing us to do some pretty amazing things,” Acciani said.

While the Grammy ceremony is held to present artists with the recording industry’s most prestigious award, the Grammy Foundation and Recording Company will also honor one local hero. The winner will be announced during the 57th Annual Grammy Awards on February 8, 2015.

For the second year, the Grammy Music Educator Award will pay tribute to a special teacher for his/her remarkable impact on students. The winner will be flown to Los Angeles to accept the award, attend the Grammy Awards ceremony, and receive a $10,000 honorarium.

On November 11, Grammy honorary chairman and “American Idol” host, Ryan Seacrest, visited Diamond Bar High to congratulate Acciani on being named one of the 25 semifinalists for the award. Ford Motor Company was on hand that day hosting its Drive 4 UR School test-drive event to help raise money for the music program. Seacrest joined in the fun taking a test drive with two DBHS students.

Diamond Bar High was named the 2014 National Grammy Signature School, becoming the first high school in California to receive the prestigious award.

 

Diamond Bar: Brahma Golfers Sign College Letters Of Intent

By Kelli Gile

Congratulations to Brahma golfers, Sahith Theegala and Jefferson Kao, who have signed national letters of intent. Shown with Coach Ty Watkins and Principal Catherine Real.

Congratulations to Brahma golfers, Sahith Theegala and Jefferson Kao, who have signed national letters of intent. Shown with Coach Ty Watkins and Principal Catherine Real.

Diamond Bar – Two Diamond Bar High School varsity boys’ golfers have signed national college letters of intent.

Senior Sahith Theegala will attend Pepperdine University, and senior Jefferson Kao will attend University of California, Irvine in the fall.

“It’s exciting and kind of unbelievable,” Kao said about the receiving the athletic scholarship.

Theegala and Kao have been varsity players since their freshman year.

“Entering the Brahma team, we already knew all the players. It was like a big family because we played junior golf,” Kao explained. “Our goal was to help each other improve, improve as a team, and to play our best.”

Kao first picked up the clubs at 6-years of age, and they were the plastic ones. Now 17, he is excited about his decision to play at UC Irvine.

“I’m happy with the team, I already feel like it’s a family.”

Theegala said he only needed to look at a few colleges before making his decision.

“It feels awesome,” Theegala said after the signing day. “Pepperdine met all my requirements and the coaches are amazing,” the 16-year old said. He’ll be 17 in a week.

Theegala agreed that the long-term golf relationships helped the Brahma team.

“We all knew each other coming here and kind of fed off each other.  And when the golf season starts we have so much fun. It goes by too fast!”

“The Diamond Bar Golf Program has had some great success over the past few years, mostly due to the great accomplishments of Sahith Theegala and Jefferson Kao,” praised Coach Ty Watkins.

The DBHS Boys Golf Team was named 2012 League Champions, CIF Champions, 2013 League Champions, CIF Champions, 2014 League Champions, and CIF Runner-ups.

“The Varsity Boys Golf Team has been riding on the coat tails of these two extraordinary young men, we are hoping to make one more run at a CIF title, and maybe even a run at a CIF State championship, like the Diamond Bar Girls team.  Our team is incredibly excited for Sahith and Jefferson, and we know the Pepperdine community of Malibu and the Irvine community will benefit because of these two wonderful men,” said Watkins.

 

 

 

Diamond Bar: Ryan Seacrest Celebrates DB High School Music Director

STAFF REPORTS

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Diamond Bar High School senior flutist, Bridget Pei, took a test drive with Ryan Seacrest during the Drive 4UR School fundraiser on Nov. 11. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Diamond Bar – “American Idol” Host, Ryan Seacrest, came to Diamond Bar High School to celebrate Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, a national semifinalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award.

The Grammy Foundation and Ford Motor Company presented the special event on November 11.

KIIS-FM – with Manny on the Streets – entertained families with concert tickets, CD give-a-ways, and line dances as they awaited the celebrity’s arrival. The DBHS Color Guard and Band performed “Happy” when Seacrest arrived before a huge crowd of fans at 1 p.m.

Seacrest, the Honorary Grammy Foundation Chair, greeted music teacher Acciani on stage.

“We want to congratulate you and thank you for all you do,” Seacrest said.

Acciani said that he was a bit nervous speaking in front of the crowd.

“I usually have my back to the audience,” the Music Director quipped.

Acciani said that he was extremely grateful for the support of the program.

“I think the whole community embraces what the arts can do for our students and they’re incredibly supportive. It adds so much academically and gives the students a way to express themselves.”

The event featured 700 instrumental music students who played during the fundraising festival.

DBHS partnered with Ford Motor Company and Fairway Ford for the Drive 4 UR School national test drive program to help raise money for the school’s outstanding music program. During the one-day event, $20 (up to $6,000) was donated for every person who test-drove one of the 2015 models including the Flex, Fusion, F-150, Escape, Explorer, and C-MAX.

Two excited Brahmas were plucked from the audience to go on a test drive with Seacrest.

“It was fantastic! He’s a great guy,” exclaimed senior Will Nazareno, a 17-year old tuba player after the ride of his life. Nazareno then described his award-winning music teacher.

“Mr. Acciani is such a pride for Diamond Bar High!” he said. “He helps us with everything we do; he guides us, and serves as our light.”

Senior flutist, Bridget Pei, drove to the local In-N-Out with the television star.

“I got a cheeseburger and Ryan got the healthy choice, a protein burger.” The crew at In-N-Out was a little shaken up by the surprise visit, she explained.

“They were so excited that when they gave us the change, they dropped the money, so we had to go outside and get it.”

Pei is thrilled her teacher received the national award.

“There’s no other band director in the entire world that deserves it more that he does. Mr. A (as he is known) dedicates his heart and soul into this program.”

The community lined up to support the Drive 4 UR School program.

“Anything I can do to help raise money for the school, I’m willing to do. And to test drive a car is a great opportunity to try out a new vehicle,” said DBHS English teacher Stacy Tenace.

“I’m excited about any creative ways they can raise funds for the kids. So this is great!” said band parent, Sam Ocon, just before driving a new Ford Fusion.

Several guest musicians joined the Commercial Music Program rock band performance including Dramarama singer, John Easdale, and Oingo Boingo drummer, Johnny Vatos.

One of the day’s highlights was when Acciani played the saxophone during the classic, “Dead Man’s Party.”

Acciani was selected as one of 25 semifinalists out of more than 7,000 nominations from all 50 states. The Music Educator Award recognizes educators who have made a significant and long lasting contribution to music education in the schools.

Finalists will be named in December. The national winner will be announced live at the Grammy Awards in February.

 

 

Walnut Valley: Best High Schools In America

 BY KELLI GILE

 

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Diamond Bar High School Class of 2014 Super Star Seniors Steven Gomez, Claire Huang, Jane Wu, and Vrajesh Shah. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

 

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) is pleased to announce that both Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools have been ranked in the top 100 of all high schools in America, by the Daily Beast publication.

Diamond Bar High School ranked #54 overall in the nation, and #7 in California. They also scored in the top 100 in specific categories of Rigor, Graduation Rates, and ACT/SAT scores.

Walnut High School ranked #97 overall in the nation and #11 in California.  They also scored in the top 100 in the specific category of Rigor.

This is a remarkable achievement when considering it’s estimated that there are more than 30,000 public and private high schools across the country. It also appears that WVUSD is the only school district in California with two high schools in the top 100 in the nation.

“This is an incredible achievement for our schools and entire community,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor stated. “It is a reflection of the relentless commitment to student achievement on behalf of our Board of Trustees, staff, students, parents, and community.  And, to be what appears as the only school district in California with two high schools ranked in the top 100 nationally is a tribute to the “Kids First” attitude throughout our K-12 community.”

Principals Catherine Real at Diamond Bar High, and Jeff Jordan at Walnut High, received notification of the prestigious national recognition on Wed., Aug. 27.

“Our ranking is a result of our hard work with our students, our excellent staff, our supportive community, and the commitment to responsibly increase access to rigorous courses to a greater number of students,” Real said.

“I am so proud of our Walnut High staff for this accomplishment. It definitely reflects the hard work and dedication that takes place on this campus.  Our school has always taken a team approach to do what is best for our students. Both certificated and classified staffs take pride to provide great service to our students,” Jordan said.

The Daily Beast publication uses six indicators taken from school surveys to compare public high schools in the United States, with graduation and college acceptance rates weighed most heavily. Other criteria included college-level courses and exams, percentage of students with free or reduced lunch, and SAT and ACT scores.  The full results can be viewed at http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/08/27/america-s-top-high-schools.html.