Tag Archives: Walnut Valley Unified School District

Walnut: Board Honors Outstanding Students and Community Partner

WV Board of Trustees

Dr. Cesar Larriva received the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Evergreen Elementary Principal Carolyn Wills, Board President Cindy Ruiz, and Teachers Lori Huckler, Linda Freedman, Laura O’Donnell from Collegewood Elementary, and Vicky Silcock from Suzanne Middle School.

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized outstanding students and a community member during the May 21 meeting.

 

“Evergreen is pleased to recognize these students and community partner who exemplify our STEAM –Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math Programs,” said Principal Carolyn Wills.

 

First grader Ianna Lin was honored as a Super Star Student. Ianna is the youngest member of a California state champion Odyssey of the Mind team that has advanced to the World Finals.   The team successfully completed the Stackable Structure challenge by building a balsa wood tower that held 548 pounds during the State Finals.  She also competed in an event at Iowa State University May 28 to June 1.

 

Evergreen Elementary first grader Victoria Cho was also recognized as a Super Star Student. She received a $100 award as her prize and generosity donated all of her winnings to her school.

 

Dr. Cesar Larriva, a Cal Poly Pomona professor and the Director of the School Robotics Initiative received the Partner in Education Award. “He has been the driving force behind many fabulous programs in several Walnut Valley schools.” Wills said.

 

Several years ago, Dr. Larriva and former Principal Dr. Susan Brown launched the Professional Development School and Robotics Program at Collegewood Elementary. Robotics programs have now grown to include Suzanne Middle School and Evergreen Elementary.

 

Walnut Elementary 5th Grader, James Wu, received a certificate of special recognition during the meeting.

James won 3rd Place in the 2014 National Missing Children’s Day poster contest. Over 600 posters from over 60 elementary schools from around the country were entered in the competition. “I hope this drawing brings awareness to missing children so they can be reunited with their families,” James said on his Bring Our Missing Children Home entry.

 

He received a leather-bound certificate from the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigative Services.

 

2014 Student Representatives Alisa Nguyen-Le from Diamond Bar High and Ifeoma Ike from Walnut High were recognized during the meeting.

 

“They have been so valuable to our team and added such great information at our Board Meetings,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

 

“We truly enjoy our Student Representatives coming and sharing the great things going on within the high schools. We thank you for your time and dedication,” said Board President Cindy Ruiz. The representatives were also honored during 2014 Awards Night presentations.

Walnut: WV Students Treated to Lunch at Benihana

By Kelli Gile

WVUSD-elementary students honored

Eight WV students were honored by their principals at Benihana Restaurant on May 13; also shown: General Manager Raymond Chen. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Eight elementary students earned a sizzling reward during the 16th Annual Lunch with the Principal, at Benihana Restaurant.

Elementary schools selected hard a working student to honor during the May 13 event held at the City of Industry restaurant. The 5th Grade special guests included Zayn Siddique from Castle Rock, Rex Hsu from Evergreen, Jesse Ramirez from Quail Summit, Yu Jing Guo from Vejar, Gaelen Shen from C.J. Morris, Andrew Blando from Collegewood, Matthew Mora from Westhoff, and Destiny Trujillo from Walnut Elementary.

 

Students were selected for improvements in academics, citizenship, growth, and working well with others. Benihana’s Lunch with the Principal provides an opportunity to recognize these youngsters for their determination and perseverance and to applaud it.

 

The friendly chefs entertained their audiences as they grilled up chicken, shrimp, and vegetables on their hibachi grills. They skillfully drizzled eggs into the shape of a SpongeBob SquarePants character before scrambling it up into tasty fried rice. After enjoying the teppan-style Japanese lunch, everyone saved room for ice cream.

 

The principals were eager to brag about their students. Westhoff Principal, Denise Rendon, wished a belated happy birthday to 5th Grader Matthew Mora during his tribute. Collegewood Principal, Joan Perez, described 5th Grader Andrew Blando as being very unique because he really likes homework. He also came to school early during a recent project to ensure it was completed on time.

 

“It showed perseverance and his willingness to focus on school and do his very best. We’re very proud of Andrew!” said Perez.

 

Quail Summit Principal Dr. Alysia Hobbs-Odipo said that typically the 5th Grade teachers select a student to honor for the year-end event. But Jess Ramirez made such an impact that his 4th Grade teacher nominated him a year ago.

 

“So Jesse was prepared for today far before any of the rest of us!” she said. “We believe the very best about him. Jesse has worked hard, he’s bright, and he’s thoughtful.”

 

Castle Rock Principal Carol Sullivan introduced Zayn Siddique. “Zayn’s teacher, Mrs. Rogers, described him as a being a leader and very smart. Students look up to him for advice and help. He is a wonderful guy,” she said.

 

“Rex Hsu has made progress and is becoming a stellar citizen and student in his class,” said Evergreen Principal Carolyn Wills. Rex wants to be a racecar driver or a speed stacking champion. For his famous American report, he said he learned about Babe Ruth.

 

C.J. Morris Elementary Principal Donna Hunter introduced 5th Grader Gaelen Shen. His teacher said Gaelen has grown to become a leader in his classroom, he is part of student council, and was one of the stars in a recent Character Champions play.

 

Walnut Elementary Principal Janet Green introduced 5th Grader Destiny Trujillo by saying, “She is a straight “A” student, an incredible leader, and without her our recycling team would not be where it is today.” Destiny is also a musician; she’s in the school Showcase Choir, and Band.

 

Vejar Principal Jennifer De Anda honored Yu Jing Guo. “When you have a conversation with Yu Jing, you would not know she’s only been here in America for one year. She speaks and reads beautifully, she is a wonderful helper, and she shows the Vejar Values.”

 

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor presented each student with a certificate of recognition. The honorees received goodie bags, a Benihana chef hat and posed for keepsake photos.

 

Benihana is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year and celebrating with a year-long “Passport Challenge” and a grand prize trip for four to Japan. For more information on Benihana or the Passport Challenge, visit their website at www.benihana.com.

 

 

 

WV Board Appoints Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Dr. Matthew Witmer

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Dr. Matthew Witmer

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees approved Dr. Matthew Witmer as the new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services during the February 19 meeting.

Dr. Witmer has a strong background in the area of curriculum and instruction, and has led the transition into Common Core State Standards. The veteran educator brings 18 years of experience to his new post, which he formally assumed on March 3.

“Dr. Witmer possesses the leadership qualities, technical knowledge of the position, and proven ability to perform effectively in this administrative role,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor. “I look forward to working with Dr. Witmer. He will make a great addition to the Walnut Valley family,” he added.

Since 2012, Dr. Witmer served as Director of Educational Services in the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD). He was responsible for all areas of the division in the 54,000-student district. During his tenure, CNUSD was selected as a 2012 and 2013 finalist district of the Broad Prize for Urban Education.

Additionally, Dr. Witmer is an adjunct Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of California, Irvine Extension, and Azusa Pacific University. Prior to that, he worked as an associate professor, director, interim program director, principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Dr. Witmer received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

“The reputation of the Walnut Valley Unified School District has been outstanding for a long time, and I look forward to supporting our students’ learning and contributing to the district’s future success,” said Dr. Witmer.

 

Diamond Bar: WVUSD Board Recognizes South Pointe Star Student and Partner in Education

Dr. Neil Vedecha was recognized with the South Pointe Middle School Partner in Education Award

Orthodontist Dr. Neil Vedecha was recognized with the South Pointe Middle School Partner in Education Award on February 19. Shown with Principal Susan Arzola and Board President Cindy Ruiz.

BY KELLI GILE

Diamond Bar— The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees honored a Super Star Student and Community Partner from South Pointe Middle School during the February 19 meeting.

Dr. Neil Vadecha was awarded with the Partner in Education Award. He is a WVUSD graduate and an orthodontist in the Claremont area. Vadecha stepped forward to transform a shy, withdrawn student with a serious dental problem to a confident, successful young man who is not afraid to smile. “Dr. Vadecha very generously made sure this student’s dental issues were addressed – and as a result a life was changed,” Principal Susan Arzola said.

The student started making friends with his peers. He joined student groups and began getting recognized for his special gifts and talents. “Because of Dr. Vedecha’s generosity, the student’s social confidence was lifted and his social interactions became a source of joy for him,” Arzola added. As a result of this correction of this dental issue, he became more involved in school activities both at South Pointe and he has now moved on successfully to high school. “Thank you is simply not enough Dr. Vedecha. You not only changed a life, you saved a life,” she said.

Eighth grader Angel Mendoza was honored as a Super Star Student at the meeting. “In the midst of Panther Country, we have remarkable students who have persevered and accomplished great things on a personal level,” Arzola said.

Angel’s family suffered a great loss during elementary school. When Angel entered South Pointe, it was a new beginning

South Pointe 8th grader Angel Mendoza was honored as a Super Star Student on February 19.

South Pointe 8th grader Angel Mendoza was honored as a Super Star Student on February 19. Shown with Principal Susan Arzola and Board President Cindy Ruiz.

for him. “Angel chose to seize the moment. And with a new outlook and attitude, he began advocating for himself, asking questions when he didn’t understand and showing pride in his appearance and attendance,” Arzola said. And through hard work and determination, he has earned a 2.6 GPA. “He didn’t give up and we are very proud to call him a Panther,” she added.

Walnut: WVUSD Honors “A Class Act” Classified Employees

BY KELLIE GILE

Walnut– The Walnut Valley Unified School District continued its longstanding tradition of recognizing outstanding employees on February 7.

The twelve 2013 Cornerstone Award winners were lauded with personalized tributes and gifts during the 15th Annual “A Class Act” awards held at the Pomona Valley Mining Company.

The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation and WVUSD Personnel Commission co-sponsored the recognition event. Dr. Michelle Harold, assistant superintendent of human resources and Robert Chang, director of human resources, hosted this year’s ceremony.

The Cornerstone Award recognizes exemplary (non-teaching) employees who have gone “above and beyond the call of duty” in providing outstanding customer service to the District and community. Recipients are announced during monthly Personnel Commission meetings.

Congratulation to the following 2013 Cornerstone Award honorees:

Margaret Wong, School Office Manager at Evergreen Elementary; Sharon Liu, Instructional Aide I-Bilingual/Bicultural at Maple Hill Elementary; Laura Morris, Instructional Aide II Special Education at C.J. Morris Elementary; Shelley Patton, Instructional Aide II Special Education at Maple Hill Elementary; Lorraine Gomez, Health Clerk at Suzanne Middle School; Yenny Ong, Food Service Worker II at Quail Summit Elementary; Monica Cazares, Accounting Assistant II at the Child Care Program; Patricia Acevez, Office Assistant/Health Clerk at Vejar Elementary; Patti Malatacca, School Office Manager at Quail Summit Elementary; Maria Cabrera, Instructional Aide II at Vejar Elementary; Marilyn Higa, Instructional Aide II-Special Education at Evergreen Elementary; Gale Taylor, Library Media Technician II at South Pointe Middle School.

“Thank you for what you do every single day for our kids. You represent the very best of an outstanding group of classified employees across the District,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor said.

Gale Taylor was named the 2013 Classified Employee of the Year at the culmination of the program.

“It is truly an honor to be recognized as the WVUSD 2013 Classified Employee of the Year. Thank you to my principal, Susan Arzola, for nominating me for the Cornerstone Award. It is both a challenge and pleasure to be able to play a role in preparing our students for the 21st Century,” she said.

For the past 11 years, Gale has been dedicated to instilling the love of reading at South Pointe. One of the ways she inspires students is with The Read Along Challenge, a lunchtime group that meets to read and discuss select novels and prepare for a competition. Gale has also taken the lead in introducing eBooks to the Walnut Valley Library. A partnership with the two high schools and lots of fundraising enabled the rollout WVUSD’s first eBook program.

“It is our pleasure to present the award for Classified Employee of the Year to Gale Taylor for her work above and beyond what is normally expected, preparing students for the 21st Century with eBooks and other resources. What’s coming in the next generation of our libraries and literacy is phenomenal. We’re planting the seeds for the future in the District,” said Commissioner Ron Everett.

Taylor also received special awards from the WVUSD Board of Trustees and Walnut Valley Educational Foundation.

The City of Walnut honored each recipient with a Certificate of Recognition.

Thanks to the following sponsors: Schools First Federal Credit Union, Sandy Best – BB & T Insurance Services, Massage Envy and LifeTouch Photography.

 

Walnut Valley: WVUSD To Host Parent And Community Meetings

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District will host three parent meetings in late February to discuss the new Common Core State Standards and the Smarter Balanced Assessment.  Kindergarten through 12th Grade families and community members are invited to attend.

“We want to really get the word out to our parents and community about the shifts taking place and how we’re preparing our students, and answer any questions they may have,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

The District-wide meetings will be held at Walnut and Diamond Bar High Schools and the District Office. The same presentation will be offered at each meeting.

•       Tuesday, Feb. 25:  Walnut High School Performing Arts Center – Presentations in Mandarin, Korean, Spanish, and English.

•       Wednesday, Feb.  26:  Diamond Bar High School Theater – Presentation in English.

•       Thursday, Feb.  27:  WVUSD District Office Board Room – Presentation in English.

In addition, all WVUSD schools will continue to provide information on these new standards and assessments.  Schools across the nation have been transitioning to new standards in language arts and math.  The Common Core standards focus on teaching students not only foundational skills, but how to think critically to be better prepared to succeed in college and the workplace.

To better align with 21st Century skills, nearly all future state testing, beginning this spring, will be computer based.  These new tests are called the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBAC).  The pilot SBACs will be administered this spring in Walnut Valley Schools.  All public schools in California will have the opportunity to pilot the computer-based assessments before the official SBAC assessments begin in 2014-2015.

For further information, please visit the website at http://www.wvusd.k12.ca.us.

Walnut Valley: WV Named to AP Honor Roll

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Caption: Walnut Valley Unified School District is an AP Honor Roll recipient.

AP Honor Roll

Walnut Valley Unified School District is an AP Honor Roll recipient. (Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile)

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut—Walnut Valley Unified School District has been named to College Board’s 2013 AP District Honor Roll.

The 4th annual list includes 477 districts across the U.S. and Canada being honored for increasing access to AP® course work while simultaneously maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams.
Walnut Valley has achieved the honor for multiple years.

“Congratulations to our outstanding students, teachers, staff members and administrators. This distinction confirms Walnut Valley’s ongoing commitment to preparing our students for college, careers and beyond,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Reaching these goals indicates that these districts are successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are likely to benefit from rigorous AP course work, according to College Board.

Data from 2013 show that among African American, Hispanic, and Native American students with a high degree of readiness for AP, only about half of students are participating because their schools do not always offer the AP course for which they have potential. These 477 districts are committed to expanding the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated students of all backgrounds.

Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators, to college professors. Many districts are experimenting with a variety of initiatives and strategies to determine how to simultaneously expand access and improve student performance.

Inclusion on the 4th Annual AP District Honor Roll is based on the examination of three years of AP data, from 2011 to 2013, for the following criteria:

  • Increased participation/access to AP by at least four percent in large districts, at least six percent in medium districts, and at least 11 percent in small districts;
  •  Increased or maintained the percentage of exams taken by African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native students, and;
  • Improved performance levels when comparing the percentage of students in 2013 scoring a three or higher to those in 2011, unless the district has already attained a performance level at which more than 70 percent of its AP students are scoring a three or higher

Walnut: Board Honors Outstanding Students and Parent Volunteers

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut — The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees paid tribute to outstanding students and parent volunteers during the January 15 meeting.

WVUSD Holiday Card Contest winner

Michelle Xu, winner of the 2013 WVUSD Holiday Card Contest.

Evergreen Elementary 5th grader, Michelle Xu, won the 2013 Holiday Greeting Card Art Contest. The talented young artist was recognized with a certificate and framed copy of her original artwork by Board President, Cindy Ruiz. She also received a gift certificate to Chick-fil-A restaurant, courtesy of owners Bob and Michelle Sun.

WVUSD Super Star Student Awardee 2014

Andrew Zambrano won the Super Star Student Award

Walnut Elementary School 5th grader, Andrew Zambrano, was honored as a Super Star Student.“Since kindergarten, he has taken advantage of several opportunities to become involved in school. He plays saxophone in our school band, sings in the Showcase Choir, won awards in chess and is an assembly greeter, which highlights his terrific interpersonal skills,” Principal Green said. Andrew has been able to do all this with the loving support of his parents who make sure he is enrolled in after-school wrestling, jujitsu and basketball.

WVUSD Partner in Education Awardee 2014

Walnut Elementary parent volunteer, Ceping Chao (shown with Board President, Cindy Ruiz), was honored with the Partner in Education Award. (photo courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut Elementary parent volunteer, Ceping Chao, was introduced as the school’s Partner in Education. “She is a founding parent of our Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Mandarin program and her two daughters are currently in DLI Kindergarten and Grade 2,” said Principal Green.

“Ceping volunteers her time in the classrooms and the teachers say that she is always ready to lend a helping hand. They love her because she is so patient with students. She attends parent education meetings and convinces more parents to become involved. She has even taken on the task of revamping and revising our school website – I believe there were five pages of changes to be made!” said Green.
Diamond Bar High School junior, Josh DeSoto-Rivera, was honored with the Super Star Student Award.

WVUSD Super Star Student 2013

Josh DeSoto-Rivera (shown with Board President, Cindy Ruiz) was honored as a Super Star Student

“I want to recognize Josh for the growth he has shown through the past years. He really didn’t have any goals and didn’t see the intrinsic reward of a good education. As a sophomore, he entered the Pathways Communications Academy,” she said.

“It is a great program, now 17 years old that offers our kids a school within a school opportunity. It incorporates concepts of multiple intelligences, career guidance, interactive instruction and applied learning – all while focusing on interpersonal relationships,” Real explained.

The curriculum includes a broad spectrum of college prep and career tech electives as well as a steering committee of local businessmen and educational institutions who work closely with students. “The program offers an opportunity for real life experiences and it makes students aware and competitive in today’s job force. Because of this program, I think Josh saw the light,” Real explained.

Partner in Education Awardee 2013

George Ganesh (shown with Board President, Cindy Ruiz and Principal, Catherine Real), was recognized with the Partner in Education Award

“This summer, he took on registration for the Boosters Club. Mr. Ganesh’s job was to organize and get the Booster parents enthusiastic to work at the booth during four weeks of registration appointments,” Real explained.

“And of course, the process went a lot like him: it was organized, it was pleasant and it was productive. I can’t say enough about the contributions that he made because at the end of registration, the Boosters had reached a new level of unity, sign-ups and participation,” Real said.

“When I think about Mr. Ganesh, I also think of his children, Namesha and Niraj. They are a lot like him. They are equally enthusiastic, well-rounded, intelligent, kind, compassionate and humble. I think it’s true what they say about apple not falling very far from the tree!” Real said.

Walnut Valley: WVUSD to Honor Classified Employees

Walnut Valley Unified School District

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) will honor the monthly 2013 Cornerstone Award recipients during the 15th Annual Class Act Gala on Friday, Feb. 7, at the Pomona Valley Mining Company.

Twelve classified (non-teaching) employees received this award for providing outstanding service to the District.

Congratulations to the following honorees:

January: Margaret Wong, School Office Manager, Evergreen Elementary
February: Sharon Liu, Instructional Aide-I, Bilingual/Bicultural, Maple Hill Elementary
March: Laura Morris, Instructional Aide-II, Special Education, C.J. Morris Elementary
April: Shelley Patton, Instructional Aide-II, Special Education, Maple Hill Elementary
May: Lorraine Gomez, Health Clerk, Suzanne Middle School
June: Yenny Ong, Food Service Worker-II, Quail Summit Elementary
July: Monica Cazares, Accounting Assistant-II, Child Care Program
August: Patricia Acevez, Office Assistant/Health Clerk, Vejar Elementary
September: Patti Malatacca, School Office Manager, Quail Summit Elementary
October: Maria Cabrera, Instructional Aide-II, Vejar Elementary
November: Marilyn Higa, Instructional Aide-II, Special Education, Evergreen Elementary
December: Gale Taylor, Library Media Technician-II, South Pointe Middle School

The Classified Employee-of-the-Year will be announced at the culmination of the program, sponsored by the WVUSD Personnel Commission and Walnut Valley Educational Foundation.

Tickets are $25 for Adults. For reservations, please contact the Human Resources Department at (909) 595-1261, by January 24.

The Pomona Valley Mining Company is located at 1777 Gillette Road in Pomona.

The WVUSD Chinese American Parents Association will Host Annual Christmas Party

The Walnut Valley Unified School District’s Chinese American Parents Association (WVUSD-CAPA) will host its annual Christmas Party celebration for Walnut Seniors this coming Tuesday, December 17.

Walnut Council Member and WVUSD-CAPA Chairperson Mary Su said, “It is my honor and privilege to host this important event for Walnut’s Seniors again this year.  Every year we invite 50 to 60 kindergarten students to perform Christmas songs, which of course our Seniors always love, and every Walnut Senior who attends also receives a bag of handsome Christmas gifts from WVUSD-CAPA.”

This year’s Christmas Party for Walnut’s Seniors will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17th at the Walnut Senior Citizens Center, 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut. This year Los Angeles County Fire Fighters will also be joining with Walnut’s Seniors for this wonderful holiday celebration.