October 21, 2019
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
WALNUT, CA--The Board of Trustees paid tribute to Quail Summit Elementary and Chaparral Middle School standout students and community members during the October 16 meeting.
Quail Summit fifth grader Arthy Chaisakulchai received the Super Star Student Award for his high scoring performances in Math Olympiad (top scorer) and Math League (1st place in region, district and state).
In fact, the young math whiz took 1st place awards in five different Math League competitions before advancing to nationals and taking home the 3rd place trophy.
In the classroom, Arthy works hard, is always kind and respectful, and helpful to classmates.
“Arthy exemplifies what it means to have a growth mindset,” said Principal Frances Weissenberger. “We are very proud of Arthy as a mathematician and as a person!”
Artist (and former parent) Margot Bloom was honored with the Partner in Education Award for the beautiful mural spaces she has created on campus.
The school’s lobby features a character trait mural painting with several Quail Summit students.
Down the hall, a stunning 15-foot-long tree mural is decorated with handprint leaves from every student and staff member on campus.
Most recently, she designed the artwork for an outdoor kindness rock garden and buddy bench.
When Margot is working on campus, she is usually surrounded by students while describing what she is doing.
“I know this slows her progress, but you can tell she loves talking with the students and hopefully instilling a love of creativity in them,” Weissenberger said.
“Margot has brought beauty to our campus and for that we will always be grateful!”
Chaparral 8th grader Aslin Choi was acknowledged with the Super Star Student Award for exemplifying academic excellence with a 4.0 GPA for the past two years, including 21 of 24 A+ scores.
She has also been involved in a wide variety of activities, including ASB, choir, yearbook, and was cast in the lead role in the spring musical.
Last summer, Aslin interviewed and was accepted to the UC Irvine Tech Trek Team where she participated in five days of STEM/STEAM activities on the college campus.
“We are so proud of this year’s Chaparral standout student – she’s awesome!” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.
Parent volunteer Amy Hou received the Partner in Education Award for dedicated work as CAPA president facilitating meetings, fundraising, and translating for the parent community.
“Amy has overseen the growth of CAPA (Chinese American Parent Association) into a high-powered, highly involved campus parent group,” Thibodeaux said.
CAPA has already donated thousands of dollars this year to support Band, Orchestra, Science Olympiad, ASB, and GATE programs.
“We are fortunate to have her on campus and celebrate her as our parent partner!” Thibodeaux added.
Shown:
Board President Helen Hall presents Quail Summit fifth grader Arthy Chaisakulchai with the Super Star Student Award on Oct. 16. Also shown with Principal Frances Weissenberger.
Trustees Helen Hall and Larry Redinger recognize artist Margot Bloom with the Partner in Education Award. Also shown with Principal Frances Weissenberger and family members.
Chaparral Middle School 8th grader Aslin Choi receives the Super Star Student Award on Oct. 16.
Chaparral MS Super Star Student Aslin Choi shown with Principal Ron Thibodeaux and Board President Helen Hall. Also shown with family members.
Chaparral Middle School parent volunteer Amy Hou receives the Partner in Education Award on Oct. 16. Shown with Principal Ron Thibodeaux and Board President Helen Hall. Also shown with Assistant Principal Denise Loera and children.