May 1, 2021
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
WALNUT, CA—In keeping with tradition, the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees honored outstanding students and parent partners during the April 21 meeting.
Evergreen Elementary fifth grader Marcus Ling was saluted with the school’s Super Star Student Award. Marcus always has a positive attitude and is the type of student that shines. Marcus’s teachers say his smile and laughter have brightened online learning each morning. He arrives prepared for class, is always cheerful, and a hard worker. This past year, Marcus has become a very good artist and loves to share his work on Zoom. He also has a special talent of remembering everyone’s birthday!
“Marcus has touched our hearts and we are proud and honored to have him grow up at our school!” said Principal Trina Dreyer.
Parent volunteer Jennifer Chung was honored with the Partner in Education Award. Jennifer is a humble and faithful volunteer who currently serves as the Community Club second vice president. Her artistic talent and creativity have been displayed at many school events. Jennifer re-painted a school mural, designed special “Students SOAR Here” signs, and keeps bulletin boards up-to-date. This year, she planned the annual spring fundraiser and has worked collaboratively with fellow Community Club board members to organize staff luncheons, family fun nights and movie nights, and more.
“We are grateful to have someone like Jennifer at Evergreen – her contributions to our school are endless,” Principal Dreyer shared.
Ron Hockwalt Academies senior Flora Xu was lauded with the Super Star Student Award. Flora lives her life to make a difference and is a model student who goes above and beyond in every aspect of learning. As a deep thinker, Flora is sensitive to others’ needs and classmates are drawn to her incredible work ethic and heart. Flora has grown tremendously in her capability as a student, often demonstrating grit, perseverance, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to school. And because of this dedication, she was able to accomplish her personal goal of graduating high school in just three-and-a-half years.
“Flora has embraced the school’s HOPE motto with heart, optimism, personal responsibility, and excellence in all that she does!” shared WVUSD Director of Pupil Personnel Dr. Ron Thibodeaux.
With 14 years of service in Walnut Valley USD, steadfast parent volunteer Jeff Day received the Partner in Education Award. Jeff and his family recently donated to the creation of a wellness center at the Ron Hockwalt Academies. A new HOPE Center will be a safe place where students can unplug, process, connect, communicate, and set healthy goals for their future.
“Jeff represents the many parents in our District who play an essential role in the educational process with their ongoing support and encouragement,” Dr. Thibodeaux said. “Thank you, Jeff, for this generous gift and providing a place of HOPE for students at Ron Hockwalt Academies!”
Diamond Bar High School seniors Harris Daud and Crystal Tsao were recognized as winners of the 2021 National Moot Court competition. Math teachers Letitia Thomas and Margaret Ku coach the school’s Mock Trial Team with support from L.A. County Deputy District Attorney Angela Brunson. This year’s spring Moot Court competition, hosted by Duke University, was held virtually due to COVID-19. Ten students from Diamond Bar High vied online (in Thomas’ classroom) with over 50 teams from around the nation. The two-member Moot Court teams were given a fictitious court case with a Constitutional argument. Students wrote 10-minute arguments on their own, both for and against an issue, and then were questioned the entire time before giving a rebuttal.
“It is truly an amazing accomplishment - the law they have to learn, the arguments they have to write, and the amazing grace they showed handling the questions they were asked,” Thomas said. “Congratulations Harris and Crystal - we are so proud of you!”
Senior Harris Daud (Diamond Bar High) and junior Ryan Yim (Walnut High) were recognized as the 2020-2021 Student Board Representatives. Each month during their one-year term, the teens present comprehensive reports detailing school activities and accomplishments. This year’s presentations were virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Harris and Ryan’s videos have been a such a highlight of our Board meetings,” lauded Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor. “They are informative, fun, and they are both great presenters!”
Shown:
Evergreen Elementary fifth grader Marcus Ling received the Super Star Student Award on April 21. Shown with Board President Layla Abou-Taleb.
Evergreen Elementary parent volunteer Jennifer Chung was honored with the Partner in Education Award.
Ron Hockwalt Academies senior Flora Xu was lauded with the Super Star Student Award.
Parent volunteer Jeff Day received the Partner in Education Award for Ron Hockwalt Academies.
Diamond Bar High School seniors Harris Daud and Crystal Tsao were honored as the 2021 National Moot Court Competition Winners.
WVUSD Board Members recognize Harris Daud (Diamond Bar HS) and Ryan Yim (Walnut HS) as the 2020-2021 Student Board Representatives.