NEWS Walnut Valley Unified School District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 880 S. Lemon Avenue
February 20, 2014 Walnut, CA 91789
Board Recognizes South Pointe Star Student and Partner in Education
WALNUT, CA— 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 lauded with the Partner in Education Award. He is a WVUSD graduate and an orthodontist in the Claremont area.
He stepped forward to transform a shy, withdrawn student with a serious dental problem to a confident, successful young man who is not afraid to smile.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, his 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.
“In the midst of Panther Country, we have remarkable students who have persevered and accomplished great things on a personal level,” Arzola said.
Angels’ family suffered a great loss during elementary school. When Angel entered South Pointe, it was a new beginning 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.
Shown:
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. Also shown with family members.
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. Also shown with family members and teacher Kathryn Fujihara.