WALNUT, CA—The Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees recognized stellar students and community members from South Pointe and Suzanne Middle Schools during the November 18 meeting.
South Pointe Middle School 8th grader Erick Davis received the Super Star Student Award. He has distinguished himself by maintaining a 3.45 GPA while participating in Track and Cross Country teams. Erick is kindhearted and has the ability to light up the room with his bright smile and sense of humor.
“Erick has worked hard through life’s challenges and we are proud of his resilience, self-discipline, integrity, and teamwork. He is a fine example of Panther Pride and we are grateful to be able to honor him tonight,” said Principal Dr. Susan Arzola.
Deputy Aaron Scheller was recognized with the Partner in Education Award for going above the call of duty for South Pointe students and staff. He provides first-responder assistance during all crisis calls and continuously works on developing relationships with students and the community. Deputy Scheller is involved in Career Day, Run-Hide-Fight staff training, Digital Citizenship classes, and an annual Toy Drive. Last year, he rallied members of the Fire, Sheriff’s Department and local media to join a Walk-A-Thon that raised $5,000 to benefit children’s cancer. He personally welcomed students to the track with lights, sirens, and high fives.
“Deputy Scheller’s heart, professionalism, and love for the job are apparent, He is not only helping our school community, he is an inspiration to our students,” Dr. Arzola lauded.
Suzanne Middle School 8th grader Talisa Perez received the Super Star Student Award. Whether in-person or on Zoom, Talisa’s bright personality draws you in. She is an outstanding ASB President, serves as the SMS representative on the [Super-Nintendo Council], and recently hosted a four-day Tutorial Challenge that involved coordinating emails, Zoom links, and Kahoot for 40 kids from all three grade levels. Teachers report that during Distance Learning, Talisa is the first to unmute with an answer and is always on screen and engaged, nodding her head and smiling.
“Our situation may be unprecedented, but Talisa has not let that stop her from making the most of her 8th grade year and that is what makes her a total star student!” said Principal Dr. Amy Smith.
Partner in Education recipient Lindsay Miamoto has been part of the Walnut Valley school community since the early 2000’s. Lindsay was always a supportive father, there for his two children at pick-up or after school sports and activities. When his son, Michael, passed away in 2012 after a long battle with leukemia, Lindsay continued that support through his non-profit organization, Live4MTM providing scholarships at both Suzanne and Walnut High School in memory of his son. Students embodying Michael's characteristics of kindness; respect for self, others, and community; and the ability to live life to the fullest, apply for the annual scholarship. In addition to the love and selflessness he shows in keeping his son's memory alive, Lindsay also shows his love to the staff at Suzanne frequently dropping in to check-in on teachers and office staff, always with some sort of goodies to share.
“Lindsay Miyamoto has made such an impact on the lives of so many throughout our district, and it is with so much gratitude that we present him with this award tonight,” said Dr. Smith.
Shown:
South Pointe Middle School 8th grader Erick Davis receives the Super Star Student Award during Nov. 18 Board Meeting.
Board President Larry Redinger recognizes Deputy Aaron Scheller with the Partner in Education Award for South Pointe Middle School.
Suzanne Middle School 8th grader Talisa Perez receives the Super Star Student Award.
Lindsay Miamoto receives the Partner in Education Award on November 18.