View Cornerstone Awards at: https://youtu.be/dhzHEliUMcM.

February 17, 2022

By Kelli Gile, Office of Community Resources

 WALNUT, CA—Walnut Valley USD continued the tradition of honoring excellence during this week’s annual “A Class Act” Cornerstone Awards.

The ceremony celebrating a dozen outstanding classified employees premiered virtually due to the pandemic on February 16.

The Personnel Commission’s monthly Cornerstone Awards, established in 1999, recognize classified (non-teaching) staff members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in providing outstanding service to the District and community.

These essential staff members feed and transport students, nurture their minds, support teachers and administrators, and create a positive learning environment.

Congratulations to the following 2021 Cornerstone Award winners: Gaby Manganiello, Office Assistant – Collegewood Elementary; Cheri Taing, Office Assistant – C.J. Morris Elementary; Efren Del Mundo, Custodian I – Evergreen Elementary; Su-San Lotz, Civic Center Supervisor – Maintenance, Operations, Transportation, and Facilities; Chris Koh, Support Specialist – Technology; Anna Amezcua, School Administrative Assistant – Quail Summit Elementary; Lucille Robles, Nutrition Services Worker I – Vejar Elementary; Jacob Walter, Instructional Aide III Special Education – Suzanne Middle School; Connie Han, Accounting Assistant II – Child Care; Gina Nemeth, Morning Aide –Castle Rock Elementary; Lori Perales, Instructional Aide II Special Education –Walnut High School; and Michelle Bagwell, Health Clerk – South Pointe Middle School.

The pre-recorded recognition event included personal tributes and congratulatory messages from District officials.

“A cornerstone is defined as the keystone that holds an entire structure together and it reminds me of our classified employees,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

“They are the people that provide a foundational support system for our students, staff, and schools.”

“And tonight, we get to recognize some of the very best of our wonderful classified employees - our Cornerstone Award winners!”

Lori Perales was named the 2021 Classified Employee of the Year during a surprise announcement at Walnut High School.

“I am so thankful to be working in Walnut Valley USD and have loved each and every grade level to which I've been assigned,” Lori shared.

“From being a one-on-one (aide) to my current assignment, it's been an awesome learning experience for me and hopefully for my students as well,” she noted.

“Of course, my current assignment is my absolute favorite with all of my math classes!”

For the past 17 years, Lori has provided exceptional support to Walnut High students through her dedication to their academic success.

“Most importantly, Lori has a big heart and goes above and beyond for students,” shared nominator Walnut High Instructional Dean Dr. Robin Perez.

“She’s definitely an ‘All In’ employee!”

The virtual recognition ceremony was hosted by Human Resources Assistant Superintendent Dr. Diane Perez and Director Dr. Seth Bond.

Honorees received special deliveries with engraved awards symbolizing the pivotal role they play in the District, gift cards, and certificates of recognition at their schools and offices.

A special thanks to the following sponsors for their generous support: Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, Schools First Federal Credit Union, School Portraits by Adams Photography, Chick-fil-A, Chaffey Federal Credit Union, McGriff Insurance Services, and Walnut Valley Administrator’s Association.

The Cornerstone Awards recognition program may be viewed at: https://youtu.be/dhzHEliUMcM.

Shown:

A Class Act! Lori Perales was named the 2021 Classified Employee of the Year during the virtual Cornerstone Awards on Feb. 16. 

Surprise Announcement!  Walnut High Instructional Aide II Special Education Lori Perales was named the 2021 Classified Employee of the Year.