June 5, 2023

By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources

WALNUT, CA—In keeping with tradition, the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees recognized exemplary students and parents during the May 17 meeting.

Diamond Bar High School senior Marcus Hsieh was lauded with the Super Star Student Award. Marcus graduated with a 4.0 GPA and honored as a valedictorian during the May 25 commencement ceremony. He took 20 AP/Honors courses and completed seven college-level classes during high school. Marcus is a National Merit Scholar who will be attending Stanford University in the fall. He studied Russian last summer traveling to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, earned the rank of Eagle Scout, participated in the WASC Student Advisory Council, and tutored students from Taiwan. “Marcus is a great person, he is humble, and an inspiration to all of us!” reported Grade Level Coordinator Rich Gonzales. “Marcus, it is an honor to celebrate you tonight!” said Principal Dr. Reuben Jones.

Magnificent 7 President Yara Sands was honored with the Partner in Education Award for outstanding leadership at Diamond Bar High School. Yara has provided tremendous volunteer support and participation during monthly Mag 7 parent meetings, Rodeo Round-Up community event and fundraiser, Back-to-School Night, Branding Iron parade and tailgate party, staff holiday celebration, Science and Instrumental Music Building ribbon-cutting ceremonies, open house, and staff appreciation luncheon. “Any event, basically, Yara has been there to celebrate!” Dr.  Jones said.  “Yara, you are a true super star! Our theme this year is Raising the Bar and you’ve done that for us!”

Walnut High School senior Ryann McGhee was recognized with the Super Star Student Award. Ryann is an outstanding individual who has made a significant impact both in and out of the classroom. She is a dedicated member of the Color Guard, Band, Student Think Tank, which showcases her passion for music and problem-solving. As a member of the Band, Ryann plays in the orchestra and has performed in many concerts. As the captain of the Color Guard team, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills and brought home the first Gold Medal in Walnut Color Guard history. Her exceptional work ethic and dedication to her studies have earned her a place at Chapman University, where she will be majoring in music. Despite her numerous achievements, Ryann remains humble, positive, and always willing to lend a helping hand to those around her. “We are fortunate to have Ryan as part of our school community, and I have no doubt that she will continue to achieve great things in her future endeavors,” said Principal Dr. Ryan Maine.

Walnut High School parent volunteer Rigo Rojas received the Partner in Education Award for contributions to the school community. Most notably, Rigo takes pictures of student-athletes for a majority of teams, during both home and away games. He has traveled to CIF games, such as Van Nuys and Palos Verdes, to capture the special moments. Families always look forward to the posting of his photos on the athletic website so they can share their memories with their friends and families on social media. What sets Rigo apart is that he never asks for recognition or charges for his services! Rigo's selfless dedication to the school community embodies the spirit of giving back. “On behalf of Walnut High, I want to express our deepest appreciation for all the work Rigo has done for us,” Dr. Maine said.

In addition, Walnut High School CIF Champion Football Team; Walnut High School California State Wrestling Champions Anaya Falcon and Ronnie Ramirez; CIF SS Girls Golf Champion Ashley Yun; and Student Board Representatives Emily Qi and Kaleb Dy received special recognitions during the meeting.

Shown:

Walnut Valley USD Trustees honor Diamond Bar High senior Marcus Hsieh with Super Star Student Award on May 17. 

Diamond Bar High parent volunteer Yara Sands was recognized for outstanding service with the Partner in Education Award during May 17 Board Meeting. 

Trustees present Walnut High senior Ryann McGhee with Super Star Student Award on May 17. 

Walnut High dedicated parent volunteer Rigo Rojas honored with Partner in Education Award. 

First in School History! Walnut High CIF Champion Football Team honored during May 17 Board Meeting. 

Walnut High School Athletic Director Jerry Person and Football Coach Eric Peralta recognized with CIF Champion Football Team. 

Back-to-Back Champion! Walnut High School California State Wrestling Champion Anaya Falcon recognized during May 17 Meeting. 

CIF SS Girls Golf Champion Ashley Yun honored during May 17 Board Meeting.