October 23, 2023
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
Walnut Valley USD Trustees Celebrate School Stars
WALNUT, CA—In keeping with tradition, the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees showcased exemplary students and parent volunteers during the October 18 meeting.
Westhoff Elementary fifth grader Chloe Ma received the Super Star Student Award. Chloe is a remarkable young lady who inspires others to make good choices by modeling those behaviors. Because of her strong sense of character, Chloe has served as a Westhoff Shine Ambassador, a student leadership position that helps others SHINE at Westhoff – to Spread kindness, Have heart, Inspire others, Never give up, and Encourage teamwork. Chloe comes to school happy and eager to learn every day. Her enthusiasm is absolutely contagious. “The teachers, staff, and I are incredibly proud of Chloe and the role model she is for our school community,” said Principal Rosa Northcott. “Chloe truly exemplifies what it means to SHINE at Westhoff!”
Parent volunteers Kit and Jennifer Leung were recognized with the Partner in Education Award. In early 2020, the Leungs began working on the garden behind the Kindergarten building at Westhoff. They spent their time cultivating the space and even brought in worms to do mini Farm Unit lessons for Kindergarteners. Around that time, the Kinder team began incubating 24 fertilized chicken eggs - just three days before the pandemic shut down on Friday, March 13, 2020. The Leungs stepped in and offered to take the incubators and hatch the eggs. Jennifer, who was not familiar with Instagram, figured out a way to make a private account for Kinder parents and hosted livestreams when the eggs began hatching. The Leungs brought the chicks back to Westhoff at the end of the school year for the “Drive-by Good-bye” and eventually found homes for the 17 chicks. “The Leungs truly have the most giving hearts and we are so lucky to have them in our Westhoff family,” Principal Northcott said.
South Pointe Middle School parent Diana Giannone was lauded with the Partner in Education Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication within the community. “As a co-president of the Community Club, her impact through the Panther Pride campaign is nothing short of remarkable, having successfully raised over $35,000, showcasing her excellent organizational and fundraising skills,” shared Principal Dr. Matt Brummett. Diana also generously devotes her time and efforts to support the school’s theater and choir programs, illustrating her passion for the arts and commitment to enhancing cultural and creative endeavors within the community. Additionally, her lineage, being the niece of Silvia Mendes, a pivotal figure in the landmark civil rights case Mendes vs. Westminster adds a profound and inspiring dimension to her selection. “It reflects a legacy of advocacy and social justice, demonstrating her potential to further the values of equity and inclusion within our community,” Dr. Brummett said.
South Pointe 8th grader Dylan Crawford was recognized with the Super Star Student award. Dylan has showcased a steady commitment to improving his academics, resulting in continuous growth in achievement, a testament to his diligence and dedication. Not only is he a stellar student academically, but his character and positive attitude make him an absolute joy to have in our school community. Dylan also excels in the realm of athletics, showcasing his talent and dedication on the field as football team quarterback and basketball point guard. Furthermore, he demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and pride as a vital member of the KSPS student news broadcast team, where he continuously shines as a beacon of enthusiasm and dedication. “Dylan is the epitome of a well-rounded student, embodying the values we hold dear at our school, and we are immensely proud to have him as a part of our community!” Dr. Brummett said.
Shown:
The WVUSD Board of Trustees honored Westhoff Elementary 5th grader Chloe Ma with the Super Star Student Award during the October 18 meeting.
Westhoff Elementary parent volunteers Kit and Jennifer Leung were lauded with the Partners in Education Award during the October 18 meeting.
South Pointe Middle School 8th grader Dylan Crawford received the Super Star Student Award during the October 18 Board meeting.
South Pointe Middle School parent leader Diana Giannone was spotlighted with the Partner in Education Award on October 18.