February 12, 2024
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
WALNUT, CA—Walnut Valley USD continued the longstanding tradition of honoring excellence during the 25th Annual Cornerstone Awards on February 8.
A dozen outstanding classified (non-teaching) staff members were celebrated for going the “extra mile” to support students, teachers, and schools.
The Personnel Commission’s monthly Cornerstone Awards, established in 1999, recognize classified staff members for the pivotal role they play in the District.
About 750 classified employees perform a wide range of essential work including making sure kids have healthy meals, safe transportation on school busses, and creating a positive learning environment.
Congratulations to the following 2023 Cornerstone Award winners: Christina Tse, Instructional Aide II Bilingual/Bicultural - Westhoff Elementary; Gladys Villa, Nutrition Services Worker III - Nutrition Services; Laura Morris, Instructional Aide II Special Education - C.J. Morris Elementary; Kendra Wilson, School Administrative Assistant - Maple Hill Elementary; Liz Lopez, Registrar - Walnut High School; Sunny Garcia, Database Specialist – Technology; Anna Gonzalez, Instructional Aide III Special Education - Castle Rock Elementary; Pia Munoz, School Administrative Assistant -Suzanne Middle School; Kathleen Moyer, Noon Aide - Chaparral Middle School; Sandra Davaloz, Instructional Aide II Special Education - Evergreen Elementary; Jolina McCurry, Secretary II - Diamond Bar High School; and Xavier Chavez, Maintenance Worker III HVAC - Maintenance & Operations.
“Classified employees are truly the foundation of our organization!” lauded Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
“You twelve are the shining stars this year and we appreciate you!”
Twenty-year paraeducator Anna Gonzalez was named the 2023 Classified Employee of the Year at the culmination of the ceremony.
Rain or shine, you can find Anna greeting students as they enter campus with a warm smile and words of affirmation.
“There is no doubt that Anna puts “Kids First” with her endless dedication to students and school,” said Elementary Learning Specialist Frances Baird.
Anna’s love of her craft and her school is evident in the many ways she extends a helping hand, maintains a positive attitude, and connects with all students.
The Cornerstone Awards was hosted by Human Resources Assistant Superintendent Dr. Diane Perez and Director Dr. Seth Bond at the Holiday Inn in Diamond Bar.
A talented Diamond Bar High School string quartet under the direction of Steve Acciani and Marie Santos provided entertainment during the event.
Honorees received engraved awards, gift cards, and certificates of recognition from local officials.
“I’m so greatly honored!” said Anna after being distinguished with the Classified Employee of the Year award.
“Walnut Valley is the most amazing school district to work at with love, support, and compassion for all our kids at every school site.”
A special thanks to the following sponsors for their generous support: Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, Massage Envy, Schools First Federal Credit Union, McGriff Insurance Services, Walnut Valley Administrators’ Association, School Portraits by Adams Photography, Chick-fil-A, and Yogurtland.
Shown:
Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor congratulates Anna Gonzales named the 2023 Classified Employee of the Year.
A Class Act! Walnut Valley USD honors the 2023 Cornerstone Award winners on February 8.