September  12, 2016 

WALNUT, CA--Ron Hockwalt Academies (RHA) is creating a learning environment where students can build hope-filled lives.

Through the H.O.P.E. - Heart, Optimism, Personal Responsibility, and Excellence - values program, now in its second year, teens are experiencing the correlation between hope and achievement.

Principal Dr. Donna Hunter introduced the plan that shows how hope, engagement, and well-being are conduits for success (Lopez, 2014).

During a Hope and Freedom assembly held on September 2, students demonstrated what H.O.P.E. looks like in the classroom, break room, lunch area, school office, and community.

“If you see someone sitting alone in the lunch area, sit with them. Be friendly to everyone,” said Mira Del Rosario.

The teens are encouraged to show their H.O.P.E. by being optimistic, honest, respectful, determined, and to strive for excellence.

“Students and staff have collaborated to establish a foundation for our school’s culture,” said grade level coordinator Andrea Garcia.

Representatives from the Army National Guard encouraged students to utilize the H.O.P.E. values in their daily lives.

“Keep looking to the future,” Sergeant First Class Bradley Logo. “If you don’t know what you want to do right now, don’t give up!”

“Achieve and build yourself up – whether it’s math, basketball, or writing,” said Army Specialist Hector Ramirez.

“If you can’t write a paper, go to the writing center or get help from a teacher. And surround yourself with positive people!”

“Give 110% of yourself and you’ll reap the rewards,” added Logo. “It might not happen overnight, but you’ll see the difference.”

During the assembly, RHA celebrated students who demonstrated H.O.P.E. values during a raffle drawing.  A special lunch was donated by Chipotle Mexican Grill in Walnut.

By Kelli Gile, Office of Community Resources

Shown:

Ron Hockwalt Academies students join team building games games during Hope and Freedom assembly. 

National Guard representatives encourage Ron Hockwalt Academies students to demonstrate H.O.P.E. attributes.