Walnut Unified School District Celebrates Odyssey Kids National Victory

WALNUT, CA — The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees recognized outstanding students and community members during the September 21 meeting.

Evergreen Elementary students Ianna Lin, Annie Chen, Alexander Kuo, Alex Teng, Carrie Chen, William Qian, and Alexander Dollar - from the school’s Odyssey of the Mind team received Super Star Student awards.

Students designed and built a 14.9-gram “toothpick tower” structure made of balsa wood and glue that held 900 pounds.

“This is an amazing group of kids with creative minds!” said Principal Carolyn Wills.

The group swept a regional competition, then took 1st place in the state, and 2nd place in the nation. They finished the season with a 5th place victory at the world finals held at Iowa State University. Over 10,000 students and 830 teams competed at the huge international event.

Evergreen parent coaches Sam Lin, Jean Lin, and Natalya Dollar were acknowledged with Partner in Education Awards for the countless hours and resources that helped guide the Odyssey of the Mind team to the world-class achievement.

Walnut Staples, with store manager Candy Contreras, was lauded with the Partner in Education Award for Vejar Elementary.

“We’re very grateful for her generosity and support for the education of our children,” said Principal Jennifer De Anda.

Vejar Elementary 5th grader Jacob Lee received the final recognition during the Board meeting – the Super Star Student Award.

“Jacob exemplifies our Vejar Values with his strong character and compassion. He often helps a classmate with disabilities without being asked,” De Anda said.

“He’s a wonderful young man!”

Image, courtesy Walnut Unified School District: The WVUSD Board of Trustees honors Evergreen Elementary School’s Odyssey of the Mind team and coaches during the September 21 meeting. Shown with Principal Carolyn Wills and Board President Helen Hall.