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Walnut Avenue Elementary

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About Us

Established in 1966, Walnut Ave. Elementary was built with proceeds from an $8 million bond issued to accommodate the growing population in Chino. The school was led by Principal Charles Stortz and welcomed 685 enrolled students. 

Our outstanding staff happily supports students in transitional kindergarten through sixth grade and emphasize a culture that focuses on universal achievement and collaboration where all students THRIVE!

 

A school logo featuring a wolf head and the words 'Walnut Home of the Wolves'.

OFFICE HOURS:

7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Monday – Friday (excluding holidays)

 

NEWSLETTER

DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP PROCEDURES

 

Our Purpose and Principles

At the heart of our organization lies a commitment to purpose, guided by a clear mission, an inspiring vision for the future, and core values that define who we are and drive everything we do.

As a Professional Learning Community, we will: 

  • promote positive community participation and facilitate continuous communication that ensures active parent involvement through school functions.
  • provide a safe and orderly school site as it adheres to discipline that is firm, fair and consistent.
  • collaboratively establish, maintain and accomplish high expectations through open ended creative thinking in academics and behavior.
  • model and provide positive reinforcement for good moral conduct and exhibiting the 6 Pillars of Character.

Walnut is a place of excellence where children can recognize and achieve full potential in their academic, creative, personal, and moral development.

  • As a Professional Learning Community, we will: 

    • promote positive community participation and facilitate continuous communication that ensures active parent involvement through school functions.
    • provide a safe and orderly school site as it adheres to discipline that is firm, fair and consistent.
    • collaboratively establish, maintain and accomplish high expectations through open ended creative thinking in academics and behavior.
    • model and provide positive reinforcement for good moral conduct and exhibiting the 6 Pillars of Character.
  • Walnut is a place of excellence where children can recognize and achieve full potential in their academic, creative, personal, and moral development.

Walnut Administration

Chino Valley Unified School District logo featuring a sun over an open book.

PRINCIPAL DENISE GONZALES

Welcome to Walnut Avenue Elementary...Home of the Wolves!

It is truly an honor to serve as the principal of this incredible school. Now in my third year at Walnut, I continue to be inspired by the dedication and sense of community that defines our school. Walnut has a rich history, and I’m excited to work alongside our amazing staff, students, families, and community members to build on our past successes and create even more opportunities for every child to thrive.

I bring with me 21 years of experience in education, all proudly served in Chino Valley, including 17 years as a special education teacher working with students with autism and 4 years in administration, most recently as Assistant Principal at Magnolia Junior High.

As a proud CVUSD former student, this community holds a special place in my heart. I’ve seen firsthand how deeply Chino is committed to meeting the needs of every child, and I’m proud to carry on that commitment in my role as principal and give back to the community that helped shape who I am.

Outside of school, my husband and I are proud parents of three amazing children. Our oldest is attending the University of Alabama, our middle child is starting at Cal State Fullerton, and our youngest is beginning high school. As a family, we love watching sports—especially cheering on my favorite football team, the San Francisco 49ers!

At Walnut, my goal is for every student and family to feel connected, supported, and valued. We are more than just a school; we are a PACK!

 

Sincerely,

Denise Gonzales

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL JUNG CHOI

Dear Walnut Family,

Welcome to a brand-new school year! I hope you and your loved ones enjoyed a restful, joyful, and safe summer. I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve the Walnut Avenue Elementary community as your Assistant Principal.

It is with great excitement that I begin this journey alongside our amazing Principal, Mrs. Gonzales, and our dedicated staff as we continue to nurture meaningful learning experiences for all of our students. Together, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every child can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

As we step into the 2025–2026 school year, we look forward to partnering with you. Your involvement, support, and collaboration are essential to our students’ success. Staying connected and informed helps us create the strong, united community that defines Walnut.

Please know that my door is always open. If you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, I welcome the opportunity to connect with you.

Let’s work together to make this school year filled with growth, celebration, and unstoppable Walnut Pride!

 

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

Jung Choi

Chino Valley Unified School District logo featuring a sun over an open book.

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all students THRIVE!