Laker legend, UCLA dean celebrate tea at Newton Middle School in Hacienda Heights

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By Newton Middle School

On April 10, Newton Middle School, in Hacienda Heights, hosted their annual “Tea of celebration” that honored their GATE (Gifted and Talented) students for all of their hard work and dedication as they strive to give their best, academically, each day.

The school has 183 sixth through eighth grade students in the GATE program. This year’s tea included AC Green, former Los Angeles Lakers legend and Luz Herrera, Assistant Dean at UCLA’s School of Law.

As Green entered the school’s cafeteria, he was greeted by the students, staff,and parents who were all very eager to hear his message for the day. The students and staff sprung to life with excitement, cheering, and genuinely star-struck as he made his way to the front of the room.

Green spoke about building character, strong bodies, strong minds, winning and losing with dignity, teamwork and sacrifice. He concluded his motivational speech by giving a high five to a student, answering questions, and making sure he reiterated that the “decisions you make today, directly impact your tomorrow.”

Herrera, the event’s second keynote speaker, also shared with the students two powerful messages of how important it is to excel in both academics as well to develop social relationships with others. She also stressed the importance of selecting a peer group that will be a supportive and positive influence in one’s life.

Overall, it was a very fun, engaging, and educational event enjoyed by all, followed by an array of light refreshments, served by the staff.