IYT at Hong Kingston June Newsletter

June 2025

Month In Review

This past month at IYT at Hong Kingston, we celebrated our graduating brothers in a joyful, family-filled ceremony and supported student well-being with our innovative "Mental Health Olympics" workshop. The spirit of resilience and achievement that defined the month was perfectly embodied by Joshua Stocker, who earned a rare dual honor as Brother of the Month and our Academic Achievement spotlight for winning the prestigious Hazelton Award and his acceptance into Saint Mary’s High School.

Honoring a Milestone, Celebrating the Future

Mentor Laronn and his graduating 8th graders.

What an unforgettable graduation ceremony at Hong Kingston! The event was filled with joy, laughter, and celebration as we honored our amazing IYT brothers and all they’ve accomplished this year.

Brother Bishop and his parents during our graduation celebration!

We had delicious catered food, plenty of fun, and an incredible turnout of parents who showed up to support and celebrate their students. The room was filled with pride and powerful moments of reflection. Watching families cheer on their grads made the night even more special. Congratulations to our graduates—you made it, and we’re so proud!

Resilience and Excellence

Joshua Stocker is walking into Great America for his 8th-grade field trip.

It is with immense pride that we honor Joshua Stocker with a rare dual recognition as both IYT’s Brother of the Month and our Academic Achievement Spotlight honoree. Joshua’s story is a powerful testament to strength, perseverance, and character.

Joshua proudly displaying his award.

Despite facing more challenges than most as a foster youth, he has consistently shown unwavering determination, kindness, and humility. He is always respectful, willing to help others, and his positive attitude uplifts everyone around him, making him a true role model within our brotherhood.

This incredible character is the foundation for his academic excellence. His relentless focus and hard work have earned him one of Stockton Unified’s highest honors: the prestigious Hazelton Award. Furthermore, in recognition of his outstanding grades, Joshua has been accepted into the highly respected Saint Mary’s High School. He proves that resilience can overcome adversity, and his success is an inspiring reminder of what is possible when you refuse to give up. Congratulations, Joshua, on these exceptional and well-deserved honors!

Workshop Spotlight

IYT student Valentino faces off against campus security monitor, Felix. The winner got to ask the runner-up a question of their choice pertaining to mental health.

At Hong Kingston, our students got to participate in an exciting and impactful workshop: the Mental Health Olympics! Each station was designed to challenge not only their athletic ability but also spark important conversations around mental health and emotional well-being. Students had a blast, and even school staff joined in on the fun!

Program Info

Mentor & Parent Engagement

Parent Engagement Sessions:	94
Mentor Sessions:	96