IYT at Rio Americano High School Newsletter

June 2025

Month In Review

This past month at Rio Americana IYT was a powerful mix of heartfelt farewells and inspiring achievements, highlighted by an unforgettable graduation ceremony for our seniors: Lance Colon, Valentino Sandoval, Kaleo Chong, Dominic Madsen, and Quinn Wilson. These remarkable young men, also honored with certificates for their outstanding dedication and leadership, celebrated the culmination of their IYT journey. Further underscoring this success, Kaleo Chong proudly accepted his admission to CSU Sacramento, a milestone achieved through persistent hard work and earning a 3.2 GPA. Our commitment to holistic growth continued with an engaging self-care workshop, where brothers explored various wellness practices from aromatherapy to journaling to support a balanced lifestyle. And embodying the forward-looking spirit of our program, Charles White was recognized as Brother of the Month, inspiring everyone with his focused, college-bound mindset and uplifting positive energy.

Celebrating Our Graduates

Seniors received awards at Senior Awards Night. IYT brothers came together to celebrate graduating seniors.

Congratulations to brothers Lance Colon, Valentino Sandoval, Kaleo Chomg, Dominic Madsen, and Quinn Wilson for receiving certificates in recognition of their dedication to IYT. Their consistent participation, leadership, and positive presence have made a lasting impact on their peers and the program. They truly embody what it means to uplift, inspire, and lead as IYT brothers.

We had the incredible honor of celebrating our senior IYT brothers at a powerful and unforgettable graduation ceremony! This event wasn't just about marking the end of their high school journey—it was a tribute to their growth, leadership, and resilience throughout their time in IYT.

The celebration was filled with heartfelt moments, roaring laughter, and genuine joy as we reflected on their achievements and the memories they’ve made. From academic milestones to personal breakthroughs, each brother’s story was a reminder of the strength and unity within our community.

A huge congratulations to (left to right): Lance Colon, Valentino Sandoval, Quinn Wilson, Kaleo Chong, and Dominic Madsen.

Academic Achievement Spotlight

Kaleo Chong is proudly showcasing his stinger spirit as he announces he will be attending CSU Sacramento.

Kaleo Chong has officially accepted his offer to CSU Sacramento! This grand milestone is a testament to Kaleo’s perseverance, determination, and unwavering dedication.

With a vision set on attending a four-year institution, Kaleo put in the work—countless study hall sessions, sharp focus, and the ability to balance it all. His efforts paid off, and he now holds an impressive 3.2 GPA, reflecting his strong academic drive.

As he prepares to embark on this exciting journey, Kaleo has already set his sights on the next goal: earning a place on the Dean’s List his freshman year.

We’re so proud of you, Kaleo. Your journey is just beginning—keep striving, keep believing, and keep rising.

Congratulations, Hornet! 🐝📚💪 #StingersUp #CSUSBound #FutureDeanListHonoree

Workshop Spotlight

Ms.Yvonne is sitting with brother Lance and brother Ali while engaging in our creative expressions activity, coloring different printouts.

During a recent programming workshop focused on self-care, we created five designated areas in the room, each offering a different self-care activity: aromatherapy, journaling, meditation, physical activity, and creative expression. The purpose of this workshop was to help our brothers explore and practice preventative measures that support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Through active participation, they were able to draw meaningful connections between self-care practices and overall well-being, gaining tools to manage stress and maintain their mental, emotional, and physical health.

Brother of the Month

Charles White

11th Grade

Charles is a driven and focused young man whose positive energy instantly uplifts the atmosphere the moment he steps into the IYT space. During a recent study hall, I noticed several college lanyards attached to his backpack. When I asked about them, he shared, “I have these to motivate me and remind me of my goals.” That simple yet powerful statement affirmed what is already evident in his actions and mindset—Charles exemplifies what it means to be college-bound.

Program Info

Mentor & Parent Engagement

Parent Engagement Sessions:	63
Mentor Sessions:	63