IYT Edison High School Impact Update: January 2026

Month in Review: Weaving the Brotherhood

This month was filled with purpose, pride, and powerful moments that truly showcased the heart of our Brotherhood. From deep, vulnerable conversations in our workshops to record-breaking academic turnarounds, the Edison High School Brothers are proving what happens when you commit to yourself and your community.

Brotherhood Culture

A large group of IYT brothers engaged in the “Yarn challenge” workshop during programming, building connection, trust, and unity as they strengthened their bond as a brotherhood.

This month’s workshop cultivated a profound sense of togetherness through a meaningful yarn activity. Each participant held a piece of yarn to symbolize our familial connection within the Brotherhood.

Each Brother shared something personal about themselves—moving far beyond surface-level conversations—and then tossed the yarn to someone they didn’t interact with often. This simple but powerful activity helped the boys learn each other’s names, stories, and experiences, visually strengthening bonds and building trust across the group.

Academic Achievement: Brother Alejandro

Brother Alejandro showing off his Honor Roll award.

Hard work, resilience, and determination were on full display this month as senior Alejandro reached a major academic milestone. He earned his very first honor roll certificate in his high school career!

Starting his freshman year with a 0.33 GPA, Alejandro committed himself to improving year after year, and he now proudly holds a 3.0 GPA. His journey is a powerful example of what focus, accountability, and dedication can achieve. As he prepares to pursue junior college, we celebrate not only his academic success but the massive mindset shift that made it possible.

Service & Expansion

Jonathan Sotelo, Gavin Soto, and Joey Williams pictured alongside Mr. J at the MLK event.

IYT Edison Brothers made a powerful impact during the Martin Luther King Jr. event at the Salvation Army, demonstrating their strong commitment to community service.

Highlight moment: Giving back wasn't our only community focus! We also hosted a highly successful 8th Grade Night, where our Brothers confidently connected with prospective members to share the vision of our program. A special shoutout goes to third-year Brother James Ulery for his exceptional efforts in recruiting new Brothers and helping strengthen our growing community!

Brother of the Month

Brother Alejandro

12th Grade

We couldn't just celebrate his grades without celebrating his character! Alejandro, a third-year Brother and our newest Junior Mentor, is our Brother of the Month.

Alejandro exemplifies outstanding character and dedication. Beyond his incredible academic turnaround, he is always ready to lend a hand in the IYT space. In fact, his experience has been so transformative that he has expressed a desire to continue working with the program next year as he pursues his studies at San Joaquin Delta College! We are so proud of his progress and excited to see the bright future ahead of him.

Upcoming Events

Name	Date & Time	Description
College Tour	3/14/2026	22 brothers will be heading to Sacramento State University
Spring Break	3/16 - 3/20/2026	School will be out of session for Spring Break

Leadership Update: Central Valley Board of Advisors

We're thrilled to announce our new Board of Advisors for IYT Central Valley! These dedicated individuals are deeply committed to moving the needle forward for young men of color.

Featured Advisor

Diane Ornelas

Social Services Case Manager, SUSD

"As a parent of a current IYT member, I have seen first-hand the impact the program makes on our youth."

Learn More

Program Directory & Schedules

Program Manager: Jazz Swanson

Phone: 209-904-2368

Email: jazz@improveyourtomorrow.org

Edison High School

Programming Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays Study Hall: Mondays & Wednesdays

Mentor & ParentEngagement

• Parent Engagement Sessions: 99

• Mentor Sessions: 125