IYT Rio Americano High School Impact Update: February 2026
- Mar 16
- 3 min read
Month in Review: Shared Responsibility & Leadership
February at Rio Americano High School was defined by stepping up for the community and for each other. From honoring Dr. King’s legacy to participating in powerful workshops about sharing emotional burdens, our young men are demonstrating what true leadership and Brotherhood look like in action.
Leading by Example: The Brotherhood Creed & Honoring Dr. King
Leadership and community pride were on full display as our IYT Brothers stepped up to represent the values of the program this month! Brother Javier, serving in his role as a Junior Mentor, has been demonstrating strong leadership by leading the IYT Brotherhood Creed and daily affirmations. By confidently guiding the room, projecting his voice, and encouraging participation, Brother Javier helps set a positive tone for the day.
Our Brothers also participated in a community event honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting on his message of unity, service, and courage. Surrounded by community members of all ages, the experience served as a powerful reminder that Dr. King’s dream continues through the actions we take in our own neighborhoods, strengthening our commitment to stand up for positive change.
Carrying the Load Together: January & February Workshop Series
Our Brothers began the year engaging in workshops designed to strengthen habits, sharpen direction, and build emotional resilience.
Month | Workshop Focus Areas |
January: Habits & Direction | The Grind Transfers, Consistency > Motivation, Direction > Pressure, Small Moves = Real Progress, Stay the Course, and Looking Ahead. |
February: Purpose & Power | Trust the Process, The Mask We Wear, Purpose Through Pressure, Media, Masculinity & Emotional Health, Circle of Trust, and the Wellness Wall. |
Deep Dive: Circle of Trust - Who Helps You Stay in the Game
During this workshop, Brothers participated in an interactive activity to highlight the importance of community support. The session began with one participant carrying a heavily weighted backpack. As the backpack was passed around the circle, items were gradually removed and distributed among the group, immediately lightening the load.
The backpack symbolized the challenges and stress people often carry on their own. By sharing the items, the group demonstrated how collective support makes difficult situations easier to manage. Brothers then wrote down activities that help them protect their mental health, sparking a meaningful discussion about coping strategies. The workshop reinforced a vital idea: everyone carries weight at times, but no one has to carry it alone.
Academic Achievement: Brother Jaylani
Brother Jaylani is staying focused and determined as he works to maintain his A–G eligibility during his sophomore year! Currently passing 5 out of his 6 classes, Brother Jaylani has shown immense effort and responsibility in keeping up with his coursework. He understands the importance of maintaining his grades to meet college admission requirements and has expressed a clear commitment to reaching those goals. We are so proud to see him taking his education seriously as he works toward his future!
Brother of the Month
Brother Javier
10th Grade
Brother Javier stands out as a natural leader within the Brotherhood, making him a strong choice to serve as one of our Junior Mentors. He takes this role seriously and consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to the program.
Brother Javier has a natural ability to connect with others. One of his greatest strengths is his ability to uplift those around him through humor and laughter, helping others momentarily step away from the challenges they may be facing. His leadership, combined with his genuine care for others, allows him to serve as a strong role model. We are incredibly proud to recognize him as our Brother of the Month!
Upcoming Events
Name | Date & Time | Description/Sign-up Link |
IYT College Tour - CSU Sacramento | 3/21/2026 12:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 600 Jed Smith Dr, Sacramento, CA 95819 | Our brothers will tour California State University, Sacramento, discovering firsthand the academic programs, dorms, and student life. Students will gain insights into admissions, course options, and campus opportunities, helping them see how CSUS could fit into their long-term plans and college aspirations. |
Program Directory & Schedules
Program Manager: Marybeth Carranza Phone: 916-730-1310
Rio Americano High School
Programming Schedule: Mondays & Wednesdays (3:40 - 5:00pm) Study Hall: Mondays & Wednesdays
Parent & Mentor Engagement
Number of Parent Engagement Sessions: | 220 |
Number of Mentor Sessions: | 190 |