Winters Express Graduation Edition: June 7, 2023

Class of 2023 students head toward next journey with resilience, dedication

By Jacob Hoffman Express staff writer

When 2022 ended, many of us simply stacked it onto an ever-rising series of years that we’ve retrospectively looked back on and described as “hard” or “difficult. For the Class of 2023, their entire high school experience was made up of those kinds of years, beginning with their freshman year being drastically upended in March 2020.

But for Winters High School counselor Marcella Heredia, this cohort cannot — and should not — be defined only by the hardships they endured.

“I know that for years to come when we look back and reflect on a graduating class, we’ll probably automatically think of something COVID-related and look at what year of their schooling was impacted,” Heredia said. “But, I think it’s important to look at all the other stuff the classes have experienced besides COVID.

“Don’t get me wrong, COVID was a drag, but we got some pretty resilient students in our district that bounce back like no other,” Heredia continued.

Heredia said she hopes this class can take away more from their experience than just the difficult parts, but the importance of resilience and dedica-

tion in the face of those difficulties.

“I think that the class of 2023 leaves Winters High School with some good life lessons,” Heredia said.

A key lesson Heredia stressed was the importance of embracing change, transitions and farewells, as while at WHS “they said welcome and goodbye to 17 different teachers.”

“While 17 seems like a lot of teachers coming and going over four years at Winters High School, I think it’s a good lesson,” Heredia noted, “They will be say-

ing welcome and goodbye to future teachers and coworkers for the rest of their lives-I think it’s something we never really think of unless we really have to.”

But along with endings, there are beginnings. According to Heredia, this cohort of students “was also able to share some big moments with the staff of Winters High School” including being able to congratulate teachers and welcome their new babies and teachers getting married.

Heredia also noted that

“the class of 2023 got to see the inclusion of a full-time on-site mental health clinician from RISE available to them on campus Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.”   The ink of the past is dry the moment it’s written, and sometimes in life, we find ourselves forced to walk down paths we couldn’t avoid, and it can make us feel helpless and demoralized. The Class of 2023, like all of us, could neither predict nor stop the COVID-19 pandemic from inexorably altering their lives.  But they didn’t let it, or anything else, stop them from keeping their heads up and seeing their high school experience through with more strength than could have been expected of them, returning to school in March 2021 and finishing out the next two years to get to this point. As Heredia described, the class of 2023 proved to themselves and to the community that “our lives as we know it can practically be put on pause for nearly a year, but that we do bounce back.”

EXPRESS

WHS graduates of 2023 toss their mortar boards into the moonlit sky.

Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express

Seniors put skills, knowledge to the test through SAE projects

By Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

One of the many life-changing, learning opportunities a Winters High School student can indulge in is joining the local FFA chapter. Part of that whole experience includes the completion of a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project which gave the graduating seniors an opportunity to showcase their work ethic and dedication to their agricultural education.

Kayla Mederos, WHS ag teacher and FFA advisor, said the FFA education model is broken down into three components with each circle representing a different requirement in the ag program. Mederos said at WHS they refer to it as the hand, the head and the heart.

The classroom instruction is the head, the FFA leadership opportunities make up the heart and the SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experiences) projects offer the experiential, handson learning opportunities that make up the hands aspect.

SAE projects — akin to Senior Capstone Projects — are a showcase of a student’s passion, work ethic and the knowledge gained in and out of the classroom.

Mederos said students must complete these projects outside of class time, and according to the California Department of Education, a student’s grade can be impacted by their SAE project. “For example, 20

percent of their grade must come from participation in FFA events and having an SAE project. And it’s up to local chapters to decide how they want to divide up that 20 percent. Here in Winters, we split it up 10

and 10. So, 10 percent of a student’s grade is dependent on an SAE project,” Mederos said. “A lot of students double dip and use an SAE project as their Senior Capstone. They just go above and beyond to transform

their SAE project into something else.”

Mederos shared about some of the more notable senior SAE projects from some of this year’s seniors. FFA President, Ava Skinner harvested cherries from the tree at her house before processing and creating her own cherry jam which she jarred, labeled and sold. Skinner also had a placement SAE project working for Ciarlo Fruit and Nut.

Kianna Miller had a sheep breeding project for three years and also raised two market lambs for the Yolo County Fair. On top of that, Miller also worked at Rainwater Ranch flower farm while also growing a patch of dahlias on her family’s property.

Jose Martinez raised pigs for the Yolo County Fair for two years and worked hand-in-hand with Miller to create the FFA store where the students’ products would be sold. Martinez also worked solely in the produce section of Lorenzo’s Town and Country Market — which counts as part of his SAE project.

Meanwhile, Luke Dondero was in charge of the ag site’s pumpkin patch this year. According to Mederos, Dondero not only donated pumpkins to the preschools and

kindergarten classes but also organized a kindergarten agriculture day where the students came out to experience activities at the ag site and picked pumpkins themselves. Alongside that, Dondero had a placement SAE project where he worked in tractor repair and maintenance for Mariani Nut Company.

Zander Shane — a newbie to the FFA as a senior — was hard at work building a utility trailer at the ag site shop that will be for sale at the Yolo County Fair.

Chase Hamilton raised some pigs for the Yolo County Fair as well and currently works for JT Martin Trucking greasing trucks and bolstering his SAE project while doing so.

Brinley Bronson designed and cut signs for various businesses and clients — including signs for the Winters Community Library.

Chris Mara worked for a welder in Dixon on top of raising cattle and livestock at his family’s ranch. With all these seniors completing these ambitious projects, many of their efforts were recognized at the Yolo Section Project Competition Banquet.

See SAE, Page 3

Courtesy photo

Guadalupe Lopez, Kiana Miller and Ava Skinner work in the FFA Store at a Fourth Friday event in downtown Winters.

Continued from Page 2

“The project competition is a contest where students are interviewed about their SAE projects and are graded based on their interview skills and how good their record book is,” said Mederos about the banquet that took place on April 26. “We had three seniors attend and Luke Dondero and Ava Skinner both received Gold Awards for their projects. Ava also received the outstanding placement SAE project award for her interview about Ciarlo Fruit and Nut SAE. Also, Jose Martinez won a Silver Award for his interview working at Lorenzo’s.” While the SAE projects are a requisite for a passing grade, Mederos talked about the overall value they bring to the students who take part in them.

Scholarship recipients

Winters Express

Wolfskill Career

Readiness Academy

• Mexican Concilio of Yolo County scholarship: Melissa Lopez Gutierrez Winters High School

• Adam Davis Memorial: Chase Hamilton – $1,500

• American Legion Yolo Post 77: Makena Driver – $2,000

• Beta Alpha Beta: Christina Ramirez –$1,000, Ava Skinner –$515

• Burns Bellhorn: Luca Navarrete –$1,000 (renewable for 1 year)

• Cabrillo Club #5: Jack Bryant – $500

• California Retired Teachers Association: Giselle Del Toro – $700

• Concilio of Yolo County: Yarethzi Sanchez – $500

• Doug Baldridge Memorial: Ava Skinner

• First Northern Bank: Yarethzi Sanchez – $1,000

• Friends of Winters FFA: Luke Dondero, Jose Martinez, Ava Skinner

rial: Janeth Valadez

– $1,000

• Holden Philbrook Memorial: Ava Skinner, Leslie Lopez, Madeline MacMahon, Jack Bryant, Makena Driver ($750 each)

• Hugh Randolph Memorial: Giselle Del Toro – $500

• Jared Davis Memorial: AJ Pignataro –$1,500

• Jessica Patricia Ortiz-Mendoza and Lupe

Ortiz Si Se Puede Memorial: Giselle Del Toro, Yarethzi Sanchez ($500 each)

• Julia Millon Memorial: Yarethzi Sanchez, McKenna Clifford ($2,000 each)

• Kate Humphrey Kindness Scholarship: Leslie Lopez, Lilianna Rodriguez, Luca Navarrete ($500 each)

• The Kindness Scholarship: McKenna Clifford

• Mariani Nut Company: Guadalupe Tovar, Anahi Garcia, Leslie Herrera, Yarethzi Sanchez, Pricila Gonzalez, Jose Martinez

• McMahon Graf: Ava Skinner $2,000

“Mr. Mac” Memorial: Brinly Bronson –$1,000

• Noah Lichwa Memorial: McKenna Clifford – $1,000

• Pacific Union College: Makena Driver $60,000 (over four years), $2,000 leadership scholarship

• Progress View Farms: Karla Garibay $1,000, (renewable for one year – $2,000 total)

• Saylor Family Scholarship: Giselle Del Toro, Leslie Lopez ($1,000 each)

• Travis Credit Union: Lilianna Rodriguez – $2,000

• Tri Counties Bank: McKenna Clifford –$1,500

• Winters Music Boosters: Kalyssa Grinbergs, Sesar Murillo ($500 each), Declan Vosburg – $400

• Winters Lions Club/F. Ramos Memorial: McKenna Clifford, Jack Bryant, Lilianna Rodriguez ($500 each)

• Yolo Masonic Lodge: Lilianna Rodriguez, Makena Driver

• Yolo Youth Services Award: Leslie Lopez

“These projects allow students to take the hands-on skills they learn in class and apply them to something they’re excited about. Because students get to choose these projects and I think it gets them excited about what they’re learning in class and shows them that what they’re learning can be applied in the real world,” said Mederos. “Obviously, we want students to

learn how to be productive citizens, have a job, do an interview, show up on time and be a good employee or businessman or woman. The FFA motto is, ‘learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live and living to serve.’ And I think an SAE project is really the ‘doing to learn and earning to live.’” SAE

• Fortnightly Club of Winters: Kalyssa Grinbergs

• Friday Night Live: Christina Ramirez, Yarethzi Sanchez ($500 each)

• George & Margery Kresa Memorial: Makenna Driver – $1,000

• Grace & Frank Pignataro Sr. Memo-

• Michael Bazan Jimenez Memorial: Marcus Lopez, Mickayla Passantino, Jack Bryant, Makena Driver, McKenna Clifford, Yarethzi Sanchez, Christina Ramirez, Leslie Lopez, Janeth Valadez, Karla Garibay, Lilianna Rodriguez ($500 each)

• Nick McClellan

– RISE Inc., Brinly Bronson – Winters Friends of the Library ($1,000 each and $500 to affiliated nonprofit)

• Anonymous Scholarships: Makena Driver – $1,000, Danielle Johnson – $1,000, Marcus Lopez – $500, Karla Garibay – $500, Pricila Gonzales – $500

You’ll always remember this day and so will all of us who were here cheering

Courtesy photo

ABOVE: Zander Shane builds his utility trailer. BELOW: Luke Dondero stands next to the ag site field where he grew the pumpkin patch.

Athletes go big their senior year

By Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

The school year is over and the Winters High School Class of 2023 is off on to the next chapter. Before this group of incredible individuals ride off into their respective futures, however, it’s time to highlight the senior athletes of who proudly bore the title of Winters Warriors.

COVID was a big barrier in this class’s high school experience. From masks to distanced learning to have sports stripped away for a time, the adversity these youngsters faced was cumbersome to say the very least. Luckily, the athletic opportunities returned, and the athletes would take full advantage of them.

These athletes showcased the resiliency and tenacity the Warriors are known for on the field, court, track, mat swimming pool, and wherever else the competition lies.

Basketball Women’s varsity

Although the women’s varsity basketball squad was 4–10 in the league, its overall record was 11–13. Under the tutelage of head coach, Jeff Christian the women played with heart and irreplicable chemistry all season long. Bringing much of the team energy were seniors Mickayla Passantino, Dennise Valdez and Dani Johnson.

“They all brought a different ingredient to the team. Dani, her ingredient was positivity. She wasn’t able to play in a good chunk of the season, but she attended every practice and rooted on her teammates and spread that positivity to her sisters out there on the court,” said Christian. “Dennise, her ingredient would be adding humor and laughter to the team. She always had a humorous approach she’s taken to life and tried to look at things through that lens. I know myself and her teammates appreciated that for sure. Then Mickayla added a competitiveness to the team. She wanted to get out and compete and do the best that she could. I think she wasn’t afraid to go out and take action toward

making that happen and never got too down on herself when she wasn’t doing well.”

Men’s varsity

For the second year in a row, the men’s varsity basketball team made it to the playoffs under head coach, Brendan McShea. The Warriors went 6–8 in the league with an overall record of 10–16 and are truly re-establishing WHS basketball as a contender.

The senior athletes on the squad include AJ Pignataro, Nathan Vigil, Marcus Lopez, Logan Crabtree, Jack Bryant and Luca Navarrete.

“The seniors on the team were perfect teammates. They came to work every day, pushed everyone around them and were also super positive with great energy on the bench. Then there were big games where we needed them and they were ready to play,” said McShea. “The whole senior class were an important parts to our success all year. Marcus and Logan started almost every game and had big impacts. These seniors also taught me how to be a high school coach at WHS. They all taught me the number one thing to do is have fun and enjoy the game. Say, when it was a tight moment in a game or I was getting grumpy about how we were running a drill, they’d bring excitement or a joke and bring the energy back up. That little bit of fun got us going, and that’s a good thing to remember always.”

Softball

Over on the softball diamond, the varsity softball club laced up and went head-to-head with stiff competition all year long. The squad ended up going 5–8 in league with an overall record of 7–15 under head coach, Garrett Garcia.

The seniors on the team included Isabella Mehl, Kalyssa Grinbergs, Dani Johnson, Mackayla Garland, Lupita Tovar, Angelica Michel and Mickayla Passantino.

“Our seniors were the perfect example of what it should look like to be a Winters Warrior. They weren’t only athletes with many playing multiple

sports, but they also managed to juggle the demands of senior-year academics. These young women were a good example of the work ethic and dedication needed to be a student-athlete,” said Garcia. “My biggest takeaway from this season was how tough these athletes were. We had several injuries, some sidelined players for a few weeks or longer, but these girls were able to come back and finish their last season. I’m impressed with how well they handled these challenges and I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Baseball

The varsity baseball club had another stellar season this year. Under head coach, Austin Calvert, the Warriors went 10–4 in the league, 16–9 overall, and made it to the second round of the playoffs. Although the team is stacked with underclassman talent, the seniors were a big portion of the force driving the team to success. They included Julien Leon, John Rominger, AJ Pignataro, Marcus Lopez and Justice Madsen.

“This is the group that really made me a coach. Last year, I came in

midway through the season and the juniors at the time were this year’s seniors, and they were my first crew I got to run a full season with. That’s the reason I’ll never forget them, will always be thankful for them and they’ll always have a special place in my heart,” said Calvert. “This group of seniors really did have that grit. They all had that competitive spirit and competitive nature, and that’s the centerpiece of what being a Winters Warrior is. It’s having that drive to succeed, and they all have that.”

Track and field

The Winters Warriors also scorched competition around the track. Head coach Chris Kays along with the help of assistant coach Bill Davis kept the Warriors’ competitive edge sharp all season long. Much of the energy and fuel that kept the team running forward came from seniors Jack Bryant, Sanders Clark, Adrian Cruz, Jesus Cruz, Makena Driver, Christian Hernandez, Madeline MacMahon, Luca Nevarrete, Viridiana Reyes, Diego Rodriguez, Yarethzi Sanchez, Ava Skinner, Nathan Vigil, and Paris Zaragoza.

“The seniors were all good about listening. I’ve had them two years prior and it’s been easygoing for me as a coach. They’ve been what mediates everything,

so I really appreciate that as well as them leading by example. Our four-by-one team crushed it this year for varsity girls and that was with Viri Reyes, Paris Zaragoza, Madeline MacMahon and Makena Driver,” said Kays. “The standout performance from any senior boy or girl has to be Makena. She always puts us in a good position to win in the four-by-one, she won league and division in hurtles and is currently ranked fourth in the 100-meter hurdles. She was also the league champ for the high jump. Overall, most of these seniors are returners and they helped coach the junior varsity’s up when I was busy helping others. Having them come back showed how much they missed it all during COVID and it was just fun having them and competing.”

Football

The Friday night lights always shine bright at Dr. Sellers Field as do the Warriors who play on it. Head coach and WHS Athletic Director, Daniel Ward coached his team to a 2–3 record in the league with an overall record of 4–6. Seniors were the difference makers throughout the season for the team and include Marcus Lopez, Evan Plitt, Sanders

LEFT: Makena Driver runs into first place in the 100 meter hurdles.

BELOW: Viridiana Reyes pulls ahead into first place in a relays race.

KS Winters Photography

Mens varsity

Clark, Ethan Judd, Logan Crabtree, Justice Madsen, John Lopez, Ethan Demment, Josmar Rueda, Omar Bermudez, Manny Cuevas, Evan Carbahal and Isaac Aguilera,

“I love all my seniors, they’re good kids and if I’m talking about football kids I’ve got to talk about Justice Madsen. He’s a doit-all kind of running back you don’t see in high school very often. He led our team in rushing and receiving, which is unheard of. We just haven’t seen that at WHS and it was a lot of fun to coach. Also, Ethan Demment. He battled injuries throughout the year and is one of the most athletic linemen we’ve ever had and we were a different team when we were out there,” said Ward. “The seniors got the most out of this experience. They understood what Winters and Smalltown football are. To these kids, there was nothing bigger or more important than playing in Winters under those lights. This group helped teach me to have fun and enjoy the moment. You get so caught up in wins and losses and records, but as far as the fun aspect and looking forward to going to practice every day, this group had it! And that was refreshing.”

Soccer

Women’s varsity

The soccer program is without a doubt a powerhouse in WHS athletics. The women’s varsity soccer team tore its competition to shreds in an amazing season going 9–0–1 in the regular season, 15–3–1 overall, and went on to secure a section championship under head coach, Chip McKenna, and assistant coaches Fatima Guzman, Kim Olivas and Phillip Hoag.

The notable seniors included Yarethzi Sanchez, Lilianna Rodriguez, Marta Silva, Anahi Garcia, Pricila Gonzalez, Andrea Cojean, Isabella Mehl and Mckenna Carrion-Clifford.

“It was a good group and for the most part they’ve been together since freshman year and the one group affected most by COVID. There was lots of talent on the team, lots of experience and this group really played hard for their school and one another. They showed a lot of spirit this whole year and it’s been one of my favorite years coaching because they got along so well,” said McKenna. “One of my favorite memories with this group was after a rainy day we decided to do slide tackle practice. It just morphed into them just sliding around in the mud. Everyone got involved with that, even the girls I didn’t expect who wanted to get muddy. That was just a fun bonding moment.”

The stellar footwork and winning ways continued on, on the boys’ side of things as well. With coach, Fernando Cervantes at the helm along with Tyler Hagy as assistant coach, the squad went 8–0–2 in the regular season, 13–2–4 overall and also brought home a section championship.

The seniors on the squad were Noel Gutierrez, Jairo Barajas, Agustin Covarrubias, Jorge Guzman, Christian Hernandez, Esai Garcia and Jonathan Guevara.

“I’m really happy for the guys, they finished their school careers as champions. All the seniors brought leadership and did their part in the game all around. Based on what I saw, all those seniors have a great future ahead of them on and off the field,” said Cervantes. “I always give them a chance to talk and hear them out. As a coach, I don’t get things right all the time, so I always ask for criticism and we all grow in this way.

I’m just proud of all of them, and these seniors are graduating as section champions. And that’s something they can carry with them their whole lives. They’ll always be able to look back and remember they were section champions.”

Swim

Whether it’s on dry land or in the pool, the Winters Warriors are always ready to compete. A small, but mighty squad, these water Warriors let their presence be felt in every swim meet under head coach, Melanie Ellison.

The seniors on the team were Makayla Garland, Kalyssa Grinbergs, Madeline MacMahon, Ava Skinner, Jack Bryant and John Rominger.

“It was my first year coaching the team, so the seniors taught me how things go, what the team needs are, and their preferences. They all brought something different, too.

John Rominger had an incredible work ethic. He’s the first one in the pool, the first to offer to help out in any way and is a good role model for his teammates.

Jack has this incredible calm about him as well as this hard-working energy and was definitely our most-improved swimmer.

Ava Skinner was also calm and cool and really positive. She was all smiles and helped everyone on the team feel welcome,” said Ellison. “Madeline was our superstar swimmer with a background in club swimming and I leaned on her as something as an assistant coach role. Kalyssa was also an incredibly skilled swimmer. She was a well-rounded athlete and could ask her to do any event whether it was distance or sprint. Then Makayla brought this mellow and mature energy. She balances a lot in life like a job with her senior

capstone and being on the swim team, she was just this mature individual and people enjoyed her presence in the lanes.”

Volleyball

Last fall the Warriors of the varsity volleyball team showed up and played with pride every time they stepped on the court.

Under head coach, Mari Chavez and assistant coach, Jeff Sims the squad went 1–13 in the league with an overall record of 3–16.

The seniors on the team were Makena Driver and Dani Johnson.

Chavez called Driver a team player who was super energetic, coachable and had a great attitude on the court.

“She worked hard on the court and was not afraid to try new offensive positions,” Chavez said.

According to Chavez, she had the opportunity to coach Johnson on the Winters Middle School volleyball team, and said it was great to see that she had continued to play through her high school athletic career.

“She brought a lot to the team and was a fierce defensive blocker and attacker at the net,” Chavez said. “She’s coachable and has a great attitude.”

Three-sport Warriors

Many of these athletes rebounded in the wake of the pandemic with a renewed vigor for making the most out of every opportunity with the time they had left in school. This mindset yielded an increase in three-sport athletes this year and Ward could not have been happier to see it.

Seniors who were threesport athletes include Marcus Lopez, AJ Pignataro, Makayla Garland, Dani Johnson, Makayla Passantino, Jack Bryant, Yarethzy Sanchez, Ava Skinner and Nathan Vigil.

“This is the most we’ve had in a long time. Another thing that makes this group unique is usually we have

a lot of three-sport athletes as freshmen and sophomores, then it dwindles. But, five of these seniors were three-sport athletes for the first time this year which is cool,” said Ward.

“These kids were participating for the fun of it and playing a lot of these sports for the first time. There was so much taken away from them with COVID, and they decided they were going to do what makes them happy and try things they’ve never tried before. Between COVID and the tragedy of losing some students in the last year, they’re really just wanting to make the most out of life.”

Senior swim team members, (from left) Jack Bryant, Madeline MacMahon, Makayla Garland, Ava Skinner, Kalyssa

Ethan Demment creates a gap in the defense.

KS Winters Photography

KS Winters Photography Julian Leon hits a double.

KS Winters Photography Running back Justice Madsen circles a defender.

Seniors demonstrate growth at Capstone showcase

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Winters High School

Class of 2023 members showed off the fruits of their labor on Wednesday, April 19, at the Senior Capstone Night Showcase. Students lined the WHS gymnasium to show off their hard work and share their experiences on working through their capstone projects with community members, friends and family.

The Senior Capstone Projects are a longterm, independent learning situation that is similar to what graduating students will experience when taking on projects and experiences college. The program also provides students with an opportunity to experience personal growth and gain life and career skills.

Many seniors who spoke to the Express said they chose project focuses that were related to something they had a potential career interest in, while others said they selected a project that focuses on something new they wanted to try or that would push them to take one of their interests to the next level of experience. As they go from start to finish, students receive hands-on, real-life experience and can gauge if that’s a career path they’d like to

further pursue.

Other capstone project focuses provide services, experiences and opportunities for the community or that benefit a cause or nonprofit of choice. These projects can come in the form of fundraising efforts through events, supply drives and in-depth community service experiences.

Andrea Hurst, WHS educator and one of the Senior Capstone Project coordinators was impressed with

the wide array of impressive project topics that were selected this year by students.

“From a teen center at school to repurposing robotics for safety rails, to family recipe books and a heritage tile project — then there are the welders. One made a full-sized customer gate for Quail Ridge and another a custom flatbed for a truck, a customer trailer and a new entry way for Dr. Sellers Field. Go, seniors! I see greatness,” Hurst

said.

Sophia Cortez worked to help coordinate the fourth-grade students’ Tile Legacy Project at Shirley Rominger Intermediate School.

“I plan on being a teacher when I’m older,” Cortez said on why she chose this project focus.

Cortez assisted to help organize each of the fourth-grade classes at Rominger to craft a design on their individual tiles. Each class had its own theme and once students painted and carved their tiles, Cortez worked to fire the tiles in a kiln. She them worked with grout to place all 140 tiles around tree planters on the Rominger site.

“I learned how to teach a class which helped me to improve on my skill on working with students which will help me in the future with my career as a teacher,” Cortez said. “I had a lot of fun with this project.”

Evan Carbahal said he took on learning a new skill when he decided on how to make sushi for his capstone project because he likes sushi. One of the challenges he faced was learning to prepare the rice just right.

“There’s a lot of steps to preparing (rice) and you don’t want to overcook it,” Carbahal said. “I really learned about time management because there’s a lot you have to manage in the kitchen when you’re making sushi.”

Of all the recipes he learned to make, Carbahal said the tempura shrimp roll was his favorite.

Andreas Garcia Loza’s capstone project had a meaningful focus as he worked to document his mother and grandmother’s Hispanic cuisine recipes in a family recipe cookbook.

He said his grandmother and mother gave him a list of their family recipes including tostadas, sopes and his favorite — ceviche. He also added in some of his favorite recipes.

While working on the cookbook, he said he realized how food made connections between family mem-

bers. Garcia Loza said he wants to share the cookbook with his family members so they can continue to make these family favorites in their own homes.

“I think food brings a family together — like closer and it forms a strong bond,” Garcia Loza said.

His inspiration came from his experience of sitting with cousins around a table to help his grandmother help to prepare tamales and other food around the holidays.

“It’s a great bonding experience,” Garcia Loza said.

As part of his final presentation, Garcia Loza shared cups of homemade flan with attendees.

Giselle Del Toro created a pen pal program for older adults and high school teens and created a collection of generational advice from the letters she received from her elder pen pals. About 20 high school students participated, and they had to double up on pen pals because the program was very popular with local older adults.

Del Toro said she didn’t grow up with her grandparents to ask for advice and the pen pal program sparked from the experience of not having

that opportunity.

“I never had my grandparents to look for advice in and that’s why I wanted to do a pen pal program with someone older in the community so they could talk to me about what they did after high school,” Del Toro said.

She said she ended up with five pen pals, and each of them took an untraditional path after high school.

“They each did a very different thing and I found that they all were happy with their lives and with what they had done. and I thought that was so beautiful because you don’t have to necessarily take the traditional route in life to be happy and to do all of the things,” Del Toro said.

She created a book titled “Dear Future Me” that contains the valuable advice she received from her pen pals.

Of all the advice she gained in letters, Del Toro said the most impactful piece was “the idea to do what you want.”

“Life is trial and error. There’s no right way to go about it. and that made me feel really good. because senior year you’re applying to colleges and

cation skills.

you’re trying to figure out what to do — and it’s so hard to know what’s right.” Del Toro said. “And now I feel like if (college) doesn’t work out, that’s OK.

There are other options I can look into.

I’m not going to ruin my life.”

Sesar Murillo chose to learn to play the piccolo, with the end goal of playing a solo performance of Stars and Stripes in front of an audience and having the spotlight on him.

“I had never performed a solo so this was all new to me,” Murillo said. “Just being in front of a crowd. It was a new experience.”

Murillo said he gained valuable career experience in planning for and executing the solo performance because he had not been comfortable with the idea of having attention solely on him.

“I think what made me get through the song up on stage was the fear itself. Looking back, it was a good experience,” Murillo said. “It really helped me get used to that. After high school, I plan on pursuing nursing and I’m going to have to talk to a lot of different people like that. It’s making me step out of my comfort zone.”

Jose Martinez and Kiana Miller’s capstone projects were

to work to create the first-ever FFA storefront so students could sell the produce from the working farm’s harvest. Their efforts included doing research on what other school farm stores are doing to be successful, developing the actual store business model and planning price points, as well as doing the work to help harvest the crops.

When asked about where the inspiration to start a store came from, Miller said she had grown up in different facets of agriculture because she comes from an agriculturally focused family, and she wanted to learn to market and sell different products. Martinez said he always wanted to know how stores are run.

The experience brought both students the opportunity to gain new skills, first-hand experiences and learn a wealth of knowledge when it comes to running a business.

“We definitely have to have a lot of communication skills to not only make our project speeches but to talk to different people who want to buy our stuff and know about what they want to know about (those products) before they buy it,”

Miller said.

Martinez said he stepped out of his comfort zone and echoed the importance of needing to be able to have good communi-

“I’m usually more of a shy person. So getting myself out there and having that conversation with customers and actually knowing about the product — like where it came from,” Martinez said.

Martinez and Miller both said they had fun working together, despite the stress of the project. Miller said the experience gave her a new perspective on business ownership.

“I enjoyed talking to people about what I’m selling and having pride in that — that was definitely a big pro for me, too,” Miller said.

Martinez and Miller sold the Winters FFA olive oil bottles, mandarines grown on the ag site orchard and other FFA swag items at the FFA site storefront, as well as in popup shops in downtown Winters.

Jaedyn Liss chose to take on making a hand-built arcade machine for her capstone project. She said she wanted to do something around games or computers.

“I spent 30 hours getting an arcade machine running games,” Liss said. “I had the arcade machine given to me by the seniors of last year who started it.”

A senior last year started by creating the machine and Liss took it and put in work to do hours of research on

home automation and to build it into a working arcade machine that students can play games on.

Liss learned about Raspberry Pi home automation system. Raspberry Pi is a system that offers the basis for a lot of simple automation needs like the rotation of screens at fast food restaurants and movie theatres.

“I think my time researching and learning about everything to do with Raspberry Pi and putting myself through research was part of my growth,” Liss said.

She said she also made big strides in learning her limits when it comes to stress and time management.

“Overall, (I was) learning myself —

like my limits when it comes to stress and management stuff and being able to (know) how much can I cram without actually being super stressed about it,” Liss said.

Project advice

Many seniors passed down wisdom from their capstone project experiences to incoming seniors who are getting ready to embark on their own capstone project journeys. Liss advised them to not limit themselves by their fear of it.

“Don’t be afraid to overset yourself goals, because at the end you can always look at what you’ve done and redo your project proposal and say this is what I did. As long as it shows that you pushed

yourself — even if you haven’t met every goal that you originally wanted to,” Liss said. Martinez said to do something you haven’t done before and want to learn. Miller added on to do something they love or are passionate about.

“Don’t just do something you think will be easy because then you’re not going to have fun and enjoy it,” Miller said.

Murillo advises them to be ready and not procrastinate on selecting a project.

“Do not wait until the last minute to think about what you want to do. I know some people as freshmen already know what they want to do — so it’s never too early to plan ahead,” Murillo said.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Jose Martinez and Kianna Miller worked to create the first storefront shop for the Winters FFA program. They sold FFA olive oil, mandarins and more.

Wolfskill CRA sends off class of 2023 graduates

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Wolfskill Career

Readiness Academy celebrated its Class of 2023 graduates who did the work to earn their accredited diplomas and work-ready certificates. The end of their high school journey concluded at a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 26. Students and their families gathered alongside CRA and Winters Joint Unified School District staff and trustees to celebrate the momentous milestone.

Raena Lavelle, CRA administrator, welcomed attendees saying she was “in awe of the resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by each and every one of these exceptional learners.”

“This graduation ceremony is not only a testament to their academic

accomplishments but also a celebration of their personal growth, character development, and the boundless potential that lies within them,” Lavelle said. “Alternative education is a beacon of hope — a shining testament to the fact that there is no one-size-fitsall approach to learning. Each student here today has walked a path less traveled, a path that required them to embrace their individuality, think outside the box, and redefine what success means to them.”

Lavelle encouraged graduates to ake pride in their achievements because they are the product of the students’ dedication and hard work.

“As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, may you continue to challenge the status quo, push boundaries, and blaze trails. You have the power to shape the world around

you, to make a difference, and to inspire others with your unique stories of triumph. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, and never forget the remarkable strength that lies within you,” Lavelle said.

In traditional CRA graduation fashion, Wolfskill CRA staff also celebrated each student with a personalized speech.

Greg Wade, CRA teacher said:

Kiera Damon

Wade raved about how Kiera Damon is a “huge fan of science” noting a focus on biology. He noted she has always been “attentive to her studies and that is reflected in her graduation today.”

Damon was also celebrated for her “amazing resiliency as a young person.”

“She has faced so many

problems in her short life, be they social or financial, and she has weathered them all through her never-say-die attitude. I know nothing will stop her,” Wade said.

Melissa Lopez Gutierrez

Wade shared that when Melissa Lopez Gutierrez first arrived at the CRA last fall, the staff didn’t know whether she was willing to work hard. However, her work ethic shined through and she was recognized during the school year at a Winters JUSD Board of Trustees meeting

“She worked at the supermarket and she worked at school. She won our Super Star award for most credits and best conduct,” Wade said.

Lopez Gutierrez was awarded a scholarship from the Mexican Concilio of Yolo County.

Khalaya Vigil Peters

Wade called Khalaya Vigil Peters an “extremely hard worker” for her efforts at work, in class and at home.

“She held down a job at Round Table Pizza throughout most of her time at Wolfskill, and she worked very hard while on campus, as well,” Wade said. “She also takes care of younger siblings and demonstrates consistent responsibility towards herself, her family, and her community.”

Kai Neevel, CRA teacher shared the following: Savio Robinson Neevel said Savio Robinson showed up to class “every day ready to work and with a kind word for everyone he encountered.”

“He is one of the more consistent students I have taught, not just in his approach to school, but from what I can tell, his approach to life,” Neevel said.

“Savio has honed a skill set that will serve him well in his future endeavors and I am proud to call him a graduate of the Wolfskill CRA.”

Gabriel Flores

According to Neevel, Gabe Flores “has shown the work ethic and ability of someone determined to reach his goals.”

“He has not only worked hard at completing his education, but also in his work outside the classroom. He

Khalaya Vigil Peters

Melissa Lopez Gutierrez Kiera Damon

Savio Robinson

is upbeat, generous, and keeps his focus on the finish line,” Neevel said.

Miguel Pulido

Miguel Pulido was unable to attend the graduation ceremony because he was a Marine Corps Boot Camp. Neevel took time to acknowledge Pulido’s “hard work and dedication” to honor him as a CRA graduate.

Jeff Sims, CRA sounselor spoke about:

Jorge Garcia

Sims said Jorge Garcia is “a student with tremendous insight into himself. He is also a student who can be mature beyond his young years.”

Garcia approached Sims about attending the CRA when he was a freshman and they agreed to give him a trial run since he was considered young to apply.

However, Garcia finished his graduation requirements four months early — to which Sims said was “no easy task.”

“I am proud of your accomplishments. As you move forward with life, remember that you can accomplish whatever goal you set for yourself,” Sims said.

Alejandro Cruz

Sims said he recognized Alejandro Cruz’s academic potential when he joined CRA in his junior year and was confident he would be able to graduate on time.

“What I quickly learned is that you have a pace that is unique to you. I found myself worried at each grading period when I didn’t see the progress I was hoping for,” Sims said. “During our many conversations, you would confidently remark that you would graduate on time, and here you are. I am confident that you will accomplish whatever goals you set for yourself.”

Liz Coman, school district Career and College Coordinator, said the following:

Braydon Orrock

Coman spoke about Brayden Orrock “unique passions and qualities.”

“While academic achievements are typically celebrated at graduations, I think it’s equally important to recognize the value of students, like Brayden, who find fulfillment through working and pursuing their passions outside the traditional classroom setting,” Coman said.

Coman said Orrock has “consistently demonstrated a deep enthusiasm for the things that truly ignite his passion beyond textbooks and school assignments” as a hands-on learner who “is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get to work.”

“As a matter of fact, getting to work is what he relishes; he will be the first to tell you he thoroughly enjoys working with his

hands, whether it’s working on cars, welding and fabricating projects, or helping out in the auto shop. Everytime I chatted with Brayden about his future, welding came up. It was fun for me to talk to him about welding because his whole demeanor lights up and he becomes very intense about it. It’s clear to me he finds joy and purpose in working with his hands.”

Alexis Moses Coman said Alexis Moses “is well on her way to reaching her potential for a full and fulfilling life” and shared comments from community panelists who sat with Moses for her Career Ready Certificate interview. Panelists comments called Moses and insgithfult, reflect person who is resilient and mature beyond her years.

“Consider that these interviews are no longer than 20 minutes, more likely 15. Yet during that short time, Alexis was able to convey her ability to face chal-

lenges with tenacity and demonstrate her grace and determination in navigating through them,” Coman said.

While working with Moses, Coman said she learned she was working with “someone who has a belief in herself and her potential.”

“This belief allows her to understand that a critique of her work is not presented as a means to belittle her but as a means to help her learn and become even better. This ability to take constructive commentary and apply that commentary on the job is a trait employers seek in employees, and with Alexis, an employer will ‘hit the jackpot,’ as they say.”

Coman also spoke to Moses’ compassion for others and said she has a kind heart and a helpful outlook on life. She shared comments from community members who have been helped by Moses through her community service efforts.

Jorge Garcia

Alejandro Cruz Braydon Orrock

Alexis Moses Gabriel Flores

Ana Temoltzi Silva Ainsley McKim

Anneliese Gonzalez Rodarte

America Agredano Lopez Agustin Covarrubias Lopez

Angelica Michel

Anahi Garcia

Alfredo Junez Anthony Pignataro Bernardo Navarrete Hernandez

Marta

Manny

Nicolas Correa

Chase

Joshua Rosas

Dani Johnson

Andrea Fernandez (Sac State)

Abraham Barajas Hernandez

Adrian Cruz

Esai Garcia

Lizbeth Salcedo

Abby Reckard (Sac State)

Eric Garcia (Sac State)

Brinly Bronson

Christian Valadez

Esai Garcia

Dennise Valadez

Ethan Judd

Carolina Martinez Gonzalez

Christopher Mera Juan

Ethan Demment

Eduardo Echeveria

Evan Plitt

Christian Hernandez

Danielle Johnson

Erick Rodarte

Carmen Barrios Millar

Christina Ramirez

Esmeralda Hernandez

Diego Rodriguez

Evan Carbahal

Chase Hamilton

Daisy Valdez-Sanchez

Emmauel Cuevas Martinez

Christian Solorio

Declan Vosburg

Ernesto Villalobos

Leaders make their mark as Warriors

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Winters High School may be a small school, but a big benefit is the connections and opportunities students have to make big impacts on campus and in their community. Some of these youth leaders make a notable impact in the waves they make, no matter how big or small.

WHS staff shared their insights on young leaders from the Class of 2023.

Mickayla Passantino was recognized for her participation in Link Crew for the past two years. In her Link Crew role, Passantino helps to welcome freshmen to WHS and goes above and beyond to support their transition. She was called a “caring senior” who works hard to make sure all freshmen have a great first year of high school.

Leslie Lopez has made an impact through her role in creating a safe space for teens at WHS.

“As a student, Leslie has seen students struggling with college and career planning, homework, and even basic needs such as hunger and sanitation. Thus she put her plan into action and created a safe space for teens in room T1. This is a place where our young people can go and receive information on college and careers, as well as get a free snack or toiletries as needed,” said Olivia Rodriguez, WHS librarian.

“Leslie has worked tirelessly to fundraise and collect donations to make a space for students on the high school campus. She outlined her vision of what the room would look like early in the fall, and now the space is used regularly by students to relax, hang out, and enjoy a space to themselves,” said educator Jessica Williams.

Kalyssa Grinbergs was given credit for single-handedly creating the WHS speech and debate club, which has been active for two years.

“Speech and Debate will continue after Kalyssa because she had the foresight to bring younger students into leadership roles,” said educator Matt Biers-Ariel.

Rodriguez called Brinly Bronson a library volunteer rockstar. Bronson wanted to serve at the Winters Community Library for her Senior Capstone Project, and her volunteer hours soon transitioned to taking on one project after the other to make the library more accessible to the public in multiple ways.

“Brinly has stepped in and has worked wonders in organizing and displaying books in our book sale room. She recategorized our books into easy-to-find genres such as mystery, non-fiction, young adult fiction, and children’s literature. She also created easyto-read signage throughout the book sale room for easy accessibility and she created new book displays, similar to displays found in bookstores,” Rodriguez said.

Galilea Duran  is the creator of the Warrior News broadcast which keeps students updated on important information.

“During the pandemic, she saw the need for a school newscast to keep our students up to date with school, athletics, and all extracurricular activities. For the past three years, Galy has led the Warrior News Club and has created countless videos showcasing WHS and keeping our students up to date with

important information about WHS. She also edits our videos and makes sure our club members are participating and producing videos our school can be proud of,” Rodriguez said.

Alissa Garcia, Bailey Ring and Ainsley McKim were recognized by Courtney Casavecchia, WHS activities director and educator, for their four years of “stellar leadership in ASB. “I have always been able to depend on them to put in the extra hours, run the last-minute errands, help lead the class, and follow through with their jobs and duties,” Casavecchia said.

Ava Skinner is described as a kind and considerate leader in the FFA program who leads by example by agricultural educators Kayla Mederos and Donnie Whitworth. “She is dedicated and always willing to

work hard and learn something new. Ava has left her mark on the Winters FFA and we can’t wait to see her future success,” they noted in their nomination statement.

Kiana Miller’s smile and enthusiasm brighten every room according to Mederos and Whitworth. “Kiana is a servant leader who understands the importance of perseverance and commitment,” Mederos and Whitworth shared in their nomination statement.

While Zander Shane is new to the Winters FFA program, he has made an

impact by showing other students that hard work and having a positive attitude will open doors for you. “Zander’s willingness to push himself outside of his comfort zone in order to become a better version of himself is inspiring to younger students,” Mederos and Whitworth stated.

Jose Martinez is described as kind, dependable, respectful and hardworking. “He is a quiet leader that shows other students how to be a better leader by consistently showing up and giving it his all,” Mederos and Whitworth shared.

Evan Ramos has had a profoundly positive impact on the WHS music program according to music educator Michael Williams.

‘Throughout his time at the school, he has led the percussion section, performed on piano for Waggoner (Elementary) students at their holiday show and sang in the choir,” Williams said.

Williams said Sesar Murillo has been a major factor in the success of the band and choir. “His vocal abilities and attention to detail have made every choir performance more enjoyable for the audi-

ence,” Williams said. Isabella Mehl’s musical contributions to the WHS band cannot be overstated from Williams’ perspective. “Her abilities on clarinet and bass clarinet are at the heart of the sound of the band. She has frequently been relied upon to embrace musical challenges that made the entire group’s performance better,” Williams said. Williams called Ivan Sapalu a trusted member of the choir. “His steady demeanor and musical prowess was vitally important when the choir needed to be reinvigorated after musical performances resumed after the COVID shutdown,” Williams said. Christian Valadez has been a “stand out” performer in both the band and choir and is frequently featured as a soloist and considered a key contributor to all performances. “He additionally was selected to perform for Winters High School’s first invitation to the “Holiday

in My Hometown” Concert at the Vacaville Performing arts theater which featured some of the best choral groups in Solano and Yolo counties,” Williams said.

LEFT: Galilea Duran leads the Class of 2023 on their Senior Walk through the halls of Winters High School. Seniors also walked the halls of their elementary and middle schools to the applause of younger students.

BELOW RIGHT: Sesar Murillo heads toward the graduation stage on June 1. Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express

Courtesy photos

ABOVE: Brinly Bronson and Leslie Lopez received scholarships for their volunteer efforts. BELOW LEFT: Kalyssa Grinbergs led the charge to create the Speech and Debate Club. BELOW RIGHT: Alissa Garcia has shown Warrior dedication by serving in student leadership positions for four years.

Scenes of Winters 2023 graduation

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

ABOVE: Shyne Williams smiles for a photo following the graduation ceremony. BELOW: John Barsotti, Winters High School principal, shares

families

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

ABOVE: Tristan Cooper receives a hug from Vickie Catalan, his third-grade teacher at Waggoner Elementary School.

RIGHT: Janiyah Garcia’s family celebrates her achievement following the June 1 graduation ceremony.

ABOVE: Class of 2023 members walk along the Dr. Sellers’ Field track toward the graduation stage.

RIGHT: Angel Garcia and Andres Garcia pose for photos with family and friends.

Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express

John Lopez

Jose Martinez Ramirez

Jorge Guzman

Joshua Rosas

John Rominger

Jose Sandoval Cuevas

Evan Ramos

Gray Brunson

Jaedyn Liss

Gabriela Chavez Alvarado

Gustavo Bermudez Jr.

Janeth Valadez

Giselle Del Toro

Ivan Sapalu

Janiya Garcia

Eveleen Linarez

Guadalupe Tovar Arce

Jairo Abraham Barajas

Galilea Duran

Isabella Mehl

Janett Partida Avina

Giselle Ybarra

Jack Bryant

Jesus Cruz

Makena Driver

Mickayla Passantino Hernandez

Marylee Guzman

Natalie Ibarra

Marta Silva Alvarez

Miguel Reyes Barajas

Mckenna Clifford

Nicolas Correa

Marcus Lopez

Miguel Pulido

Mayra Lopez

Nathan Vigil

Josmar Campusano Rueda

Kalyssa Grinbergs

Lillian Back

Julian Leon

Kiana Miller

Logan Crabtree

Justice Madsen

Liliana Murillo

Madeline MacMahon

Julian Garcia

Karla Garibay Tirado

Lizbeth Salcedo Del Toro

Julio Beraun

Leslie Lopez

Lucas Dondero Brazier

Kali Benton

Lilianna Rodriguez

Makayla Garland

Nicole Williams

Ruby Bernal

Sophia Cortez

Omar Bermudez

Saul Alberto Cruz

Tristan Cooper

Pricila Gonzalez Sanchez

Shyne Williams

Viridiana Reyes-Reyes

Noel Gutierrez Gonzalez

Sanders Clark

Tea Novello

Paris Zaragoza

Sesar Murillo

Tye Singh

Raphael Daweed

Sofia Sanchez Martinez

Xochil Bernal