Class of 2026 ready for what comes next
WHS, Wolfskill CRA graduates prepare to begin the next chapter of their journeys
By Jacob Hoffman and Crystal Apilado Winters Express
After years of learning, growing and reaching milestones both inside and outside the classroom, the Class of 2026 from Winters High School and Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy is preparing to turn the page to its next chapter.
Following 13 years of schooling and countless hours spent studying, competing, performing and serving their community, this year’s graduates are ready to leave their mark on the world.
Along this journey, the Class of 2026 has seen a great deal of accomplishments, milestones and highlights, including academic, extracurricular and athletic achievements. Just this year alone, WHS sports have had a spectacular run of successes, as high school Counselor Marcella Heredia noted.
“The boys football team won the championship for the first time ever,” Heredia told the Express. “Both basketball teams made playoff appearances, the soccer teams had outstand-
ing seasons as well as baseball, softball and several track athletes.”
As Chris Novello, WHS teacher and lead Class of 2026 advisor, put it, “the Class (of 2026) had a combination of individual and group successes in many areas, both academically and athletically. Championship teams, championship individuals.”
Principal Justin Young said the Class of 2026 continued a tradition of excellence at WHS through accomplishments in athletics, agriculture, academics, leadership and service.
Young pointed to the football team’s state championship season, FFA state champions and national
Congratulations to our Graduates!
qualifiers, and student success in Advanced Placement, dual-enrollment and Capstone programs.
Beyond individual achievements, Young said students challenged themselves academically, supported younger students and took advantage of college and career pathway opportunities throughout their time at WHS.
CRA teacher Dawn Delorefice, along with other teachers, paid tribute to each of her four graduates describing them as positive, hard-working and wise, with special skills in a diverse field of talents like
See GRADS, Page 5
Skyler Neal Gavyn Moore
Marcos Del Toro
Katie Espinosa
Yahir Pedraza
Alejandro Murillo Cerrillo
LEFT: Violet Tuel, Ava Muir Vickrey and Kourtnei Hampton cheer on their friends as they receive their diplomas during the Winters High School Commencement Ceremony on June 4.
BELOW: Principal Justin Young shakes hands with Alexis Soria Speegle as she receives her diploma during the Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy Graduation Ceremony on May 28.
Crystal Apilado? Winters Express
Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy
high school careers.
By Crystal Apilado
Editor-in-Chief
Four Wolfskill Career
Readiness Academy graduates wrapped up their high school journeys and prepared to take their next steps during a commencement ceremony on May 28 at the Winters Community Library’s Margaret Parsons Room.
Family members, friends, students, staff and district leaders gathered in the Margaret Parsons Room to celebrate graduates Adrian Bernal, Tyson Cutts, Alexis Soria Speegle and Jay Warren.
Wolfskill CRA Principal Justin Young praised the graduates’ resilience and growth throughout their
“Our students have shared this time and time again in conversations with our trustees, in their YouthTruth data and, most importantly, through their actions of resilience and by embodying our graduate profile competencies of creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, cultural awareness and community engagement,” Young said.
Young described the past year as transformative for both students and the school, pointing to growth in the academy’s outdoor learning space and garden, as well as student and staff presentations before the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of
Trustees.
Using the academy’s garden as a metaphor, Young cited educational research emphasizing that growth flourishes when people are provided with the support, relationships and opportunities they need to succeed.
“At CRA, we do not believe every student must grow in exactly the same way,” Young said. “We believe in helping every student grow into who they are meant to become.”
Celebrating student achievements
Teachers Dawn Delorefice and Greg Wade, along with counselor Nicole Roper, shared reflections
Justin Young Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy Principal
Our students have shared this time and time and time again in conversations with our trustees, in their Youth Truth data, and, most importantly, their actions of resilience and embodying our Graduate Profile Competencies of creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, cultural awareness and community engagement.
And to our families: thank you for your support and trust in us, championing and believing in your students, and partnering with us on this journey.
This year has been a transformation year for the Career Readiness Academy, a year of growth for students and our outdoor learning space and garden, and was highlighted by our student and staff presentation at the Winters JUSD Board of Trustees meeting one week ago from today.
Students shared where they have come from, what the school community has provided, how they have shaped the vision and plan of the community, and all the work they have done to grow this program and sustain it to where it is now.
Educational researcher Adam Jacobs, writing for the National Center for School Climate, compares schools to gardens, which is fitting for CRA and the work you have done this year both physically and metaphorically in growth and gardening. Growth,
Going Places
Graduation is a time of recognition and fulfillment. It’s also a time of new beginning with places to go and things to do.
Jacobs says, is about the environment we create around it, as we see in conversations, physical spaces, and data. Gardens flourish when there is care, patience, the right conditions, and people committed to helping growth happen. Schools are much the same. Growth happens when students experience belonging, trust, support, and relationships with people who continue believing in them, even on difficult days and that is what defines CRA. Simi Sardana wrote in one of my favorite education databases, Edutopia, about using gardening to teach equity. She reminds us that equity is not about giving every plant the exact same amount of water or sunlight because every plant has different needs. Some require more shade. Some need richer soil. Some bloom quickly, while others take more time. The same is true for students and CRA has become that place to support our students and provide exactly what they need like our plants in the garden to reach the outcome desired- preparing you now and for the future.
Adrian Bernal Tyson Cutts
Alexis Soria Speegle
Jay Warren
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy Principal Justin Young (left) leads graduates Jay Warren, Alexis Soria Speegle, Tyson Cutts and Adrian Bernal in the traditional tassel-turning ceremony on May 28 at the Winters Community Library’s Margaret Parsons Room. The symbolic move from right to left marked the completion of their high school education.
Proud Supporter of Winters Future Farmers of America and Parent Teachers Association! Proud to Support Youth Day and the Winters Community! Proud Platinum Sponsor of the Winters High Safe and Sober Grad Night & Yearly Sponsor of the Winters Little League since 2019!
on each graduate’s accomplishments, character and future plans.
Adrian Bernal
Staff members highlighted Bernal’s strong work ethic, generosity and ability to quickly become part of the Wolfskill CRA community.
Delorefice noted that Bernal became the academy’s first student to participate in a RISE apprenticeship and has impressed supervisors at Chuy’s with his dependability and positive attitude.
She also praised his willingness to support classmates and help others whenever needed.
“We need to celebrate,”
Delorefice said, also announcing that Bernal had recently passed his ELPAC assessment and was officially reclassified.
Wade described Bernal as a pleasure to work with who consistently completed assignments and embraced new opportunities.
Roper said that although Bernal joined CRA this year, he quickly built strong relationships with students and staff.
“His kind and inclusive nature has been incredibly valued and appreciated,”
Roper said, adding that Bernal plans to continue his education in welding at Solano Community College.
Tyson Cutts
Teachers praised Cutts’
Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy graduate Adrian Bernal (left) is recognized by teacher Dawn Delorefice (center) as teacher Greg Wade looks on during the May 28 CRA Graduation. Bernal was later awarded a $300 scholarship from the Concilio of
creativity, artistic talent and expressive personality.
Roper described him as an accomplished artist whose recent storyboard project showcased both creativity and attention to detail.
Delorefice said one of Cutts’ greatest strengths is his ability to bring words to life when reading aloud.
“Tyson can turn a standard classroom reading into a full theatrical production,” she said.
Wade praised Cutts for forging his own path and growing in his ability to collaborate and engage with others.
“Tyson probably doesn’t know this, but Mr. Wade thinks he’s the man,” Wade said. “He has taken a different road than others, but he made it his own road.”
Alexis Soria Speegle
Although Soria Speegle completed graduation requirements in December,
she returned to participate in the ceremony alongside her classmates.
Wade commended her maturity and the respect she consistently showed toward adult mentors.
Roper said Soria Speegle’s positive attitude and determination left a lasting impression on the school community.
“She had a goal of graduating early, and once she set her mind to it, no one was going to stop her,” Roper said.
Delorefice described Soria Speegle as socially and emotionally intelligent, with a natural ability to read situations and bring out the best in those around her.
Jay Warren
Staff members recognized Warren for her thoughtful nature, artistic abilities and strong character.
Delorefice described Warren as a student with quiet confidence whose wisdom and insight enriched classroom discussions.
“You are consistently thoughtful, deliberate and conscientious in all you do,” Delorefice said.
Wade praised Warren’s
In fact, research on school gardens and student well-being has shown something powerful: students thrive when they feel connected to adults, to purpose, to community, and to spaces that nurture growth. Researchers found that flourishing often comes through patience, meaningful relationships, and persistence rather than perfection.
The proof is in the garden, literally, and in the feedback we have heard from staff and students. At CRA, we do not believe every student must grow in exactly the same way. We believe in helping every student grow into who they are meant to become.
And today, we celebrate the incredible students and of our four graduates — Adrian, Tyson, Alexis, and Jay!
“Each of you brings unique strengths, talents and perspectives that will shape your future and impact the world around you.”
Rody
Boonchouy, Winters JUSD Superintendent
critical-thinking skills and creativity, saying she has a bright future ahead.
Roper highlighted Warren’s kindness and willingness to help others, both at school and at home.
“No matter what Jay decides to do after high school, we know that she will approach it thoughtfully,” Roper said.
Scholarship, commencement remarks
Following the student recognitions, graduates were honored with scholarship presentations and words of encouragement from community and district leaders.
Antonio De Loera, a member of the Concilio of Yolo County Board of Directors, presented a $300 scholarship to Bernal.
De Loera explained that Concilio of Yolo County was established in 1971 to
advocate for opportunities within Yolo County’s Latino communities and has awarded scholarships to graduates from county high schools since 1996.
“We know that $300 doesn’t go as far as it may have used to,” De Loera said. “But take this as a testament of not just our faith in you, but the entire community’s faith in whatever it is you do next.” He encouraged Bernal to remember the support of his community and to give back wherever life takes him.
Winters Joint Unified School District Superintendent Rody Boonchouy also addressed graduates and their families, celebrating the milestone and encouraging students as they move forward.
“Each of you brings unique strengths, talents and perspectives that will shape your future and impact the world around you,” Boonchouy said. “We believe in your potential and have high expectations for what comes next.”
Boonchouy reminded graduates that every path forward — whether college, trade school, military service or entering the workforce — is an honorable one. As the ceremony concluded, Boonchouy officially declared the students graduates of Wolfskill CRA and Winters Joint Unified School District.
Young then led the traditional tassel-turning ceremony, directing students to move their tassels from right to left to symbolize the completion of their high school education.
“You should be so proud, because everyone here in this room is so proud of you,” Young said.
HOWLERS
CRA Continued from Page 2
Yolo County.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Principal Justin Young congratulates graduate Alexia Soria Speegle. Soria Speegle completed graduation requirements in December and returned to participate in the ceremony alongside her fellow graduates.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Graduate Tyson Cutts smiles as teachers share reflections on his creativity, artistic talent and expressive reading abilities during the Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy graduation ceremony.
Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy graduate Jay Warren (right) accepts her diploma from Principal Justin Young during commencement exercises at the Winters Community Library.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
WHS Class of 2026 heads into next chapter
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
The 130th commencement ceremony for Winters High School, held June 4 at Dr. Sellers Field, marked a heartfelt celebration of resilience, community and future promise as 107 students graduated as the Class of 2026.
Families, faculty, staff and community members gathered to honor the academic and personal achievements of the graduating class. School and district leaders, student representatives and a school board trustee addressed graduates, reflecting on their growth and future paths.
‘How are the children?’
Principal Justin Young opened the ceremony by grounding the night in a simple but recurring question from the school year.
“At staff meetings this year, we often started with a simple question: ‘How are the children?’”
He referenced a Masai proverb about greeting others by asking after the well-being of children, framing it as a reflection of community strength.
“This class helped continue a tradition of excellence at Winters High School, from football state champions to FFA state champions and national qualifiers to incredible ac-
GRADS
Continued from Page 1
writing, emotional intelligence and art.
Young described 2025-26 as a transformative year for CRA, marked by growth both in the program and in its outdoor learning spaces and garden.
He said CRA students recently shared their experiences with the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees, reflecting on their personal journeys, the support they found within the school community and the role they have played in shaping the academy’s future.
Drawing a comparison between schools and gardens, Young said growth occurs when students experience belonging, trust and meaningful relationships with adults who continue to support them through challenges.
“The proof is in the garden, literally and in the feedback we have heard from staff and students,” Young said. “At CRA, we do not believe every student must grow in exactly the same way. We believe in helping every student grow into who they are meant to become.”
Novello also expounded on the challenges that this class had to face, noting that many students at WHS have more on their plates
complishments in academics, the arts, leadership, and service,” Young said.
He pointed to student achievement across academics, career pathways and extracurricular programs, noting growth in both college and workforce preparation.
“We have also seen tremendous growth from students across all backgrounds, including incredible progress among our multilingual students. This class is headed to community colleges, universities, trades, careers, military service, agriculture, apprenticeships, and oppor-
than ever before.
“I think this class, collectively, has a great deal going on in and out of school. Many play sports, many are involved in extracurricular activities, many have a variety of interests and hobbies outside of school. Many do all of the above.”
But despite this, the Class of 2026 has always found a way to rise above and exceed the obstacles that they faced.
“When students found themselves stretched too thin, and they found themselves struggling to find balance with their commitments, they have demonstrated a way to re-calibrate and make adjustments.”
This quality is just one of many that makes the Class of 2026 a special one. Another, as Heredia described, is how well connected they are to their community, and how their community seeks to celebrate their accomplishments with them.
“In a smaller school and town like Winters it’s nice to see that a school’s accomplishments become community accomplishments and students are celebrated not just in school but while they are out in the community as well.”
Heredia continued, “The class of 2026 is leaving Winters High School and leaving behind a sense of momentum and pride that the other students will con-
tunities uniquely their own. Every one of those paths matters,” he said. Young also highlighted the district’s Graduate Profile, emphasizing communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, cultural awareness and community engagement.
As he closed, he returned to the theme that framed his remarks.
“If someone were to ask us tonight: ‘How are the children?’ We can answer proudly: The children of 2026 are amazing.”
Snapshots over time Class president Tatia-
tinue with.”
Novello noted that this class has also put in a lot of work into many aspects of their education, including fundraising for their senior year.
“Over the course of the past four years these students, along with the support of their families, had strong fundraising efforts which culminated with them fully funding prom and their Senior Trip to Santa Cruz. Collectively, there is a pretty strong work ethic throughout much of the class.”
na Torres followed with a reflection that traced the class’s journey from childhood to graduation, beginning with how surreal the moment felt.
“For years, graduation has always felt so far away… but now it’s us. We’re the ones wearing the caps and gowns, we’re the ones sitting in the seats, we’re the ones saying goodbye,” Torres said.
To ground that feeling, she walked back through earlier years of school life.
She recalled elementary school as a time when “none of us were thinking about graduation applica-
Heredia explained. “There are more apprenticeships, community college programs and technical certifications programs that are expanding. Community college continues to be affordable and has a variety of programs in healthcare, IT, welding and agriculture.”
“Some students are going straight to 4-year-schools,” Novello added, “some are very talented in the trades and are going straight to work, and some will continue their post-secondary studies at a community college, with plans to transfer.
“I think students have flexible career pathsstudents are no longer expected to follow a 4-year college degree profession.”
Marcella Heredia, high school counselor
As these students end their time with Winters JUSD and journey out into the wider world, the future holds many promises and challenges. More than ever, the world is changing rapidly, and the opportunities available to students are more varied than ever before.
“I think students have flexible career paths-students are no longer expected to follow a 4-year-college degree profession,”
No matter the expressed plan, it seems like the great majority of the Class of 2026 has a ‘plan’ for what they want to do with their future.”
Young said the graduating class reflects many of the qualities identified in the district’s Graduate Profile, including communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, cultural awareness and community engagement. He noted that graduates
tions, or even our future,” followed by middle school friendships, memories and shared routines that felt ordinary at the time but now carry more weight.
“Those moments felt small and normal, but while looking back, those moments meant everything,” she said. She also acknowledged the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, which shaped part of the class’s middle school experience and altered milestones like promotion ceremonies. From there, Torres
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will be pursuing a wide range of futures, including community colleges, fouryear universities, military service, careers, apprenticeships, agriculture and the skilled trades.
Young also highlighted the growth demonstrated by students across all backgrounds, including multilingual learners.
“Every one of those paths matters,” Young said. Young added that the graduates reached this milestone with the support of families, teachers, coaches, counselors, friends and the broader Winters community.
“It truly takes a village,” he said.
But if the past is any indication of the Class of 2026, then the future should look bright for these intrepid students.
“A handful of teachers who were the elementary teachers of these students 6 or more years ago have had more recent interactions with these students through Capstone presentations and Cross-Age Tutoring placements,” Novello described. “I hear from many of these teachers, ‘I loved this class when they were in (any) grade.’ The Class of 2026 has followed through on that potential from many years ago.
“All in all, there are a great number of thoughtful, kind students in this class.”
Winters High School graduates wait for their names to be called before crossing the stage to receive their diplomas.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Winters High School
Zyanya Melendez Yasmin Guzman Murillo Violet Tuel
Varenna Terronez
Valeria Reyna
Timothy Washabaugh
Theo Röger
Tatiana Torres
Soledad Melendez Huerta
Sofia Halling
Skyler Neal Savannah Sparks
Ricki Rodriguez
Richard Garcia Jr. Reece Barbosa
Ramon Lopez III
Rachel Rominger
Paige English
Oswaldo DelToro Alvarez Oscar Cervantes Hernandez
L-R: Prestlie Hagar, Raelynn Hagar, Taylor Hagar, Madi Gordon, Tyler Gordon, Amy Pearce, Jim Pearce
Nikolas Garcia Nico Novello
Nicholas Sakoi Nevaeh Gutierrez Nathan Apodaca
Mia Borges Melissa Barrera Rodriguez Melanie Muller
Marina Becerra
Marily Huerta
Mariana Contreras Marcos Jimenez Bermudez Macguire Plitt
Luke Felsen Luis Garcia
Lorenn Bleile Logan Anello
Ljuba Saviola
Lilliana McCabe-Borchard Lane Brown
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2026
Dear Class of 2026,
Congratulations on your remarkable achievements! You have exemplified our Graduate Profile competencies of Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness, and Community Engagement. Your hard work, resilience, and dedication have truly shone through your actions, words, and accomplishments. As you step into the future, continue to apply these skills to make a positive impact on the world. We are incredibly proud of you!
The Winters JUSD Family
To Our Wonderful Sta ,
Thank you for your unwavering dedication and hard work in support of our students and families throughout the 2025-2026 school year. Your commitment and care have made a profound di erence in our community. We appreciate all you do.
The Winters JUSD Leadership Team
Winters High School
Kylie Baker Kylee Jackson Kourtnei Hampton
Kevin Corrales
Kenleigh Kratzer
Kailie Spangler Josephine Lundy
Joseline Conchas
Jordan Calvert Jonathan Gonzalez Cacho
Jenifer Ortiz-Franco Jayden Clifford Jayden Blackburn Jacob Woods Jackson Bronson
Izabelle Guzman Izabella Bermudez
Ismene Taylor Hayleigh Gomez Hawk Selleck
Guadalupe Pedraza Mejia Gavyn Moore
Gavin Pisani
Fernanda Blanco Delgado
Emily Bizjack
Eliana Mariscal
Elena Ortiz
Elena Herrera
Diana Valadez Conchas Delila Perez
Crystal Villalba Cristina Martinez
Cheyenne Williams
Charles Carrion
Carlos Ramirez
moved into senior year, describing how quickly “firsts” turned into “lasts,” from senior sunrise to final games and final walks through campus.
“The truth is, life is fast.
One day you’re walking into freshman year nervous about finding your classes… and next you’re sitting here in a cap and gown beside the people who helped shape you into who you are today,” she said.
She closed by emphasizing the collective nature of the class’s experience.
“Every single person played a role in someone else’s story, and I think that’s what makes today so bittersweet.”
Valedictorians share lessons
Three of the 11 valedictorians — Alani Lopez, Kyle Baker and Mia Borges — offered reflections on growth, identity and what comes next.
Lopez, Winters FFA president, focused on stepping outside comfort zones. She shared her personal experience of trying something new her freshman year, which resulted in her making a speech in front of hundreds of people.
“Which Freshman me would never have believed that one small decision would lead me to here tonight… sometimes, the moments that scare us the most become the moments that shape us the most — so just do it,” she said.
Baker connected science and meaning in a reflection on identity and possibility.
“The first law of thermodynamics states that mat-
ter can neither be created nor destroyed, only transformed. You are literally made of stars, Class of 2026,” she said.
She encouraged classmates to pursue purpose while staying grounded in gratitude and perspective.
Borges reflected on leadership and representation, including her role as student representative on the school board and her identity as a first-generation Latina college student, noting her parents “left behind the lives they knew in Mexico and moved to the United States… to build a foundation” for their family.
Students engage in the work
School Board President Joedy Michael emphasized that graduation represents both individual and community effort.
“In Winters, a graduation isn’t just a personal milestone. It’s a community achievement,” he said.
He described district efforts to reexamine what students should gain from school beyond academics.
“We started with one question: What do we want a Winters graduate to look like when they leave here?” Michael said.
He noted that student feedback played a key role in shaping those conversations.
“What came from the older students… was something deeper. They talked about staying engaged, about wanting their education to mean something personal to them,” he said.
Michael also credited staff and the broader community for supporting schools through change.
“That kind of commitment doesn’t always get recognized, but it’s what makes the difference between a school and a community.”
Faculty reflection
“That kind of commitment doesn’t always get recognized, but it’s what makes the difference between a school and a community.”
Joedy Michael, School Board President
Retiring teacher Polita Gonzales delivered a humorous and reflective farewell after 36 years in the district.
“You can hear someone whisper your name from across campus, but not me saying what you’re assigned to do today,” she said.
She reflected on watching students grow and change over time.
“Behind all the noise, the chaos, and the dramatic stories I love to watch people grow,” Gonzales said.
She encouraged students to be present in their final
moments of high school.
“Not having everything figured out, not looking cool every second, just being present enough to enjoy the moment.”
Honors and recognition
The ceremony also recognized academic achievement across the senior class.
Eleven valedictorians were honored with gold cords: Carlos Ramirez, Kevin Corrales, Josephine Lundy, Jackson Bronson, Valeria Reyna, Luke Felsen, Kylie Baker,
Soledad Melendez Huerta, Alani Lopez, Mia Borges and Atlas Roehrs. Ten salutatorians received silver cords: Hawk Selleck, Kylee Jackson, Aidan Tuel, Lilliana McCabe-Borchard, Nico Novello, Jayden Clifford, Mariana Contreras, Ava Muir Vickrey, Zyanya Melendez and Violet Tuel. Scholarship recipients included Ismene Taylor and Jordan Calvert (Doug Baldridge Memorial Scholarship) and Zyanda Melendez and Elena Ortiz (Hugh Randolph Memorial Scholarship).
Closing message
Superintendent Rody Boonchouy closed the ceremony by encouraging graduates to trust the growth they’ve already earned.
“Courage is avoiding failure, but being willing to try again anyways,” he said, paraphrasing a student conversation.
He reminded students that their experiences had already shaped their ability to move forward.
“Graduates, this is your wisdom. It’s there, it’s inside you. Trust in it, and it will serve you well, and all that comes next,” he said.
After being certified as graduates, students released streamers and made their way across the
greeted by cheering
and friends.
field,
families
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Winters High School graduates wait in line, sharing smiles and excitement before crossing the stage to receive their diplomas.
Winters High School graduates toss their caps into the air at the end of the commencement ceremony, celebrating the completion of their high school journey.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Kevin Corrales performs “The Star-Spangled Banner” for the final time as a high school senior at Winters High School.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Winters High School alumnus John Rominger (right) returned to celebrate his sister Rachel Rominger’s graduation.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Jackson Bronson (left) shares a fist bump with teacher librarian Olivia Rodriguez as he crosses the stage to receive his diploma.
Class of 2026 inspires young students
Express staff
As tradition goes, before graduation, Winters High School seniors return to the campuses where many of them began their educational journey. Dressed in caps and gowns, they are greeted with cheers and high-fives from younger students at Waggoner Elementary School, Shirley Rominger Intermediate School, Winters Middle School and, finally, their peers at
WHS as they take part in the annual Senior Walk.
The event traces a symbolic path through time. Beginning at Waggoner Elementary and ending at the high school, seniors retrace their steps through the district, offering younger students a glimpse of what lies ahead. The walk serves as both a celebration of how far they have come and a reminder to current students of the goal ahead: high school graduation.
WHS 2026 scholarship recipients
Express staff
Some Winters High School seniors were awarded scholarships at the annual Senior Awards Night and the Commencement Event.
• Beta Alpha Beta: Violet Tuel ($1,000)
• Dinner on Main: Jackson Bronson ($2,500)
• Friends of Winters
FFA: Alani Lopez, Jackson Bronson, Melissa Barrera Rodriguez, Elena Herrera, Lilliana McCabe-Borchard
• Fortnightly Club of Winters: Kylee Jackson ($500), Kourtnei Hampton ($750), Mia Borges ($1,000)
• George & Margery Kresa Memorial: Sofia Halling ($1,000)
• Grace & Frank Pignataro Sr. Memorial: Carlos Ramirez ($1,000)
• Hodge Foundation: Carlos Ramirez ($1,000)
• Jared Davis Memorial: Luke Felsen ($1,000), Jor dan Calvert ($500)
• Jessica Patricia Or tiz-Mendoza and Lupe
Ortiz Si Se Puede Me morial: Lilliana McCabe Borchard, Soledad Melendez Huerta ($500 each)
• Kate Humphrey Kind ness Scholarship: Jackson Bronson ($500)
• Marine Corps League/ Jack Graf Scholarship: Kylie Jackson ($1,000)
• McMahon Graf: Alani Lopez ($2,000)
Jayden Clifford
• Michael Bazan-Jimenez Memorial: Anthony Matamoros, Alani Lopez, Mia Borges, Luke Felsen ($1,000 each); Kailie Spangler, Elena Ortiz, Jayden Clifford, Carlos Ramirez, Violet Tuel ($500 each)
• Mariani Nut Company: Angel Garcia, Cristina Martinez, Leslie Torres, Marily Huerta, Valeria Reyna, Melissa Barrera Rodriguez
• Nick McClellan
“Mr. Mac” Memorial: Sofia Halling, Ricki Rodriguez ($500 each)
• Noah Lichwa Memorial: Violet Tuel, Kylie Baker,
Rotary Club of WinLuke Felsen, Mia Borges, Violet Tuel, Lilliana McCabe Borchard ($2,000 each) Travis Credit Union: Mia Borges ($2,000)
• William J. Green Memorial Scholarship: Luke Felsen ($1,000)
• Winters AYSO/Alfredro Rodriguez Memorial-Elena Ortiz, Violet Tuel
• Winters Community Corazon/Maria Gutierrez Memorial: Melissa Barrera Rodriguez, Mariana Contreras
• Winters Music Boosters: Kevin Corrales, Sara Doyle ($500)
• Winters Robotics: Luke Felsen, Josie Lundy, Carlos Ramirez
• Winters Youth Day: Violet Tuel, Jackson Bronson, Lane Brown, Jordan Calvert
• Yolo County Concilio-Alani Lopez, Carlos Ramirez ($500 each)
• Anonymous: Jordan Calvert, Violet Tuel, Josie Lundy, Jayden Clifford, Mia Borges, Zyanya Melendez ($500 each)
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Gavin Pisani hugs his youngest brother, Dax, at Waggoner Elementary School during the Senior Walk.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Seniors offer high-fives to the youngest learners at Waggoner Elementary School as they walk around the playground visiting with each class.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Winters Middle School students congratulate seniors as they depart campus and head back to Winters High School
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Students at Shirley Rominger Intermediate School welcome seniors with handmade signs during the Senior Walk.
Students walk across campus toward the C Building, the final stop of their Senior Walk at Winters High School, marking the end of the annual district tradition.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Cameron Del Rio
Aylin Ochoa Torres
Ava Muir Vickrey
Ava Back
Atticus Caligari
Atlas Roehrs Aslam Hernandez
Ashley Rivas
Arturo Medina Diaz Antonio Matamoros Mayes
Angel Garcia Angel Alcazar Ausencio Amir Jihad
Alejandro Murillo Cerrillo
Alani Lopez
Aaron Velo Lopez
Adylene Huerta Lopez
Aidan Tuel
Apilado/ Winters Express
Leading the way
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today,” said Frederick Douglass. The members of Winters High School’s Class of 2026 have spent years preparing for their next chapter. Whether their plans include military service, entering the workforce, pursuing an apprenticeship or trade, or continuing their education at a community college or university, graduates are ready to embark on new journeys.
Among them are students who achieved the distinction of valedictorian or salutatorian, honors recognizing the class’s highest academic achievers based on gradepoint averages.
Dr. Taylor Langdon, DC specializes in family, prenatal, sports, and animal chiropractic. Dr. Taylor is Webster technique certified through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) to treat pregnant women. Dr. Taylor received her animal chiropractic certification through the Animal Chiropractic Education Source (ACES). She treats small animals in her office and commutes to barns for large animals. Her mission is to provide quality chiropractic care to all people and animals in each stage of life.
Members of the Winters High School Class of 2026 celebrated their graduation during the school’s 130th annual commencement ceremony on June 4.
total of 107 students received diplomas.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
ABOVE: The Winters High School Class of 2026 valedictorians are (back) Carlos Ramirez, Kevin Corrales, Josephine Lundy, Jackson Bronson, Valeria Reyna and Luke Felsen; and (front) Kylie Baker, Soledad Melendez Huerta, Alani Lopez, Mia Borges and Atlas Roehrs. Valedictorians were recognized with gold cords. ABOVE LEFT: The 2026 salutatorians are (back) Hawk Selleck, Kylee Jackson, Aidan Tuel, Lilliana McCabe-Borchard and Nico Novello; and (front) Jayden Clifford, Mariana Contreras, Ava Muir Vickrey, Zyanya Melendez and Violet Tuel. Salutatorians were recognized with silver cords.
