King of the month

This month’s Student of the Month is Matthew Pineda Rios.

Matt is a walking testament to faith, hard work, and passion. This young TFI King has spent three years with us and has undergone a transformation right before our eyes. Matt has always been a kind, compassionate, and trustworthy young man; his love for his family and his community has always been strong. From our first year working with Matt, we knew that he struggled, but we did not believe his academics were the primary challenge. He struggled to stay in class, to stay engaged, and to remain at school. He was open and honest with the TFI team about his mental health and the anxiety he dealt with. His vulnerability was inspiring to see from a King at such an early stage in high school. He continued to show up to our space, to value the meetings and the brotherhood, and he was always honest about what he needed and how he wanted to show up. This allowed the TFI team to be informed in our work with this young King. We created routines with him, encouraged his involvement in other activities, and tried our best to stay connected with him at every step. We watched Matt bring all of the brilliance that he has within himself out. He allows his gifts and his beautiful spirit of community to benefit those around him; he is an active driver of change and justice at San Leandro High School. The young man we met in 2023, who didn’t see himself as a successful student, just finished a semester with straight A’s.

Matt, we could not be more proud of you. Thank you for allowing us to be by your side as you take your crown out of your pocket and rock it.