Students from Euclid Middle School’s Latinos in Action (LIA) program had an unforgettable and empowering experience at the statewide LIA Conference held in April at Red Rocks Community College. Joining middle and high school students from across Colorado, Euclid’s seventh and eighth graders immersed themselves in a day filled with leadership development, cultural celebration, and community building.

The conference, hosted by the Latinos in Action organization, featured dynamic keynote speaker Daisy Cedeno, who inspired students to embrace their identity and believe in their future. Students participated in workshops led by business and community leaders–including sessions on mental health, leadership, and Latino culture, some presented by LPS staff. There was also time for students to connect with peers, enjoy music and dance, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Euclid students left their mark on the conference through several standout achievements:

• Three student groups earned Honorable Mention in the Short Film Competition:
  Group 1: Esme O'Brien, Sierra Attel, Andru Canseco Avendano, and Daizy Medina
  Group 2: Veronica Ramos Inzurriaga, and Sophia Zamora Jimenez
  Group 3: John Cardoza III, Corbin Patino, and Silas Saadeh

• Two students won Third Place in the Visual Arts category:
  Adrian Escandon and Jamison Ahrenholtz

• Euclid dancers performed twice, showcasing their talents to a cheering crowd:
  Selin Gavarete and Lily Santistevan

Dr. Enriquez, founder of LIA, personally praised Euclid teacher Abbe Guarino for the positive impact she is having on her students through the LIA program. That sentiment is echoed in the students’ own reflections: they shared that the conference helped them to feel seen, valued, and proud of their culture. One student said the day helped them “feel confident in who I am and excited about what I can do for others.”

In total, 38 Euclid students attended the event and participated in competitions across all categories offered for middle schoolers: performance, visual arts, short film, and writing. The experience not only celebrated their creative talents but also strengthened their bonds with classmates and deepened their commitment to being leaders and role models in the community.

“LIA provides a space for students to grow in their leadership skills, build confidence, and find community,” said Ms. Guarino. “They support one another and serve as positive examples in our school and throughout the LPS community.”

The energy, joy, and growth students experienced at the LIA Conference will no doubt continue to inspire them for years to come, and LPS looks forward to seeing these students’ impact in the remainder of their school careers.