Backpacks in hand and futures in focus, students in the Long Island Latino Teachers Association Young Women Summer Institute wrapped up a week of hands-on learning with a special visit from Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera.

Ortiz-Rivera encouraged students to embrace the district’s Graduation PLUS+ initiative and challenged them to think critically about their goals, passions and purpose. She also distributed Brentwood-branded backpacks stuffed with school supplies – ensuring each student is ready to step confidently into the new school year.

Throughout the week, students took part in an intensive program designed to empower them to make informed decisions about college and careers. The LILTA Summer Institute delivered an energetic blend of college readiness workshops, career planning seminars, and one-on-one mentoring sessions – giving students practical tools to shape their future. From writing standout admissions essays to mapping out long-term goals, participants received personal guidance at every step.

The program – open to high school young ladies in grades 9 through 12 – also offered a series of immersive college tours. Over the course of just three days, students visited Adelphi University, Stony Brook University, and Molloy University, gaining a firsthand glimpse of campus life, classrooms and student culture.

Beyond academics, the week included a visit to Soccer Shots, a youth soccer program focused on character-building through sport. There, students learned about job opportunities in coaching and youth development. The experience was balanced with wellness and connection – Pilates, yoga, bowling, group lunches and team-building icebreakers brought joy and movement to the week’s fast-paced schedule.

A special thanks to Marisol Pagan, Kelly Ureña and Dafny Irizarry for their tireless efforts and dedication to this meaningful program.