Two Rio Salado College students received honors in April, earning recognition for their perseverance, academic progress and commitment to building brighter futures through education.
Esteban Salinas was named the 2026 Arizona Association for Lifelong Learning HSE (High School Equivalency) Workforce Student of the Year. Ángel Gaytan Betancourt was honored as the 2026 Arizona Association for Lifelong Learning ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Workforce Student of the year.
Together, their stories reflect the power of adult education to open doors, strengthen families and support career growth.
Adult Learner Balances School, Family to Complete High School Equivalency Diploma
Salinas, a student in Rio Salado’s Adult Education Program, began his journey in April 2025. After time away from public education, he returned to the classroom with determination, balancing school with long work hours, family responsibilities and career goals. He completed his Civics Test and earned passing scores in Reading/Language Arts, Social Studies and Science. He is now focused on strengthening his math skills as he prepares to complete his final GED test and earn his high school equivalency diploma.
His nomination from Instructor Senior Tina Brechbiel described him as a student who brings, “a warm smile, positive energy, and a collaborative spirit” to class. Classmates often turned to him for support, and he is known for encouraging others while also being open about asking for help when he needs it.
Salinas’ success also extends to the workplace. He works for a large convenience store company and earned a promotion from shift lead to assistant manager. He also completed multiple certifications from the National Retail Federation Foundation, using those credentials to strengthen his leadership skills and support his career advancement. Most recently, he was accepted into the Adults Achieving a College Education (AACE) program, continuing his commitment to workforce training and long-term career growth.
His achievements are even more meaningful given his responsibilities at home. In spring 2025, Salinas and his partner became primary caregivers for his one-month-old niece. Through work, school, tutoring and family caregiving, he has remained focused on creating a stable future for his family.
Motivation Drives Student’s Goal to Earn Degree
Gaytan Betancourt’s recognition highlights another powerful example of persistence and purpose. Motivated by his goal of earning a college degree and pursuing a future in entrepreneurship or management, he has been taking both ESOL classes and for-credit courses through Rio Salado’s AACE program. His nomination noted his academic growth from an intermediate learner to surpassing the highest levels in reading and listening assessments.
His progress is visible beyond test results. Gaytan Betancourt grew from a shy student into an active and supportive classmate who helps others, especially with challenging grammar and vocabulary, said Dr. Brandon Ranallo-Benavidez, Instructor Senior. His nomination describes Gaytan Betancourt as someone whose “determination and adaptability” position him for continued success in higher education and career preparation.
Gaytan Betancourt’s goals are clear. He plans to complete the AACE program, continue strengthening his academic English and prepare for college-level coursework. Long term, he hopes to earn a degree and pursue a career in business or leadership, where he can use his skills to guide and support others.
His educational journey is also inspiring his family, friends and classmates. Gaytan Betancourt’s success has shown others “what is possible when determination meets opportunity,” according to his discussion with Dr. Brandon. He encourages classmates when they feel discouraged and helps them overcome self-doubt.
Both students embody Rio Salado’s commitment to meeting learners where they are and helping them move forward. Their achievements show that adult education is more than a credential. It is a pathway to confidence, career opportunity, family stability and lifelong learning.
As Salinas and Gaytan Betancourt continue their journeys, their state recognition celebrates not only what they have already accomplished, but the promise of what comes next.