Indianapolis Public Schools highlighted graduating senior Diego Rincon in its Graduation Spotlight series on May 20. The feature shares the experiences of students preparing to graduate, focusing on their challenges, achievements, and influential people during their time at IPS.
The series aims to celebrate the growth and resilience of the Class of 2026 while showing how IPS schools, educators, families, and communities have contributed to student success. Rincon is a senior at Arsenal Technical High School who has participated in service projects through Key Club and engaged with STEM opportunities as a member of the school’s robotics team.
Rincon described his junior year as a pivotal moment: “A moment that could be a turning point was my junior year. It was the year I had to lock in the most. It’s the year things get difficult, and you really have to turn everything in on time. A class I learned this in was Bio 102. We had a lot more work than I was used to, and procrastinated. I didn’t get the grade I wanted because I didn’t lock in like I needed to. This taught me to take school seriously and put in the effort to achieve what I want to.” He also said he is proud of being nominated for Tech Legion by teachers and being selected for Latin honors: “They’re the biggest awards our school gives out. This matters to me because it shows my hard work mattered. It makes me confident that I will be able to continue my success and achieve outside of high school.”
Reflecting on mentorship at Arsenal Tech, Rincon said: “Mr. Adams is my robotics coach. He has always shown his belief in me. From the moment I met him, I’ve known he’s believed in me. I know he wants me to be better for the future.” On personal growth since freshman year he added: “As a freshman, I didn’t know what high school would be like… After junior year…I was able to lock in and focus on achieving what I wanted.” Looking ahead after graduation Rincon said: “I’m most excited to make connections in college…I want to open my own shop one day focused on repairing vehicles…Two goals are graduate debt-free and learn skills necessary for my field.” For incoming freshmen his advice is: “Expect the unexpected…For social activities you should make connections and join clubs…it looks great for your record…You also make friends which makes you a better person…you also learn how communicate effectively which you’ll have do lot future.”
Indianapolis Public Schools emphasizes racial equity as a core strategic priority while serving over 30,000 students through tailored education programs designed for central Indianapolis families; Aleesia Johnson serves as superintendent according to Indianapolis Public Schools.
The Graduation Spotlight series continues with more stories from seniors across IPS as they prepare for new chapters beyond high school.
