Striking Positivity and Inspiration in the PS Institute

When schools closed as a result of the MPS teacher strike in early spring, Project Success Facilitator Alana McQuirter saw an opportunity to lean in for our students. Connecting with the North High School family liaison, it came to her attention that there were students at North who were looking for something to do during the day. And, despite schools being closed, they were coming to school anyway. Reaching out to PS’ Schools and Curriculum Director Laura Garcia, there was a question of what Project Success could do to help.  

Consequently, a day of programming at the PS Institute was provided. The interest broadened as the event was developed and the offering expanded to all Minneapolis public high schools.  

Focused on making sure everyone could comfortably participate, students cooked an easy-going budget-friendly meal of pasta with chickpeas and tomatoes. Afterward, students had a thoughtful lesson surrounding budget with Alana, and North High Facilitator Noah Branch. The basics of finance were centered around creating a budget based on their dreams and priorities.  

When speaking about the event, James Rone, PS Institute Manger, noted, “The energy [in the room] was pretty high! We knew some of the kids. Some of the kids we were meeting for the first time. We got to cook a meal together, and they did a personal finance lesson with Alana. Everyone participated.

“I’m grateful to Alana and the family liaison at North for letting us know there was a need. And for it to give us the incentive to get the wheels moving at Project Success… I’m glad we pulled together on relatively short notice a fun day for students who were looking for something to do.” 

This effort was made possible due to the efforts of our facilitators, program coordinators, directors, and managers. Project Success is centered on “Kids First” and when there’s a need for our students in the community, we’ll be there.