“Most students get jobs working at fast food chains or hard labor and learn to resent them. I was able to find an amazing job that fit my schedule, skills, and interests. I also made connections I’ll have for the rest of my life. I learned important working habits such as being on time and respecting subordinates just as much as superiors – and had countless times to practice being patient. Ro made such an impact on my life, and I know that I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without the opportunity to work through CMJTS and meet the amazing people I did.”

Lukas applied for the information technology (IT) assistant position at Mora High School in 2014. Interviewers were impressed by his enthusiasm and intelligence, and he was hired for the position. Lukas was enrolled in the Minnesota Youth Program (MYP) so the Mora School District and CMJTS could split the cost of his hourly wages through the MYP Protégé Program. His work schedule was built into his school day and he provided IT assistance in the school’s media center to both faculty and students. Lukas learned work skills and additional technology skills through this experience. Both were reinforced by his mentor and supervisor Roberta “Ro” Haight.
Lukas concluded his protégé position and graduated from high school with honors on June 5, 2016. He will be starting college at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities in the fall. He plans to major in engineering.

“CMJTS offered me something I’d never expect to find in high school.”