LOFT's "I Can Teach" model increases leadership skills and learning for middle and high schoolers. Through "I Can Teach", experienced youth coach less experienced youth on Career and Technical Education (CTE) skills. We have regular trainings throughout the year to increase the leadership abilities of our more experienced students.

We're very proud to share that the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction asked to highlight this program on their website as an example of college and career readiness and social emotional learning skills working together! Scroll down to watch the video and see some recent examples of our youth leading youth.

Wisconsin DPI highlights our youth teachers!

Girls Inc. Youth Mentors

Recently, our middle school Girls Inc. participants helped facilitate a discussion with 3rd-5th graders, serving as mentors and leading icebreakers and discussions. The middle schoolers shared about their experiences with Girls Inc, how they focus on relationship skills, and all get along to support each other.

Youth Teaching Youth Culinary Skills

This fall, several of our experienced TEENworks employees worked to train the new cohort of youth to join our different culinary departments. TEENworks employees also work as teachers-aids to be leaders in our middle school cooking club!