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EducationFeatured

MPS Pioneers Education-Industry Connection through MYCA Program

by Laurie Struna November 1, 2023November 3, 2023
written by Laurie Struna November 1, 2023November 3, 2023

Mesa Public Schools is breaking new ground by launching the Mesa Youth Creative Agency (MYCA) program, a transformative initiative offering teens real-world experience in diverse creative fields, such as graphic design, 3D design, video production, branding, painting, and more. 

Inspired by a visit to Artists for Humanity (AFH) in Boston, Dr. Andi Fourlis, superintendent at Mesa Public Schools, saw the potential for connecting education and industry in a profound way. AFH, founded by Susan Rodgerson, provides a nurturing space for young artists to learn and create after school. Building on the model, MYCA aspires to be the first of its kind, offering teens invaluable mentoring opportunities, hands-on work experience, and an avenue to build impressive portfolios. 

Christy Cuddy, director coordinator of MYCA and former principal at Highland Arts Elementary School, asserts, “Mesa Public Schools is pioneering a new approach by tangibly connecting teens with the creative industry. We’re not just another after-school program; we’re a full-fledged creative agency. Our focus on business and marketing skills sets us apart, preparing our teens for successful futures.”

Christy emphasizes the program’s transformative impact on participants, sharing, “When our teens complete the MYCA program, they’ll possess an extraordinary resume and a wealth of hands-on experience. Their creative prowess will be unrivaled, sparing them the need for basic graphic design classes.”

 The MYCA team understands the power of networking and industry connections in fostering success. Bailey Vidler, a MYCA studio manager, states, “Our mission is to ensure our teens have a robust launchpad for their future careers. By cultivating relationships with universities and industry professionals, we empower our teens to thrive beyond the program.”

Teen mentor and studio manager Paul Hebron shares the program provides a fresh perspective on youth engagement, explaining, “Unlike traditional approaches where adults try to understand young audiences, MYCA reverses the dynamic by hiring teens to speak to their peers. This paradigm shift allows us to infuse fresh ideas and unique insights into our work with clients.”

As MYCA blazes a trail connecting education with industry, Mesa Public Schools envisions a future where creative minds blossom and flourish in their passions. The program’s emphasis on mentorship, industry exposure, and experiential learning sets a high standard for empowering the next generation of creative professionals.

For more information regarding MYCA, please contact Christy Cuddy at (480) 308-7304.

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