Maria Ervasti

• Lead regional workforce and career pathway initiatives by bringing together schools, employers, nonprofits, local government, workforce agencies, and community partners across rural Minnesota.

• Supports schools in implementing asset-based and community-centered approaches to career readiness and student engagement
• Has developed collaborative partnerships that strengthen local economies and increase opportunities for youth to remain and work within their home communities
• Has coordinated large-scale grant-funded programming focused on workforce development, agriculture, and community-based food systems
• Utilizes data-informed evaluation tools to strengthen program effectiveness and long-term sustainability
• Uses art as a medium for community engagement, connection, and a catalyst for economic growth

• Expanded art program to include elementary art, enhancing student engagement and creativity
• Collaborated to create and teach the STEAM Stars program
• Coordinated organization of regional MSHSL art competition, facilitating a successful multi-faceted event
• Managed budget through creative resourcing and community support, ensuring program sustainability

• Promoted art education in rural MN by serving as a shared art teacher at Verndale Public School and Bertha-Hewitt School, enhancing access to creative programs for students.

• Designed scaffolded lessons and facilitated engaging art events and classes for adults with disabilities, promoting creativity and self-expression
• Developed and taught inclusive art curriculum addressing diverse audiences and learning needs
• Organized art exhibitions to showcase student work within the community

• Completed student teaching, practicum, and community arts experience across elementary, middle, high school, and alternative educational settings in Minnesota and North Dakota, focusing on multilingual learners, at-risk youth, adults with disabilities, and implementing early literacy interventions through AmeriCorps Reading Corps.