Student-Driven Dialogue Highlights Youth Voice, Leadership, and Community Engagement

Minneapolis, MN — Three students from MTS Secondary recently hosted Minnesota State Senator Scott Dibble and State Representative Samantha Sencer-Mura in the school’s podcast studio for a student-led conversation on leadership, public service, and the realities of governing during complex times.

Students Jai, Yailla, and Maya guided the discussion, asking questions that ranged from the legislators’ most influential childhood teachers and paths to public office to current community concerns, including the presence of ICE in Minneapolis and across the state.

The exchange was candid and reflective. Legislators acknowledged the weight of the moment and encouraged students to remain engaged.

“What you are seeing is real.”

“We have things we can do — stand up as leaders.”

“Continue to raise our voices. Stay connected, positive, and be truth-tellers. This is a long game. We don’t know what’s next.”

The visit reflects MTS Secondary’s commitment to experiential learning — giving students the opportunity to practice dialogue, inquiry, and critical thinking in real time.

“Our students need to know that their voices matter.” said the Superintendent of Minnesota Transitions Charter School, Shawn Fondow. “They need to know the place they hold in civic life.”

“For many of our students, politics can feel distant or uncertain. Inviting legislators into our podcast studio sends a clear message: you belong in these conversations. Your questions are worthy. Your leadership is needed.”

By creating space for direct engagement with elected officials, MTS Secondary continues to model civic education not as theory, but as lived experience — grounded in courage, respect, and community connection.

As the conversation ended, Senator Dibble shared, “There’s always hope. Your showing up in this school, seeing all the positivity and the general feeling of happiness at the school gives me hope.”

“Talking to you all has been the most hopeful moment for me,” shared Representative Sencer-Mura.