Click on the above image for more photos of the WALA students' visit to WeCAN.
May 14, 2025 — Students at the Westonka Alternative Learning Academy (WALA) visited Western Communities Action Network (WeCAN) on May 14, as part of their year-long curriculum which includes a variety of career development activities.
WALA Coordinator Todd Munsterteiger said the class really focused on life after high school this year. The class took a tour at Minneapolis Community and Technical College, and hosted local businessperson Scotty Bjorlin, who spoke about the importance of workplace skills. The visit to WeCAN provided students with information about resources that are available in the community if needed, and offered volunteer opportunities on how they can give back to other folks who are in need. Following the WeCAN visit, the class visited the school property at County Roads 110 and 44 to explore a potential community service project for next year.
“We feel it's important for our students to have a plan after high school, gain soft skills, and understand the work ethic needed in the workplace,” said Munsterteiger. “We focus on activities like these, especially out in the community, to promote life-long learners who are productive members of society.”
About WALA
The Westonka Alternative Learning Academy (WALA) offers a school within a school alternative learning program at Mound Westonka High School. It serves students who have been identified as at risk.
The WALA program fosters a structured environment that helps students increase their basic skills, connects them to their community, and challenges them to be lifelong learners. An innovative curriculum, a low student-teacher ratio, a caring, enthusiastic staff and a safe classroom environment help students build self-respect and create options for their futures.
The WALA program includes required coursework in the four core disciplines: English, Social Studies, Math, and Science; as well as an option for work experience credit. The WALA curriculum is innovative and includes interdisciplinary and project-based learning units that provide rigor and relevance to learning.
