Welcome to MAAP STARS

Celebrating students who excel in alternative education.

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Unleash Your Potential with MAAP STARS

MAAP STARS is a comprehensive program designed to help you unlock your talents, develop your skills, and reach your full potential. With a team of experienced educators, administrators, and creatives, we provide the guidance and support you need to excel in your alternative school journey.

Get Involved with MAAP STARS

Learn. Make. Network. Compete. Excel. Lead.

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Get Started with MAAP STARS

Bring MAAP STARS to your school

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Fall Leadership Conference

Join us for our annual Fall Leadership Conference to develop your leadership skills.

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The Alchemist

An art and literary magazine published and sponsored by MAAP.

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Legislative Day

Advocate for alternative education at MAAP STARS Day on the Hill.

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Spring Conference Information

Join us for our annual Spring Conference to learn, connect, and compete!

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FAQs

What the Heck is MAAP STARS?

Find answers to common questions about the MAAP STARS program, including eligibility, cost, and how to join.

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What is MAAP STARS?

The Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs (MAAP) began a student organization back in 1993 to recognize students who have chosen to fulfill their academic career in a different setting.

The organization’s name is MAAP STARS. STARS stands for Success, Teamwork, Achievement, Recognition and Self-esteem. Its vision is: Achieving extraordinary life changing results for learners throughout the world. The motto is: "We Make A Difference!"

For over 30+ years, MAAP STARS has been making a difference for students and their STARS Advisors. Each school/program can have a STARS Chapter. Some offer it as an elective class and students earn class credits for the work they complete. Others may run it like a vocational club. Many choose to have it be incorporated into the various course curriculum and offer credit through the different academic classes. There’s an annual membership fee that entitles schools to participate in the three state-wide events each year. Those events are: Fall Leadership Conference, Legislative Day at the State Capitol and the Spring Events Conference. MAAP also encourages the MAAP Regions to offer STARS events within their regions throughout the school year.

Still confused? Check out this explainer: What the Heck is MAAP STARS?

What all is involved?

Your school determines how to become involved in MAAP STARS. There is not one way to become involved. Start with one state-wide or regional event. The majority of schools begin by participating in the Spring Events Conference. MAAP STARS can also be an elective course at your school.

MAAP STARS is the ONLY organization designed by and just for students enrolled in an alternative education school. Contact maapstarschair@maapmn.org for help in determining how to begin. A mentor MAAP STARS teacher is available to talk or meet with you and answer any questions.

Is there cost to join the MAAP STARS?

There is an annual fee to become a MAAP STARS Chapter. There are registration fees for two of the three state-wide events. School costs would include transportation, lodging, and sub costs.

Registration fees for the Fall Leadership Conference and the Spring Events Conference include the annual chapter member fee.

What is the point?

The purpose of MAAP STARS is to support students across the state in developing employment, academic, and social skills.

MAAP STARS students get to:

• Experience career related activities that in turn assist students in making an informed career choice.

• Build a cooperative and competitive spirit through individual and team activities and competition.

• Strengthen social skills and build an appreciation for the responsibilities of citizenship, brotherhood, and the American free enterprise system.

• To develop self-confidence, increase motivation, and create a desire for and belief in life- long learning.

•Meet with, have fun with, and ultimately develop an appreciation for students and staff from other alternative programs.

How can I join?

The easiest way to get started is to email our dedicated staff: MAAP STARS Chair.

How do I nominate an Advisor or Student?

To nominate an Advisor or Student of the Year, please complete the form at the link below. Be prepared to include the qualities and reasons why you are nominating this person as Advisor or Student of the year.

MAAP STARS Advisor of the Year Nomination Form

MAAP Student of the Year Nomination Form

MAAP

MAAP STARS Officers

Do you have a student that would like to be a MAAP STARS Officer?

Are you a student that would like to be a MAAP STARS Officer, or a Student Leader?

MAAP STARS Officers are elected by their peers at the Fall Leadership Conference. A candidate for officer is expected to attend virtual monthly meetings, two in person leadership trainings, and a conference planning session.

If you are interested in being a Student Leader, or have a student that you think would be a great member of the MAAP STARS Student Leadership Team, but is maybe not ready to be an officer, being a Student Leader is a great place to start.

Contact MAAP STARS Chair (maapstarschair@maapmn.org) for more information.

MAAP STARS Candidate &
Student Leader Info

Nominate someone today!

Nominate a deserving student or educator for
MAAP Student of the year, or
MAAP STARS Advisor of the Year

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