This school year, Orono Public Schools has been fortunate to host AmeriCorps Promise Fellow, Lexi Ostvig. Throughout her year of service, Ostvig has supported students while gaining valuable experience that aligns with her future goals in social work. According to Minnesota Alliance With Youth, “AmeriCorps Promise Fellows serve as caring adults who use evidence-based, data-driven solutions to support, mentor, and build positive relationships with young people in grades 6-12 on their path to high school graduation.”
For Ostvig, the opportunity was also a chance to return to a community that played an important role in her own life. A 2021 graduate of Orono Schools, she was already familiar with the Promise Fellow program through her previous work with Orono Community Education. “After finishing college and gaining experience in different job positions, I decided it would be a good time to give back to my community,” Ostvig said.
When asked about the most impactful part of her work, Ostvig pointed to the students. “My favorite part of this work is seeing students build confidence in their abilities,” she said. “There are moments where students feel incapable of what is being asked of them. It feels great to encourage them and help them grow.” She especially enjoys when students come back to share success, whether it’s a strong test score or a newfound understanding of a concept being taught in class.
As her year of service comes to a close, Ostvig leaves behind meaningful relationships, stronger student connections, and a positive impact on the students she worked with throughout the year.
Promise Fellows receive a modest living allowance, qualified federal student loan forbearance, and an education award. Both full- and part-time positions are available for the 2026-27 school year, running from September 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. This program is a great opportunity for recent graduates, college students, career changers, and others interested in making a difference in the lives of young people. Additional benefit information is available at www.mnyouth.net. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older by the program start date.
Would you like to learn more about the AmeriCorps Promise Fellow position at Orono Schools? To learn more or apply, please contact Genna Torney at genna.torney@orono.k12.mn.us or call 952-449-8360.
Minnesota Youth. “Promise Fellows.” MNYouth.net, 2026, https://mnyouth.net/americorps/join-the-corps/promise-fellows/