OHS STRIDE is a program for students grades 9-12 with developmental disabilities. STRIDE is made up of three teachers, seven full-time and three part-time paraprofessionals and 25 students.

Last year, Special Education teachers Kerry Much, Michele Ulferts and Marilyn Olson applied for a grant through the 761 Foundation to create a coffee cart to be run by STRIDE students and to sell and deliver coffee to teachers. Throughout the 2022-23 school year this has grown into a collaboration with Owatonna company Straight River Coffee which has created the opportunity to work with Hy-Vee and Fareway.

STRIDE Coffee was created to give students “real world” work experience and to raise money for their functional skills program. STRIDE emphasizes the importance of spending time out in the community to build functional and community skills. The profits from STRIDE Coffee make it possible for STRIDE students to go on field trips and outreaches. These opportunities are geared towards preparing students for further education or entering the workforce after graduation. 

Freshman Andrew Ballstadt said, “Selling coffee is the greatest thing, it’s always been my dream.” This is an incredible opportunity for students to make new memories with friends and have the chance to be involved in something unique. 

STRIDE partnered with Straight River Coffee to create a special brew called STRIDE HUSKY PRIDE blend coffee. The STRIDE students had the opportunity to take a field trip to Straight River Coffee and see the entire coffee making process from start to finish. They were also able to taste and smell the coffee. 

Special Education teacher Ms.Ulferts said, “Straight River Coffee has been fantastic.” The overwhelming support from local businesses has played a huge role in the success of this coffee business. 

Straight River Coffee and STRIDE have partnered with Hy-Vee and Fareway to offer a limited amount of their special brew to be purchased in store this spring. In the fall, STRIDE held a fundraiser where students took orders and delivered them directly. STRIDE also offers a coffee cart available to staff only on compass mornings. At the new high school, STRIDE hopes to utilize the professional kitchen to brew their own coffee and continue the coffee cart. 

This coffee brand has had a tremendous impact on the students involved in building important skills and relationships. Owatonna faculty and students are eager to see where this coffee business leads to in the future.