Project UP-START

Project UP-START assists families and students living in unstable housing situations in Miami-Dade County.

[MDCPS Division of Student & Family Support Pgrms. @MDCPSTitleI]

The Division of Student and Family Support Programs and Project UP‑START joined the 2025–2026 College Care Suitcase Initiative to celebrate 70 incredible seniors who overcame housing challenges and are officially college‑bound! 🌟

[Jose L. Dotres, Ed.D. @SuptDotres]

Every year, I am deeply inspired by this initiative. Special thanks to @MDCPS’s @ProjectUPSTART and our donors for “The College Care Suitcase.” These essentials give our college-bound students the confidence to thrive and remind them that their stories matter. #YourBestChoiceMDCPS

[The Shop @ MDCPS @MDCPS_TheShop]

We had a great time at the @MDCPSTitleI End-of-Year Meeting & HOPE Awards! It was wonderful connecting with CIS/CLS teams from across the district.Congratulations to our outstanding staff members, Maydelis Lajud and Juan Cardenas, for their extraordinary work this school year.

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

Karen Fryd, thank you for inviting Project UP-START to the Take a Walk in Her Shoes event. We were honored to celebrate your well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your continued support of our students and families!

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

OLE’ Yesterday, @MDCPSTitleI hosted a wonderful Staff Appreciation Luncheon. We enjoyed spending time together away from our offices. It was a special opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication our team shows every day in serving students and families.

[Jose L. Dotres, Ed.D. @SuptDotres]

Prom Season may be ending at @MDCPS, but the gratitude isn’t. Thank you to the staff who support 60–100 students weekly, and to the generous partners whose donations to the @ProjectUPSTART Prom Boutique at @Lindsey_HTC ensure every student has what they need to shine. #YourBestChoiceMDCPS

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

Today we welcomed seniors from @mccchiefs63 to the Prom Boutique! The students had a great time finding the perfect look for their special night. We love helping our seniors get prom ready!

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

A heartfelt THANK YOU to @sunsetinternationalm National Elementary Honor Society
We truly appreciate your generous donation. Because of you, we will be able to serve so many more families in need. Your kindness and commitment to giving back does not go unnoticed!

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

Our children were so excited to join us and experience what it’s like to support students and families across @MDCPS. It was a day full of learning, connection, and inspiration as they saw firsthand the impact of the work we do every day.

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

We had the opportunity to attend the FPP Community Partners Luncheon—an incredible experience focused on connection and collaboration. Together, we’re sharing resources and partnerships to better support our students and families. @FIU @suptdotres @miamischools @mdcpstitlei

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

@itechmegamagnet seniors had an amazing time at the Prom Boutique—they are officially prom ready! Students received a variety of items to help them prepare for their special night. ✨

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

We are incredibly grateful to @GivingGators for hosting a prom gown drive that resulted in the donation of over 300 gowns, along with purses and accessories. Because of your generosity, so many of our students will have the opportunity to attend prom feeling confident.

[Miami-Dade Schools @MDCPS]

Every student deserves a magical prom night. Thanks to @ProjectUPSTART, M‑DCPS seniors in need can access free prom attire and support for senior activities. #YourBestChoiceMDCPS

https://t.co/93AM6CStXZ

[Jose L. Dotres, Ed.D. @SuptDotres]

The magic of prom season has officially arrived! @miamiedisonsr’s visit to the Prom Boutique is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community. Thank you to our incredible team @ProjectUPSTART and our partners, whose generosity helps turn dreams into reality for our students! #YourBestChoiceMDCPS

[The Shop @ MDCPS @MDCPS_TheShop]

We welcomed @nmbchargers to the Prom Boutique! Our students had an amazing time exploring and picking out everything they need for a memorable Prom night.

[The Shop @ MDCPS @MDCPS_TheShop]

Today, we welcomed students from @mccchiefs63 the Prom Boutique! They were so grateful for all the items they received to help them prepare for their special Prom night.

[Project UP-START @ProjectUPSTART]

April is Autism Awareness Month💙
We are committed to creating a community where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. This month, we celebrate the unique strengths, voices, and experiences of individuals with autism.

[The Shop @ MDCPS @MDCPS_TheShop]

Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior High School, had an amazing time at the Prom Boutique! They found everything they needed and are officially ready for Prom Night!

[The Shop @ MDCPS @MDCPS_TheShop]

And we’re BACK!
We hope all of our students and their families had an amazing and restful Spring Break!
Did you know? The SHOP is now open and ready to serve you! 💙
🕒 Monday–Friday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
🚶‍♀️ Walk-ins and appointments are available!