Week 2 - Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking (crit·i·cal think·ing) Means taking time to think clearly and carefully before making a decision. It’s about asking questions, looking at all sides of a situation, and using facts—not just opinions—to solve problems or make choices.

Check out the resources below for why critical thinking is an important real-world skill and how you can apply it this week through out your internship!

ImBlaze Check-in 

Song Of The Week

Frank Ocean’s Thinkin Bout You is more than just a vibe—it’s a reminder that what we think about matters. Whether it's relationships, goals, or next steps, our thoughts shape how we move. This week’s theme is critical thinking, and just like in the song, it’s about going deeper. Instead of taking things at surface level, we’re learning to pause, ask better questions, and understand what’s really going on—both in our heads and in the world around us.

Monday

Professional Development

Ewing Marion Kauffman School High school

6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131

Morning Session
8 AM Check-in Begins
8 AM–12 PM

Afternoon Session

1 PM Check-in Begins
1 PM–5 PM

Meet This Week’s Speaker: Edgar Palacios

Edgar Palacios is a powerhouse leader right here in KC who’s using his voice to fight for equity in education. He’s the founder of two amazing nonprofits, Latinx Education Collaborative (LEC) and Revolución Educativa (RevED), both focused on uplifting Latino educators, students, and families. His work is all about creating opportunities, shifting systems, and making sure young people have the support they need to thrive.

Edgar’s journey is anything but boring—he studied music, got his MBA, and now he’s out here building movements and leading major change. He’s a trained community organizer, a certified executive coach, and has completed some of the top leadership fellowships in the country.

He’s been recognized all over—including being named one of Ingram’s 40 Under Forty and a Downtown Council Urban Hero. Around Kansas City, he’s served on boards, led organizations, and been a voice for progress and possibility.

Most of all, Edgar believes in you. He’s passionate about building up the next generation of leaders—and he’s here to share his story, his wisdom, and why reclaiming joy and power matters.

He lives in KC with his wife Laura and their three awesome kids: JoJo, Ella, and Isabel.

Week 2 Breakout Sessions

Financial Literacy with CommunityAmerica Credit Union

Led by Prentiss Earl III, CommunityAmerica Credit Union

Money doesn’t have to be boring—and this session proves it. Prentiss Earl III is the Lead Innovation Specialist at CommunityAmerica Credit Union, where he designs games and interactive challenges that help students build real-life skills around credit, saving, and financial confidence. He’s already worked with over 3,000 young people across Kansas City—and now it’s your turn.

Before joining CommunityAmerica, Prentiss helped elevate Black and Latinx entrepreneurs as an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Kauffman Foundation. With 15+ years in product design and education, he’s all about turning big ideas into action—and making sure the next generation is ready to thrive.

You’ll walk away from this session with a stronger understanding of your money mindset—and a few surprises along the way.

Critical Thinking Skill Workshop

What if asking the right questions helped you make smarter moves—in school, at work, and in life?

This week’s session is all about thinking clearly, spotting gaps in information, and learning how to break down information so you can make the best decisions for the situation you are in. You’ll build tools to help you pause, ask better questions, and avoid mistakes that could cost you time, energy, or money down the road.

If you want to make confident choices and level up your problem-solving game, this sessions for you.

Week 2 Resources

  • Critical Thinking (crit·i·cal think·ing) Means taking time to think clearly and carefully before making a decision. It’s about asking questions, looking at all sides of a situation, and using facts—not just opinions—to solve problems or make choices.

    Check out the resources below for why critical thinking is an important real-world skill and how you can apply it this week through out your internship!

    Why is it important?

    • Solve problems – Find smart ways to handle challenges.

    • Make better choices – Think through options before deciding.

    • Prepares you for work and life – Employers value people who can think for themselves, ask good questions, and make smart choices.

  • Be Present, Be Engaged

    • Show up on time & ready to participate — your energy sets the tone.

    • Listen actively, ask questions, & contribute thoughtfully to discussions & activities.

    Lead with Respect — Always

    • Treat everyone with kindness & respect — staff, peers, guests.

    • Be open to new perspectives & give others space to speak & share.

    Use Tech with Intention

    • Phones away unless prompted for a PD activity — stay focused on the moment.

    • Use your devices only when directed, & for program-related tasks only.

    Own Your Experience

    • Take initiative: if you’re unsure, ask. If you see a need, fill it.

    • Your growth depends on your effort — what you put in is what you get out.

    Protect the Space

    • Help create a positive, focused environment where everyone can thrive.

    • Follow directions, manage distractions, & keep side conversations low or on hold.

    • Everyone has unique skills, interests, and strengths that bring value to the workforce.

    • The Agile Work Profiler takes just 15 minutes to complete at Agilities.org.

    • You'll learn your top Agilities and how they connect to real career opportunities.

Meet Your Coach

Your coach is your guide through the ProX experience. You will meet often with your coach and they will check-in with you and your employer weekly. Get to know your coach, and take a peek at the other coaches working with ProX interns.