It takes a village

Eagles aren’t in our schools forever — eventually, they fly the nest! And when they do, many give back to make an impact for the next generation. 

Smith Coffee & Café

More than 100 years since it was built, Eden Prairie’s Smith-Douglas-More House continues to contribute to our city and schools. The historic home now houses Smith Coffee & Café, owned by Ann Schuster and operated by her son, Alex Schuster (‘04). With deep ties to Eden Priaire Schools — Ann’s father was the lead architect who designed Eden Prairie High School (EPHS) — the Schusters were all-in when the district contacted them about supporting its centennial celebration in 2024.

Smith developed and sold a special coffee, the Centennial Blend, and donated one dollar back to Eden Prairie Schools for each bag sold. It also featured a special drink, the “Eagle Spirit Latte,” on its menu and gave district staff a 10% discount on purchases during the week after spring break.

“This partnership demonstrated for us how much the staff care about being part of the Eden Prairie community,” Alex said. “It’s so important for schools to be part of the community — and for the community to be part of our schools.”

“It’s so important for schools to be part of the community ­— and for the community to be part of our schools.” – Alex Schuster 

Alex and the Smith team put that vision into action when an EPHS Science, Research and Design class visited the café to gain real-life experience in the science of coffee and taste various blends.

“It was fun to see our next generation of leaders,” Alex reflected. “This project was a nice way to unite our schools and community.”

 KUUBs Modern Mediterranean

Not too far across town, Mouhamed Koubaytari (‘07) runs Kuubs Modern Mediterranean Restaurant, which has quickly become a community favorite. Koubaytari generously donated delicious cilantro chicken bowls served at the 100 Years of Inspiring Each Citywide Prom. 

“Donating food to our citywide prom was a great way to give back while also getting our name and food in front of people,” he said.

The restaurant’s name, “Kuubs,” comes from the nickname Koubaytari earned in the halls of EPHS that sticks with him today. An Eden Prairie native, Koubaytari wanted to create a restaurant that shared the coastal Mediterranean foods he grew up with as a child of Syrian parents — including gyros, kabobs and falafel.

“Growing up, people were fascinated by the foods we ate at home,” he explained. “And my master’s degree in community health helped me understand how important healthy foods are to our overall health. All our food is cooked fresh for each customer.”

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Eden Prairie’s exceptional education is possible thanks to the collaboration of community partners like the Schusters and Koubaytari, whose Eagle Pride lasted long beyond their days in our schools. 

When our schools and local organizations work together — inside classrooms, at job shadows, or during site visits — we both benefit from the resources, expertise and support we provide each other. 

Offer your expertise and empower the next generation of leaders when you pursue a partnership with Eden Prairie Schools!

• VOLUNTEER: Share your skills by speaking, mentoring, and more — students benefit from your experience.
• DONATE: Enhance student learning opportunities through financial support and corporate resources.
• PARTNER: Benefit from mutually beneficial relationships. Want to raise your visibility in the community? Looking for interns? Get in touch!