Contact TCS: info@twincitiesschool.com • 651-424-3126
5126 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55421
Twin Cities School is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit social services organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our students work in automotive detailing, or learn about aviation careers with direct instruction and mentoring from field experts. Students engage in projects that expand their imagination and skills. Students’ interest in post-secondary education (college or additional vocational training) will increase as they see their career dreams develop. They become effective, creative and competitive in finding their place in the workforce.
Jerry L Griffis
Executive Director
Automotive Detailing Program Director
In 1998, Jerry lost his 16 year-old son, this put Jerry on a journey to help young boys and girls get off the streets and into a positive learning atmosphere. Jerry wrote his business plan for a school that offered hands-on training in the areas that he knows the best and in subjects that will hold the attention of students.
For 10 years, Jerry and his wife Valencia ran one of the few minority-owned automotive reconditioning companies here in the Twin Cities. It was Jerry’s love of cars and Val’s management skills that led them to be in high demand for bringing cars “back to life.”
In 1992, Jerry was recruited to manage the reconditioning center at one of the largest GM dealerships in the Twin Cities. In 2000, Jerry was promoted to be the first black service manager in the Midwest. In 2011, Jerry and his team won #1 in customer service in the Midwest.
Jerry continues working hard to do positive things in his life and the lives of others.
Val Griffis
Office Director
Jerry and Val combined their names and started Jerrvals Records in 2000. The record company featured some wonderful people within the gospel music industry. Val is your point of contact with TCS and will be happy to help get you set up for success.
Michael Allan Johnson
Aviation Program Director
Mr. Johnson holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Minnesota State University-Mankato, and a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Serving the community as a private pilot and certified ground instructor, Mr. Johnson is also owner of New Star Aviation, an aerospace diversity outreach and inclusion program promoting STEM education and addressing racial equity in Saint Paul.
