Students at William W. Estes worked hard selling their own products in an effort to raise money for local charities.
The fourth graders had to come up with business plans for the Entrepreneur Fair. This fun experience required students to research market demand for Estes Elementary based on what other students in the school wanted or needed.
“The fourth graders had to apply critical thinking and problem solving skills as they chose a product or service for the student body,” said AIG Specialist Donalyn Small. “Each business had to set prices to attract customers while keeping production costs low. The different groups came up with a business plan, name, and signage to attract customers to shop with them.”
Ms. Small said that teaching students the importance of entrepreneurship is a valuable life skill.
“Many of our kids will have the opportunity to start their own business one day,” she said. “I want my students to know they are capable of doing anything they set their minds to.”
Not only was this a learning experience for the business owners, but also the customers that visited each store. “The younger students that brought money for purchases had decisions to make as well,” Ms. Small explained. “They had 18 companies to choose from as they decided where best to spend their money. Customers gained experience with money exchange and communication skills.”
After paying back loans and initial start-up costs, student entrepreneurs raised $2,700. The fourth graders decided to split that money up between the Asheville Humane Society and Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue.
