Young Bostonian Entrepreneurs

This Spring has been very busy with big school projects.  One of these was for a class that Lydia and Andy are taking called "Young Bostonian Entrepreneurs."  They had to research, propose, and develop an original business plan.  There were MANY assignments related to this project, including proposals, brochures, sample products, costs analysis/projection, and all of this had to be done in groups.

Then, the school hosted a fair in order for people to come check out the new businesses, and buy their products.

Lydia chose to bake bread.  Her group was incredibly difficult to work with, and included THAT GIRL, who made our life miserable for awhile.  But, Lydia persevered, figured out a lot about business, and even more about group dynamics and relationships.  They did NOT make the most money in the fair, but I was informed that they had the most compliments.  Specifically, Lydia's Lemon Poppyseed bread and her Whole Wheat Pilgrim Rolls (which she learned how to make with Elizabeth).

Andy was in a group that wanted to make something.  It was less labor intensive, because they contracted out some of their work.  The fluffy purses made from dyed bunny fur were a hit with the second graders, and they sold immediately.  Andy chose to paint boxes instead of sew bunny purses.

He had great fun using the "cash register."

While in the midst of this project, I wondered if all of this work was worth it.  Hours and hours of homework was assigned.  But, when I attended the fair and saw the happiness and enthusiasm in all of the students, I was grateful.  I know that my own children learned a lot about starting a new business, and they will remember this experience if they are ever doing it in "the real world."  All together, the school earned more than $4000 in this event.  Of course, the students had to pay for any employment (including parent help), materials, and all other expenses.  But still, I was impressed.