Students at STEM Elementary got to experience entrepreneurship, innovation, and money management in a unique way.
The school recently hosted its 3rd annual "2nd Grade Market Day," a special project in which students are tasked with creating a product at school that other students (K-5th Grade) would want to purchase.
"The Market project has been a game-changer for my students," said 2nd Grade Teacher Mackenzie Maxson. "It encourages them to think critically about the world around them and to develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and financial literacy."
Over a 10-day period, students worked in small teams to create their company name, logo, and promotional video, and they priced their merchandise. During the event, students from other grades were given 10 "dollars" to purchase items, giving them real practice with managing money on a budget. Each 2nd grade business then got to experience the reality of selling goods in a busy marketplace, with some students selling out quickly and others experiencing massive surplus.
"They learn that success doesn’t come from just a good idea, but from planning, perseverance, and the willingness to improve along the way," Maxson added. "This project is a testament to the power of hands-on, student-driven learning, and is what STEM is all about. It’s something that has made a lasting impact on both me and my students, past and present."