Each classroom is an independently operated business. Examples include a school supply business, a popcorn and candy business, and a recycling firm. One business sponsors school dances in which students learn about management skills, marketing, advertising, salesmanship, profits and losses, and making decisions about how the profits are used. Through this experience, students develop a greater awareness about the connection between education and work, while learning beyond the regular curriculum. In-school employment provides great learning opportunities by encouraging responsibility and the development of a quality work ethic.
Interested applicants fill out an application form and interview for the position.
The experience is made as realistic as possible, with the exception that every student applicant is placed. These partners serve as liaisons in each of the classrooms sharing their business expertise and assisting teachers as mentors, teachers, and business advisors. The partners volunteer in the school's tutoring program, participate in Career Week and other career speaker days, provide resources for field trips and in-services, and serve as the sites for field trips. The partnerships are maintained through regular monthly meetings, whereby both school and business problems and solutions are discussed. Students are responsible for operating these businesses with their teachers acting as the Chief Executive Officer.