Student get real life experience in classroom

DEERTON — Students at a local school had the opportunity to learn a little bit about the real world through a class activity, which involved creating a business, making products, and selling these items to fellow students.

Seventh and Eighth Graders taking an entrepreneurship elective at Autrain-Onota Public Schools were asked to apply what they have been learning in class to actual situations. After learning about pay stubs and opening bank accounts, these students then came up with a business plan. Second and third graders came into the classroom today to check out their products and purchase items from the shops.

Some of these products being sold include cookies, jewelry, and even origami. Having this kind of hands on experience is something that is not always taught to students in the middle or elementary school grade levels.

“I feel like a lot of schools don’t offer it anymore, especially not at this level, perhaps you would take a business class in high school but this is bringing more of what students learn in the elementary and middle school level to the real world and showing them why what they are learning is important,” said Middle School Teacher, Becca Spitzer.

“We’re going to be selling products that we made to other classrooms,” said Seventh Grade Student, Eva LaVallie.

A Wells Fargo Agent also made an appearance to speak with the students about the importance of responsibility, especially when working with a financial budget.