Woodhull Intermediate School’s fourth grade Market Day, excited the entrepreneurial spirit in the youngsters, even if most are still unable to spell the word. Huntington Superintendent James W. Polansky even visited the market and did a little bit of shopping.
The initiative saw bursts of creativity among the boys and girls, who quickly learned about market forces, pricing, display and advertisement, managing finances and all the little things that comprise a capitalist system of economics.
“Basically, it is a day for students to create businesses and shops,” explained Elizabeth Flanagan, a fourth grade teacher at Woodhull. “Students come up with ideas like homemade bracelets, bookmarks, temporary tattoo shops, slime, games, etc. The students are responsible for every aspect of their shop. They make signs, set up tables, and display their products. The students shop at each other’s businesses and use our fake classroom money. They can work alone or in a partnership.”
To say students “absolutely love this day” is an understatement. “It is really amazing to watch them take ownership of their shop and see their creativity shine,” Mrs. Flanagan said. “It always amazes me to see just how much these students are capable of. We even had Mr. Polansky come by and do some shopping!”
