Englewood business students had the grand opening of the new Englewood school store. As the lunch bell rang Monday, everyone gathered at the bottom of the cafeteria to watch Jada Tanner, senior class president, cut the ribbon. Students and teachers were seen walking in and out throughout the period looking at what the store had to offer. The Business II students were also running a cup decorating competition, for a chance to win unlimited coffee for a semester.

        Dr. Erika James, the Business II teacher said the store was created to allow students to have real-world business experience, “It’s actually a business plan for our business students, and then our marketing class designed some of the products that we’re going to put in here.” The classes spent the 2021-2022 school year designing a specific business plan and finding a location that would be easily accessible to students. These real-world experiences allow students to practice the skills they learn and truly understand what is being taught in the classroom. 

Senior Isaiah Bachicha says he’s excited to see the store, yet believes, “I just think it would be better if it was open during class because I have two off periods.” Currently, the store is open during lunch, yet they are thinking of expanding hours to before and after school. The store gives students a great opportunity to grab a bite to eat or something to drink if not they are not looking to eat in the cafeteria that day. The business students have many plans to keep the store expanding and flourishing throughout the year and are hoping it becomes a great resource for Englewood students.