MELBA, Idaho — Students in one class at Melba High School are all business. That's because they are actually running a business.
Heidi Stirm teaches the "Entrepreneur Experience" class at Melba High.
"They work together as a company," Stirm said of her students.
Her students will certainly profit from their education in the long run, but also right now.
"We figure out how much we want our shirts to sell for," Melba High senior Jaidan Wilson said.
The student-run business produces graphic t-shirts and sweatshirts, plus embroidered golf shirts, winter hats, small purses and other items.
"It's more hands on. I think that's what I like about it," Wilson said of the class.
They all have a hand in designing logos and graphics and heat pressing and embroidering the products.
"I'm the one who presses the shirts," Wilson said. "So I'm the one who makes sure the designs on the shirts are straight."
Most of the items have Melba High logos, but some have positive sayings.
"I think they've kind of been surprised at some of their design skills that they didn't know they had," Stirm said.
And they sell the stuff. It's a point of pride when they see someone wearing their work.
"Honestly, it makes me feel good because it's like 'I made that shirt,'" Wilson said.
"It's satisfying to me to see them create something and have it sell," said Stirm.
They put most of their profits back into the business to buy more shirts and other supplies. They also set aside some money to take a field trip to see how other businesses operate.
Stirm believes the "Entrepreneur Experience" could unlock a desire in her students to start a business in the future.
"That would be cool. They were talking about that," Stirm said. "A couple of them have that desire to own their business."
The students in the class also take care of the concessions stands for school events. They do the inventory, stocking, product selection and accounting.
Along the way, they're earning money for the school and a valuable "entrepreneur experience" for themselves.
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