UPDATE: Governor Mifflin fourth graders launched their own mock businesses today in a vibrant ribbon-cutting ceremony at Brecknock Elementary School. This annual business symposium, held on November 21, 2023, showcased the entrepreneurial skills of students in the school’s innovative “Sweet Read City,” a mini city designed to teach essential concepts of economy and community.
The event drew a small crowd eager to witness the unveiling of new simulated businesses including GMIS Care Cart and Mustang Keystone. “Sweet Read City serves not only as an educational platform but also as a real-world application of entrepreneurship,” said Rachel Sebastian, the school librarian and organizer of the symposium. “It’s about understanding how businesses work and the interdependence within our community.”
Throughout the project, students were tasked with connecting with local businesses to learn about their operations. This hands-on experience is part of a broader educational framework called Total Experience Learning, used by institutions like Alvernia University. “By learning directly from local business owners, students gain insights into what it means to be an entrepreneur,” Sebastian explained.
Participating businesses this year included prominent names such as Classic Harley Davidson, East Penn Manufacturing, Schlouch Inc., LedgeRock Golf Club, and Goodwill Industries. These partnerships provided invaluable context and mentorship as students crafted their business models.
The culmination of their hard work was marked by a lively ceremony where students delivered keynote speeches, demonstrating their understanding of real-world economic concepts. “Experiences like the business symposium not only provide immersive, real-world learning but also nurture innovative, community-minded solutions,” Sebastian noted.
With the launch of each mock business, students not only practiced entrepreneurial skills but also fostered a sense of community engagement. This year’s symposium highlighted the importance of local business in shaping young minds, preparing them for future economic participation.
As the ribbon was cut, the excitement in the air was palpable, showcasing the creativity and hard work of these young entrepreneurs. These initiatives are critical in developing the next generation of business leaders and fostering a community-oriented mindset.
The Governor Mifflin School District continues to emphasize the importance of experiential learning, ensuring that students are well-equipped with the skills they need to thrive. As these fourth graders step into their roles as business owners today, they are not just learning about economics—they are experiencing it firsthand.
Stay tuned for more updates on how these young entrepreneurs will impact their community and the lessons they will carry into the future.
