TRENTON SCHOOLS A special craft show at Trenton High School

ANDREA THORN

What started out as an economics unit for a group of Trenton High School students ended as something that will likely become a welcomed annual tradition.

The students of the PAES classroom at Trenton High School, under the leadership of teacher Christina Grooms, embarked on an adventure that far exceeded their expectations.

The students set out to learn about some of the skills necessary to be a successful entrepreneur by designing, problem solving and creating a variety of products to offer to the staff at THS.

Their creations included products such as pencil holders, calming bottles, noise makers, fairy lights, pet beds, dream catchers, picture and chip holders and more. By the end of the two-day craft fair, all that was left were empty tables and full hearts from those involved.

Reflecting on the project, it was evident that so much more was learned than just what it might take to start your own business. Increased self-esteem, motivation and a desire to work are just a few things that the students took away from the craft fair.

It was also empowering and motivating for the students to see a product go from concept to completion. But once the products were done, seeing that people were excited to take their products home either for themselves or as a gift for others, took the project to the next level.

At one point, a student said to Mrs. Grooms, “I feel like you are my boss and I am your employee and we are running a business!”

That was the hope for the project, but hearing the student recognize that just solidifies the impact that it had on the students in the classroom. It was the perfect opportunity to bring work and life skills together within the school setting.

The students in the PAES class at Trenton High School are already a group of familiar faces who support a variety of projects all over the building. While the craft show was initially viewed as a way to give back to the staff, it was just as much a gift to the students.

We cannot thank THS enough for their support of this project and the program.