Class of 2028 Explores Entrepreneurship

The fourth grade class is pleased with the outcome of their first foray into the business world after the launch of their new business, the Hammer Hut, this week. The small-scale retail store located in the Catherine Gavin Memorial Library (A.K.A. “the Cabin”) opened its doors on Tuesday morning before classes started. The enthusiastic crowd of students was eager to see what was in stock in the store specializing in essential school supplies. In addition, the Hammer Hut also had a selection of delicious, fresh baked goods available for purchase during opening day thanks to a partnership with Detwilers Market.

The exciting venture into the business world was initiated with start-up funds donated by the Parent Association and was entirely student-led. Lower School Media Specialist Dr. Kelly Rose, Mrs. Amy Barker from ODA’s Business Office, Director of Development Mrs. Melanie Simmons, and Lower School Art Teacher Ms. Amanda Gabrici shared their expertise, acting as mentors for the students. Students divided into three teams, focusing on marketing, accounting/inventory, and customer service. Each group worked well together, developing both hard skills (measurable i.e., accounting and writing) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, time management) throughout the process, utilizing these skills as they collaborated as a team, created and interpreted statistical analysis, and developed customer service skills.

Items in the store will be priced between $1-3, with proceeds divided between a local charity and reinvested to purchase more inventory. Regular Hammer Hut hours will be each Tuesday and Thursday, 7:45-8:10 am.