Blackstone Academy Charter School Hosts Business Fair

PAWTUCKET, RI — Ninth-graders at Blackstone Academy Charter School participated in a business fair where they presented small businesses they had been developing throughout the semester.

Students explored everything from supply and demand to budgeting, then turned those lessons into real business ideas, according to a media release.

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"The fair is set up like a science fair, with students pitching and showcasing their work to peers, educators, and local community members — including small business owners," the release said.

Friday's event was the third Annual Business Competition. The students prepared and presented their business plans, including budget, location, core values, website, commercial and other materials, to judges from the community.

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"Student businesses varied, spanning industries including but not limited to auto detailing, spas, coffee shops, clothing retailers, law firms, architecture firms, and bakeries," the release said.

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In the release, Violet (V) Ha, a ninth-grade English teacher and event organizer, of the event, said, "This charter public school is a special one, and I am so thankful for this job and these kids."

"Students come to us from 28 different middle schools, and I have the immense privilege of helping our students thrive at Blackstone," Ha said. "Students were equal parts nervous and excited to share their extraordinary work with esteemed members of our community."

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