Microeconomy & Service Opportunities
Montessori suggested having a shop in a nearby town for the students to sell products from their Microeconomy. The value of this shop is in “the genuine study of commerce and exchange, of the art of ascertaining the demand and being ready to meet it, of the strict rigid rules of bookkeeping” (Montessori, From Childhood to Adolescence, 70). By producing and selling products, the adolescent is learning through real-world experiences of running a business and all the responsibilities that entails. They are learning about the importance of their role within the community and society and will eventually gain social and economic independence. The 2015-16 school year was the starting point of the adolescent communities’ Microeconomy. They made soap and bath and beauty products including bath salts, foot scrub, lotions, and foot soaks. This continued the following years with a few additions such as candles, lip balms, and ornamental wreaths.
Each year, the Microeconomy hosts a “Holiday Sale” for the students and families to purchase handmade crafts and homemade food for themselves or others. 20% of the proceeds is donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The students have also donated Microeconomy funds for gifts to bring to Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital over the holiday season. The middle school also coordinates with the elementary classes to deliver meals to local donation centers.
Each year, the Microeconomy hosts a “Holiday Sale” for the students and families to purchase handmade crafts and homemade food for themselves or others. 20% of the proceeds is donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The students have also donated Microeconomy funds for gifts to bring to Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital over the holiday season. The middle school also coordinates with the elementary classes to deliver meals to local donation centers.