In a project designed to blend real-world skills with classroom learning, Belle Alexander’s cross-categorical class recently ran a successful café that served coffee and cocoa to teachers and staff.
The project provided students with the opportunity to practice essential life skills in a fun and engaging environment, while simultaneously creating a space for connection within the school community.
For several weeks, students worked to prepare for this unique experience. Collaboration was key to organizing and preparing for this event. With help from their classroom teachers and paraprofessionals to their speech pathologist, school social worker, and school counselor, students were able to learn and prepare for this activity across many different subjects and avenues.
One of the key areas of focus was communication. Students practiced both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. They learned how to greet someone, take an order, and engage in conversation appropriately. In addition to communication and social skills, students were also able to practice their fine-motor skills using special utensils to place ice, marshmallows, and other delicious tidbits into the cups of their patrons. Several students also helped design the cafe logo with their school social worker using graphic design software.
Another vital aspect of the project was the integration of math skills. Students applied what they had been learning in their math class by counting and identifying monetary bills. For future events, students will work on creating menu surveys and tabulating the results for the event.
Teachers and staff were delighted to see the students’ enthusiasm and skills in action, and the café will become a regular event on the school calendar each quarter with seasonal-themed drinks and treats. School officials thanked all of those who contributed to the project, especially Country Morning Coffee for assisting with supplies.
