STEM partnership:From Seed to Success: How 123 Salad is Growing Future Innovators

It's not every day you see a thriving business sprout from a school garden, especially one cultivated by 6th graders! We are incredibly proud of North Middle School and we are proud to shine a spotlight on 123 Salad, a groundbreaking student-run enterprise that embodies the very best of interdisciplinary STEM education and digital literacy.

The journey of 123 Salad began with a simple, yet powerful, idea: harnessing the power of a Tower Garden to grow fresh produce right here in our classrooms. But this wasn't just about planting seeds; it was about cultivating an entire business from the ground up, integrating every facet of modern entrepreneurship.

This innovative project is a testament to the power of a true interdisciplinary STEM partnership. Our 6th-grade students weren't just learning about science in isolation; they were actively applying it to real-world challenges. From understanding the hydroponic principles of the Tower Garden and optimizing plant growth (Science & Engineering) to designing efficient production schedules and calculating yields (Math), every step was a hands-on learning experience.

What truly sets 123 Salad apart is its seamless integration of Digital Literacy. Our young entrepreneurs didn't just grow lettuce; they built a brand. They leveraged digital tools to:

• Research and analyze market trends: What kind of salads are popular? What are the pricing strategies of local businesses?

• Design their branding and marketing materials: From logo creation to developing engaging social media content, students explored graphic design and digital marketing principles.

• Manage inventory and sales: Using spreadsheets and potentially even simple e-commerce platforms, they learned about tracking their produce and managing transactions.

• Communicate effectively: Students practiced their communication skills by presenting their business plan, interacting with customers, and collaborating on marketing campaigns.

The result? A delicious and successful student-run business that's not only providing fresh, healthy salad options to our school community but also fostering critical 21st-century skills.

The students of 123 Salad are learning invaluable lessons in:

• Entrepreneurship: From ideation to execution, they're experiencing the full cycle of building and running a business.

• Problem-solving: They're encountering real-world challenges and developing creative solutions.

• Collaboration: Working together, they're discovering the power of teamwork and shared goals.

• Financial Literacy: Understanding costs, pricing, and profit margins.

• Sustainability: Learning about sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste.

  
  

123 Salad is more than just a business; it's a living, breathing example of how hands-on, interdisciplinary learning can empower students to become the innovators, problem-solvers, and digital citizens of tomorrow. We can't wait to see what these incredible young minds grow next!

Stay tuned for updates on 123 Salad's delicious offerings and exciting new developments!