Most R-PHS students have likely noticed the popcorn stand present in the cafeteria, where approximately 200 bags are sold every day. What is also likely is that most R-PHS students are not aware of the purpose and all of the work behind the popcorn business.
Rocket Enterprises is a student-run business that provides students with opportunities for inclusion and valuable work-based learning experiences. One student, Logan Secrest, says, “I have fun and learn a lot of new things.” The daily rotation of three to four students operating the business employs each and every responsibility, which includes money collection, making popcorn, taking inventory, and measuring; all experiences applicable to the real world. Transition Coordinator Mrs. Burkett said, “Rocket Enterprises provides invaluable opportunities for students to interact with their peers and get crucial work experience.”
Photo credit: Erin Burkett
Outside of lunch time, the team of students, job coaches, and educators account together as a group. Together as a group, they discuss and decide what to spend profit money on. The popcorn business’ profits go entirely back into the school for student needs, school needs, and experiences the students have earned, such as pizza/ice cream parties and field trips. The core of Rocket Enterprises and its mission is to aid and benefit the student body.
Photo credit: Erin Burkett
What operating the popcorn business means to students is motivation to work towards goals, earn incentives, and take pride in having a role to fulfill. One of four job coaches, Mrs. Rhonda says, “It’s really cool watching the kids learn new tasks and skills.” Rocket Enterprises’ popcorn business is not only to provide students with great, flavorful popcorn; but to provide inclusion and connection between students and their peers, critical real-world experiences, and a feeling of purpose and belonging.
Written By: Lauren Burkett and Aili Casano