Bolden Elementary Middle School Hosts Successful Fancy Farm Market

a{text-decoration:none;color:#464feb}

Bolden Elementary Middle School Hosts Successful Fancy Farm Market

On a bright and bustling day, Bolden Elementary Middle School transformed into a vibrant marketplace with the hosting of Bolden's Fancy Farm Market. The event saw a variety of vendors renting spaces for just $5 to showcase and sell their unique wares. The market featured an array of handmade jewelry, beautifully crafted crochet flowers, and adorable crochet stuffed animals, attracting a crowd of enthusiastic shoppers.

A special highlight of the market was the participation of the 5th grade students, who showcased their entrepreneurial spirit by making and selling beeswax candles under the guidance of Ms. Michelle Montanez, the STEM teacher, and Ms. Pam Glover, the art teacher. Their dedication and hard work paid off as their candles were a hit among the visitors.

Kaylee Sabel and Olivia Thompson, 5th grade students, shared their experience: “Having our own stand at the fancy farm was fun, exciting, and very stressful. We had to start making new animals just 20 minutes in. It was worth it at the end, we made $64 and split it up as $32 a piece. Our customers were very happy about the crochet animals. We are looking forward to do it again next month with new crochet stuff.”

Joseph Andrade, another 5th grade student, expressed his enthusiasm: “It was fun working the fancy farm because I got to sell people stuff, and I never did anything like that at my old school. I really liked it.”

Bolden's Fancy Farm Market is part of Charles F. Bolden Elementary Middle School’s school-to-community initiative, which aims to provide fresh, local produce and serve as a learning hub for military-connected students. Every first Wednesday, from 3:30-4:30, the market comes alive with tables set up outside by the garden, laden with seasonal produce, eggs, fresh herbs, seasonal crafts, art, and even tee shirts.

STEM classes are at the heart of the market's operations. They plant, grow, and harvest fruits and vegetables, and care for the chickens by feeding them, cleaning their coop, and collecting eggs. Meanwhile, the 8th AVID class handles the market's business side, keeping ledgers, researching other markets, and making suggestions to refine the business model.

All proceeds from the market are being used to support Bolden's Fancy Farm, which is an integral part of the school's educational program. The funds will go towards the care and maintenance of the egg-laying chickens and the cultivation of vegetables, ensuring that the farm continues to thrive and provides valuable learning experiences for the students.

Bolden's Farmer's Market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce. It is a community project that brings people together, teaches valuable skills, and supports local growth. It is a testament to what a community can achieve when they work together towards a common goal.

Aligning with DoDEA’s mission, Bolden’s Fancy Farm is dedicated to fostering each student's academic success and overall well-being. Collaborative teamwork is encouraged, focusing on developing critical and creative thinking skills through complex and rigorous real-world tasks. Additionally, the school-based program aims to foster independent, self-directed learning skills that promote intrinsic motivation among all students. The Fancy Farm ensures equitable opportunities for all students in a safe and secure learning environment, fostering many opportunities for student choice.

Through these efforts, Bolden Elementary Middle School strives to create an environment where every student can thrive academically and personally, ensuring a bright future for all.