Students propose 'Highlander Hub' spirit store; mini-golf fundraiser planned to seed project

Student council leaders presented a plan for the Highlander Hub, a student-run spirit store at Baldwin-Whitehall High School intended to promote school spirit, provide retail work experience and spotlight local small businesses.

Student council president (Speaker 10) said the Hub has been in development since February and will be supported by student clubs, athletics and the Innovation Shop. Executive board member Emma Manerich said a survey of students and staff showed 93% interest in a school store and described planned inventory: Baldwin apparel, team-specific items, game-day accessories, school supplies and hygiene products. "The biggest one being just bringing the student body together and creating a sense of Highlander pride," Manerich said.

Joel Stevens, another executive board member, emphasized safety and convenience: offering on-campus options so students do not leave school between practices and risking unsafe behavior. The project team said some inventory will be sourced from small businesses in the Baldwin-Whitehall community and that high-school elective courses (intro to business, marketing, fashion design) and clubs will be involved.

To raise seed funds, the group invited board members to a mini-golf fundraiser on Sept. 11 at Cool Springs from 5–8 p.m., with 20% of proceeds to support the Highlander Hub. Board members and administrators discussed sustainability and suggested linking the store to a formal entrepreneurship course to ensure continuity beyond the current student leadership.

The students asked the board for ongoing guidance; the project will return to staff and the board if curricular or facility changes are required.