Board hears Business & Education Partnership update on Spartan Fuel Cafe, DECA and apprenticeships
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Summary
At the McFarland School District Board meeting, the Business & Education Partnership reported on the student-run Spartan Fuel Cafe, Reality Zone events, DECA competition results and a new digital marketing project that will connect students with local businesses.
The board received an update from Miss Chapman (speaker 7) on the district’s Business & Education Partnership and related student programs.
Chapman described the Spartan Fuel Cafe, a student-run cafe staffed through a collaboration between marketing students and special education, saying the operation gives students customer-service and real-world work experience. Chapman also noted plans to display student artwork in the cafe and flagged continuing Reality Zone events, advising-night turnout and interest in setting up a youth apprenticeship booth next year to boost work-based learning.
Chapman summarized CTE highlights: a snowblower tune-up fundraiser that exceeded expectations, SkillsUSA placements, DECA district and state participation (with several students advancing toward ICDC), and a student employment recognition program in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. She introduced a digital marketing final-project in which students will work with local businesses to assess needs and develop strategies.
The presentation emphasized community partnerships and volunteer opportunities: the district will seek community volunteers for Real World Day and the First Job Panel on April 24 and highlighted events such as the Easter egg hunt and Bands on the Boardwalk as student-fundraising opportunities.
Board members praised the student-driven nature of the activities and recognized Cassidy Hoag (teacher) for recent statewide recognition in marketing education.
The update was informational; next steps include continued partnership outreach and volunteer recruitment for spring events.