Sussex Academy third graders hold annual Market Day

Magic wands, slime, art and bookmarks were just some of the goods and services available at Sussex Academy’s Market Day Dec. 13.

Market Day is an annual project for Sussex Academy third graders, who are tasked with brainstorming a business, creating its name and crafting a business plan for approval.  

Third grade math and science teacher Jenna Dean said Market Day is an outstanding opportunity for students to experience firsthand what it’s like to plan, create and operate a business. 

Students are graded on their plans, materials, advertising posters with the name of their business, and their behavior during the market sales. 

During Market Day, students in all grades visit to purchase goods and services.

After the market day, students analyze their sales, noting differences between their actual and goal sales. Through the event, students are able to apply key economic concepts such as supply and demand, budgeting and entrepreneurship in a fun and engaging way, Dean said.

“It’s a school-wide event that students at the elementary campus look forward to each year, and it was wonderful to see our third graders so excited to showcase their businesses to their peers, teachers and families,” Dean said. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our families, who help make this valuable learning experience a success and truly memorable for everyone involved.”

Dean of Elementary Connie Hendricks said Market Day is a fantastic opportunity for third graders to apply their learning in a real-world context.  

“Students experience the ins and outs of running a business, from developing a business plan to interacting with customers,” Hendricks said. “It’s a valuable experience that fosters creativity, problem-solving and a sense of entrepreneurship. Now in its third year, Market Day gets better and better each year as younger students can learn from the previous year’s Market Day.”