Wheelin' & Dealin' at Valley Academy's Annual Market Day

Cupcake competition was fierce at Valley Academy of Learning's annual Market Day. The gym was packed with booths full of tasty treats, handmade goods, arts and crafts, and eager young salespeople. This student-directed event challenges students to do their market research, come up with products to sell and develop their marketing materials, signage, and "sales pitch." Products ranged from homemade jewelry to handcrafted slime.

Valley ALE Teacher Julie Banken came up with the idea for the Market Day about nine years ago. Touched off by the markers movement and local farmer's markets, Julie says she shared the design with the staff at Valley, and it just took off from there. "If you hang around long enough, you'll see students start slashing their prices to move product," explained Banken. The healthy competition among the young retailers created a fun environment for students and their families.