6th Graders Learn Micro-Finance

Micro-finance? What sixth grader is thinking about micro-finance? In Ms. Chapman's sixth grade classroom, students experienced the challenges of starting a small enterprise to support the Tri-unity Christian project of packaging food for kids in the Dominican Republic. Assignment: Design a project that will require a minor investment to generate revenue which will be used to purchase food packaging supplies. Rationale: Expand students' understanding of the work it takes people in third world countries to start businesses which allow them to support their families. Outcome: Greater Understanding and 636.27 for the Kids Feeding Kids program. I asked the students what were some of the challenges they faced. Their responses were both insightful and age-appropriate. Most of them had family members support their efforts. A luxury many do not have. Did we create the next generation of entrepreneurs? A few ... but more importantly, Ms. Chapman invested time and discussion in helping broaden their global perspective. She allowed them to 'feel' the work of collaboration and helped them over-come their challenges. The biggest take away? They all said, they would do it again and working to help others was worth it. So in the end, Ms. Chapman had allowed them to grow their faith and become people of influence with purpose!

Dedicated to maximizing each student's unique qualities and abilities through a spirit-led education. Deb Blanker