At TIS, something special is brewing every week, and it’s not just the coffee! Mrs. Shanks and her incredible students have created a beloved tradition with their Coffee Cart, an initiative that not only serves up delicious treats but also provides valuable life skills to students in her class.
Each week, Mrs. Shanks’ students prepare homemade snacks, learning essential skills such as measuring ingredients, following recipes, and baking. Once their creations are ready, they take on the roles of servers and cashiers, practicing customer service and handling money. Peer helpers from across the school also step in to support their classmates, fostering connections, teamwork, and friendships that extend far beyond the coffee cart.
The success of this initiative is evident in the excitement it brings to both students and staff. Teachers and faculty eagerly look forward to placing their orders, knowing they will receive not only a delicious cup of coffee or a tasty snack but also the warm smiles and enthusiasm of the students delivering it.
This project has become a highlight of the school week, providing hands-on experience in communication, responsibility, and financial literacy. The students gain confidence and independence, and the entire school community benefits from the positive interactions and sense of camaraderie it fosters.
A huge thank you to Mrs. Shanks for her dedication and hard work in making this initiative such a resounding success. Her commitment to empowering her students and giving them real-world experiences is truly inspiring. Thank you as well to the amazing students who work tirelessly to make the Coffee Cart a success and to the peer helpers who support them in this endeavor.