From Saint Matthew School
New leadership for any organization is a time of change and of new possibilities. The Rescue Aid, a student run business that is the cornerstone of Saint Matthew School’s Entreprenurial Program, recently elected a new CEO and CFO. “The previous officers graduated last year so we had the chance to take over those jobs,” explained Rian McManigal, the new Chief Executive Officer. “I am excited about this position because I get to make sure everyone is doing their job, talk with the principal, and communicate with our customers.”
“The focus of the program at Saint Matthew School is to guide students to learn about entrepreneurship and translating that information into the creation and implementation of a student run business,” shared faculty advisor Steve Stoner. “At the core of this experience is the opportunity for these young people to help others as we are called to do as Christians.”
The National Association of Colleges and Employers conducted a study that found that 91 percent of employers look for problem-solving skills when making hiring decisions. “Since creative problem-solving is one of the top sought-after skills in any business environment, cultivating this skill as early as possible is wise,” Stoner added.
“The goal of this program is that each learner will develop those skills required to be an entrepreneur which include hard work, effective communication, teamwork, and resilience after disappointment,” expanded Principal Pauline Wiley. “Creating a business requires entrepreneurs to think critically about problems they see and how to find a solution.”
As a student works through the entrepreneurial process, he/she will need to use skills in reading, mathematics, and social studies in order to successfully create and run a business. The program begins with the study of capitalism, finance, and marketing. Equally important, the Saint Matthew School Entrepreneurship Program emphasizes service to those in need which is consistent with its mission as a Christian school. “This year the scope of the business will continue to be the creation and marketing of a product whose sales benefit an existing charity,” Stoner emphasized. “The students do not personally profit from sales or donations. All funds and collected materials are used to support different groups that provide a service to the community.”
The new Chief Financial Officer, Kennedy Shaffer, is looking forward to using her math skills. “I am a little worried about keeping track of inventory, paying bills, and figuring out our profit. But it was so much fun last year that I am excited to set up our store and help our customers. I know I can do it.”
“When you realize that these are elementary age students who not only develop such essential skills, but use them to help those in need, it is just inspiring,” Wiley concluded. “We are all so excited to see what they accomplish in the name of Jesus.”
The officers will provide an update on their first service project once the membership develops that project plan.
For additional information on The Rescue Aid contact Saint Matthew School and check their Facebook page at stmatthewschooltyrone.
[Photo: Rian McManigal, CEO, and Kenndy Shaffer, CFO, begin their tenure as the new officers of the Saint Matthew School student run entrepreneurial business The Rescue Aid.]
