Cantwell’s Bridge Middle School Store stands as a beacon of innovation and success in school fundraising. By combining in-school retail with digital payments, they have enabled an in-school concession stand that generated over $76,000 of revenue during the 2022-23 school year.
The store has not only met the financial needs of the school but has also become an invaluable educational tool, assisting the school district in revamping their business pathway. This case study exemplifies the potential for schools to create sustainable and impactful retail models that benefit both the educational experience and the broader community.
INTRODUCTION
In partnership with Venderly, Cantwell’s Bridge Middle School has pioneered an innovative school store model that seamlessly integrates digital payments with their in-school concession stand. This case study explores the transformative journey of Cantwell’s Bridge MS Store, which has not only generated substantial revenue but also made a significant impact on the community during challenging times.
THE CONCEPT
Facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cantwell’s Bridge MS embraced a forward-thinking approach to community engagement by initiating digital donations. The school community rallied together during this fundraising drive, generating over $3,000 to support organizations combating child homelessness. This initial success laid the foundation for a more extensive and sustainable fundraising model.
INNOVATIVE OFFERINGS
Digital Donations: Cantwell’s Bridge MS embraced digital fundraising during the pandemic, showcasing the school’s commitment to community service. Over $3,000 was raised to aid organizations dedicated to addressing child homelessness, reflecting the school’s dedication to social responsibility.
In-School Concession Stand: Upon the return of students to in-person learning, Cantwell’s Bridge MS introduced an in-school concession stand. This strategic move not only satisfied student cravings but also evolved into a thriving space for students to learn, share & grow while also generating over $60,000 in sales during its inaugural year. Not slowing down, students out-performed the previous year’s students by driving in over $76,000 in revenue in 2022-2023.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Cantwell’s Bridge MS Store’s financial success is a testament to its innovative approach. With total revenues exceeding $136,000 in the two years since they’ve begun digital payments, the store has become a self-sustaining entity that significantly contributes to the school’s budget resiliency.
Students at Cantwell's Bridge MS play a central role in the day-to-day operations of the store. Engaging in over 50,000 transactions in just two years since its inception, students gain practical experience in retail management, customer service, and financial responsibility using hardware/software found in millions of small businesses throughout the United States.
Teachers at Cantwell's Bridge MS have seamlessly integrated the school store into their instructional methods. From incorporating real-world business scenarios into lessons to utilizing the store as a case study, the educational benefits extend beyond the financial realm, enriching the overall learning experience.
School administrators are thrilled with the multifaceted success of Cantwell's Bridge MS Store. The store not only boosts the school's financial standing but also serves as a testament to the school's commitment to community engagement, social responsibility, and empowering students with practical skills.
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