Students at Berea-Midpark High School are learning what it's like to run a business by actually running a business!
Doug Kawiecki, a 1980 graduate of Berea High School and owner of ACM Signs & Graphics, made a donation and helped create an innovative new entrepreneurial program at Berea-Midpark High School.
Kawiecki donated his entire company to Berea City School District for this one-of-a-kind program, where students learn how to make professional signs and develop the skills of running a small business.
In his donation, he gave the school $75,000 worth of equipment, including a computerized router.
Instead of selling his company or passing it onto his children, Kawiecki said his wife inspired him to make the unique donation.
“Also, the vision of our superintendent was outside-the-box thinking, which can really help the students excel.”
Kawiecki said Superintendent Michael Sheppard saw a trend in entrepreneurial programs and reached out to him about his company, which was created, back in 1994. Kawiecki's wife also worked in the Berea City School District as an educator.
“It's just something new that I haven't really done before,” said Senior Adriana Riley on why she decided to join the program. “Learning how to carve into wood, making posters and stuff like that. I think that's pretty cool.”
Operated by the school and its students, "ACM Signs & Graphics" has been renamed to "Lightning Strikes Imaging." The company sells real signs and already has a new website.
"You have to be creative for business,” said Senior Makayla Krage. “And you have to have ideas.”
Just four weeks into class, the students are learning about the value of creating a loyal customer base.
“This class is very different, a lot of hands-on work,” said Junior Nicholas Ruggiero. “No books involved.”
Teacher Jim Bycznski said he’s teaching the students to create a product that has craftsmanship. Then, he will go over the numbers with them.
“We will get into how to create the spreadsheet,” he said. “How to keep track of the project, supplies, materials.”
The students have already made more than $3,000 and it’s all for a good cause. The revenue will go to the Berea City School District's general fund.
