Making Cents of It All: Inside Grade 1 Stores

Families quickly see that the experience goes far beyond the products on display. First graders confidently explain their offerings, answer questions, assist customers, and ring up purchases, bringing months of learning to life.

That learning begins with an exploration of neighborhoods. Students study both the Hilltop neighborhood and their own communities, identifying the features that help people feel safe, connected, and supported. They document their observations and consider how neighborhoods function.

As they learn about different types of maps, first graders explore how communities are organized. Each child creates a map of their own neighborhood, complete with symbols, a key, and a compass rose. During Tinker Time, those ideas take physical form as classes collaborate to build model neighborhoods with homes, businesses, and public spaces.

With a growing understanding of community needs, students turn their focus to learning about businesses. They study maps of Cherry Creek North to analyze existing shops, then take their learning into the field. During their visit, first graders survey employees and customers, asking questions about what people want and need. Using that feedback, each class votes on the type of store they will create. This year’s student-selected businesses included a puppy play place, an arcade, a movie theater, and a bakery/dough shop, each shaped by both student interests and the feedback they gathered from their surveys.

Through this process, first graders learn that running a business requires time, resources, and teamwork. They explore the roles of producers, consumers, and investors, and see how businesses rely on understanding their community.

With this foundation in place, students begin building their own stores. They choose a name, decide what to sell, create products, and determine pricing. Each student takes on a role, working together to bring the business to life.

Marketing is an important part of the process as well. First graders design signs, invite community members to visit, and film commercials in drama class. They also collaborate with Middle School graphic design students to create custom logos.

“Because the entire process is in their hands, we follow their interests and ideas to help their vision come to fruition,” Grade 1 Teacher Mrs. Lisa Ross said. “This naturally fosters student agency.”

By opening day, students are ready to step into their roles. They greet customers, work as sales associates, and apply real-time math skills while managing transactions.

“The store opening is a ‘live’ showcase of several disciplines,” Mrs. Ross said. “Beyond the academics, their growth in public speaking is on full display.”

Throughout the unit, first graders collaborate, problem-solve, and adapt as their ideas evolve. Each class creates a unique experience shaped by student interests.

“This is a student-driven unit, so it is different every year,” Mrs. Ross said. “I love seeing their excitement and motivation to create their vision.”

For families, the stores offer a meaningful window into student growth, highlighting not just what students have made, but who they are becoming.

“I hope visitors see more than just a store,” Mrs. Ross said. “I hope they notice the confidence, collaboration, and creativity their children have developed throughout the journey.”