Help me give my students real-world retail experience by providing a vending machine for real-world practice.
$7,631 goal
This project expired on September 17, 2025.
This project expired on September 17, 2025.
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Project
Students will use the vending machine as a real-world learning tool to operate a small business within our school. As part of our Retail Management course, they will manage every aspect of its operation—from selecting and pricing inventory, to stocking the machine, tracking sales, and analyzing profit margins. The vending machine will serve as a hands-on extension of classroom lessons, turning theoretical concepts into real experiences.
One key learning outcome is for students to understand how supply and demand, pricing strategy, and marketing tactics work together in a retail environment.
They will conduct surveys to determine what products are in demand, create marketing materials to promote new items, and use sales data to make informed restocking decisions. Additionally, students will take turns in management roles, helping them build leadership, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
Profits generated from the vending machine will be used to help cover DECA conference fees for students, making these career-building opportunities more accessible. All fundraising and spending will follow our school’s ASB (Associated Student Body) guidelines to ensure proper management and transparency.
By the end of the project, students will have gained valuable experience in inventory control, customer service, budgeting, and entrepreneurship—skills that prepare them for both entry-level retail jobs and future business ventures. This project gives them a sense of ownership, accountability, and pride in their work, while also supporting the school community with a convenient on-campus resource.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
900 students impacted
Boost your odds
Add a profile photo in addition to your classroom photo. If you add a photo, it'll show up right here on your project page.
You are more likely to receive funding if you put a face to your name.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Escobar and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
