Angell 2nd graders raise money for the Humane Society of Huron Valley

Class unit in economics leads to the fundraising sale of handmade goods

The Humane Society of Huron Valley has an extra $626 to continue the work of the shelter thanks to the efforts of both second grade classes at Angell Elementary.

Amy Williams’ and Yvonne Mato’s students were learning about economics when they decided to raise money for a good cause.

“Our second grade craft sale is a fun and exciting culminating project that we started before the pandemic where students put to use the economic skills they were taught during our class unit,” said Williams.  “It’s a day where they get to be entrepreneurs and sell things they have crafted to our school community.  Overall, it’s a fun and engaging way to learn economics, utilize their math skills such as counting change, and practice communication all while benefiting a charity that the students select.”

Mato explained that the students generated their own small business ideas, and came up with five goods they could sell to their fellow students.

“The students had to think about how they would create their product, which supplies they would need, and cooperate with one another while they became producers,” she said. “A big thank you is owed to our parents, without whom we could not accomplish such a big project. And of course all of the parents at Angell that sent their students in with funds to purchase from our little businesses! The students were able to learn some great economics vocabulary as well, such as opportunity cost, scarcity, supply, and demand. The kids voted to donate all of their proceeds to the Humane Society of Huron Valley. We have a big group of animal lovers. It’s been a great experience and we are so thankful to be able to pull it off.”

Jessie Hitt of the Humane Society of Huron Valley stopped by the school Tuesday to accept the check, talk about the shelter’s work, and answer questions from the students.

She said the gift was particularly generous, considering the age of the givers.

“We’re going to be able to supply food, toys, enrichment, all of those good things to our animals,” Hitt said.