During a Sachem Board of Education meeting last week, students from Sachem East and Sachem North spoke elegantly about the “virtual enterprises” business course offered at the high schools.
Students create a professional organization in the classroom by building business plans, assigning roles and responsibilities, scheduling meetings and executing on strategy.
“Virtual enterprises creates an environment where students take ownership of their learning,” said Tom Sullivan, Sachem North’s Business Chairperson.
Students determine what type of business they would like to create and run out of the classroom. They establish their organizational structure and interview for positions that fit them best. Once the responsibilities are assigned students realized their importance to the entire organization.
“This allows the students to maintain a checks and balance system that drives them to success,” added Sullivan. “The skills and knowledge acquired in Virtual Enterprises are similar to what we have been providing in business education for many years, the difference is that in a VE classroom it all comes together in one place – the student workplace within their school.”
Students on the virtual enterprises course:
Chris Fasano – North Ink Chief Operations Officer: “Virtual Enterprises provides us with a strong perspective of what is it like to run a business. I love this class because it gives me an overview of what my future may look like.”
Justin Beck – North Ink Director of Sales: “Allows us freedom to express our ideas on how to execute a business. We communicate and collaborate on a regular basis so that we succeed. Our success depends on us.”
“Nick Brandow – IT Director and Web Design: “Unique experience that models the real-world or office in our classroom.”
Alessandro Imperiale – VP of Accounting and Sales: “Useful to learn how legal and financial aspects work within an organization.”