BERGHOLZ — Pupils are learning to become entrepreneurs at John Gregg Elementary School. Fifth- and sixth-graders in the enrichment program will demonstrate what they have learned during the school’s annual art show, scheduled to be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. March 14.

The art show’s newest feature will showcase the childrens’ creativity by displaying the original products they have created. Pupils will then sell those products during the event.

Art teacher Kelly Dopp, who heads the enrichment program with computer teacher Brooke Barker, explained this year’s event will allow patrons to purchase the homemade goods at an entrepreneur’s market.

“Our enrichment students are going to host an entrepreneur’s market,” she said. “Each student will create the product that they are going to sell. We’re going to determine the number of items to sell.”

The students are still deciding what their products are going to be, the program heads conveyed. They must craft a logo, a business plan and set a price for the product.

Dopp stated the supplies will be funded through a $660 Jefferson County Educational Service Center Best Practice Grant which she received for the project and which is expected to be self-sustaining. She said proceeds from the sales will go back into the fund for next year’s program. Any extra profits will be donated to a local charity.

Dopp said the enrichment class has been learning about business. Recently, they hosted Kenzie Everhart, a senior at Edison High School who is attending the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. The local teen established her dog treat business, Pleased Pooches, last year.

“We’re trying to encourage (our students) to sell something they are interested and invested in — something they think has a purpose and would be marketable,” Dopp added. “They will pitch product ideas to their classmates for feedback to determine if they will make it (for the market.) The students are excited about it.”

In addition, patrons will have a chance to peruse paintings and other artwork created by the school’s estimated 400 pupils in grades preschool through sixth. Dopp said the evening will be themed, “Rockets and Robots: Outer Space Art.” The event will feature a pop bottle bio display by second- through fourth-grade pupils, a food truck and a family make-and-take activity.

“They can go into a room and make something to take home,” Dopp continued. “It’s an opportunity for parents to make something with their kids.”

The annual show drew about 200 participants last year. She anticipates a similar crowd this year. Food will be provided by the Rusty Bull in Toronto. Items bought at the food truck can be eaten inside the cafeteria. Dopp noted the evening intends to bring students and their families together for some learning fun.

“The purpose is for students to showcase their artistic talent and for parents to see what their kids are doing in their related arts class,” she concluded. “I’m a big believer that elementary schools should produce well-rounded kids. We are highlighting their artwork and creativity is important for kids at this stage. We have a lot of artistic kids.”