SHOP
it,” says Flanhofer. “The cart goes out three times a day with
two workers and one paraprofessional or teacher. The apparel
merchandise is only sold during activity periods in the Space Shop
Room 124.”
The project has become invaluable to students at Mars Area
High School. “The kids look forward to my students coming
daily—and if we don’t show up during their study hall, they come
looking for us!” laughs Flanhofer. “This project has created a great
relationship with kids of every age, grade and ability at Mars Area,
and has been a great way for the special education students to get
more involved with the rest of the school.”
The project has also become very important to the special
education students. In addition to the great relationships and new
friendships they’ve formed, the project allows students to expand
their communication skills, improve their money and budgeting
skills and more. “This is the closest we’ve come to teaching a true
life skill,” says Flanhofer. “The students do all of the finances,
balances and inventory, so they are gaining a real understanding
of expenses, income and outcome that will apply to the working
world later in life.”
Since its initiation, the Mars Space Shop and Mobile Cart
project has set its focus on continuing to sell and increase revenue.
There were even new offerings added, including holiday items
such as Valentine grams. “So many people lent a helping hand
in making this project successful, including the Mars Planet
Foundation that graciously funded the project, as well as many of
my colleagues,” notes Flanhofer. “Also, I could have never been so
successful without the great help of my paraprofessionals—Gloria
Ferguson, Yvonne Heltsley, Cherri Pistner and Polly Novotny.
They are such an amazing group of adults to work with!”
For more information about the Mars Space Shop and Mobile
Cart, email [email protected]. n
Mars Area | Summer 2017 | icmags.com 19