Nora Callahan, Pine Bush High School teacher and business department chair, and her students were recently awarded the Dream Shop Scholarship from heat printing leader, STAHLS. This scholarship provided over $6,000 worth of heat printing equipment and training to support a new school spirit apparel store.

Pine Bush High School formerly had a school store, but it had not been used since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Callahan sought to revive the store and give her students hands-on experience running a business.

“I used to work in the business world, but there’s no amount of stories I can tell or class projects I can assign that can substitute for real experience,” said Callahan.

Her students had the majority of the control of the business. They decided that school apparel should be the focus and created various clothing lines of merchandise such as a pastel spring line.

“My kids talked about how school spirit was kind of dead after COVID,” said Callahan, “We felt that having nice school merchandise could help.”

Callahan had applied for the STAHLS’ Dream Shop Scholarship expecting a difficult process; however, they accepted her as a finalist and determined her the winner in the first minutes of her interview.

STAHLS was able to ship equipment to the school within a few days and allowed the students to try different types of equipment to determine what best suited their business. The company also sent experts to train the students to use the equipment and techniques. They were able to provide samples and assist in the brainstorming of new ideas for designs.

“I’m incredibly lucky to have such involved and enthusiastic kids,” expressed Callahan, “Our principal and administration were also super supportive of us.”

The store has had widely positive feedback, with many students and staff purchasing their clothing. They also designed and sold shirts for the clubs of the school as well as the senior class. Callahan even brought her students to the town vendor fair.

“Although many of my seniors will be gone, I have a good group of students and I think the store will continue.”

Callahan said this opportunity provides a way for students to see how running their own business functions and even pursue options other than college.

“Our school and principal have recently been offering more opportunities for students that may want to pursue a trade or business or something else,” said Callahan, “It really allows kids to learn to be successful in what’s best for them.