The student run Busy Bean coffee shop has been a huge hit at École St. Joseph School

 

A new venture has popped up at École St. Joseph School and it has been filling the halls with a delicious aroma at lunchtime. The Busy Bean Coffee Shop offers a variety of different hot drinks made fresh to order, and homemade treats, too. Being able to grab a latte without leaving school might seem fantastic enough, but the absolute best part is that the shop is run by students.

The idea first came from Andy Goodspeed, the Inclusion Co-ordinator at École St. Joseph School because he wanted to create a type of mock environment that would teach real world job skills to students taking part in the Life Skills Program. Specialized for students with disabilities, the program provides an education that revolves around skills needed for life such as money math, budgeting, functional literacy, and assistance with day-to-day living.

After recognizing a need for a café or an alternative to the cafeteria at the school, Goodspeed and his educational assistant, Corry Pepper, put the pieces together and created The Busy Bean. “It’s something the students can have ownership of,” said Goodspeed. Not only do the students run the café but they also make the goodies they sell including big cookies. May was the first month for the pop-up shop and it has been such a hit with both students and faculty that the once-a-week venture has now increased to twice a week.

“They are learning cooking skills, food hygiene skills, food storage skills, taking orders, and giving back change. All the coffee is prepared by them, too. It’s a positive experience for all of us.” The money made through the café goes right back into it, so they can purchase the products needed for it. It will also enable them to have the same set up in the fall. “Any extra that is made will go back into the program to give the students further opportunities for growth and development both inside the school and out in the community,” explained Goodspeed.

The Life Skills Program currently has six members but is expected to expand to 12 next year. “I think it’s been truly beneficial. Their abilities are being met and stretched. With that, we see a reduction of behaviours and an increase in personal growth and development in these students. It’s easily measurable so it’s been a real success,” said Goodspeed. “With regards to the other kids in the school, they’ve been super supportive and welcoming. It has really brought the whole school community together.”

Pepper agreed. “This program is allowing their amazing abilities to shine.” Grade 12 student, Lane Tricoteux, was manning the coffee machine on Monday, May 28, and said he has really enjoyed learning how to work in a coffee shop. “I think making coffee has been a really great success. It feels really good when we have long lineups.” He said the project has boosted his confidence and that he would like to work in a real coffee shop one day.

Grade six student Isaac Cairnns was helping organize the orders as they came in and said he’s been having a lot of fun. “It’s been really good, and it’s been a lot of fun. It’s lots of different stuff to learn and I like doing it.”