Seaman Middle School’s halls are buzzing on mornings when the Viking Store is out and about. The Viking Store is a student-led mobile shop that sells homemade snacks and popular items. However, it has become much more than a school store. It’s a hands-on learning opportunity where students gain real-world experience, develop confidence, and build connections.
The Viking Store is led by special education teacher Jill Becker, who saw an opportunity for her students to gain valuable experience and skills. “Our main goals are for students to learn real-life job skills, communication, social skills, and consumer math skills,” Becker said. Students handle nearly every aspect of the business, from production and marketing to inventory and customer service.
Each week follows a busy schedule. On Mondays, students follow recipes and make the homemade food products they’ll sell that week. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the store is open during Viking Time, with student-run carts visiting each floor on a set schedule. Fridays are dedicated to inventory and planning for the following week. “Puppy Chow is definitely the favorite and sells out each week,” Becker said. “We’ve also made brownies, energy balls, and Rice Krispy treats and we’re planning to create holiday-themed recipes, too.”
Beyond learning to cook and sell products, students are developing workplace skills. They advertise the store, track sales trends, manage “Viking Bucks” transactions, and practice customer service. Along with business skills they are developing, students are showing growth in their confidence and social interactions.
One of the most meaningful outcomes of the Viking Store is the way it brings students together. The store is run by students in the special education program but serves the entire school. Students in the building support the store by purchasing items, and everyone’s involvement helps to build a sense of community and inclusion. “It provides an opportunity for general education students to better appreciate the differences that each of us may have," said Becker. The Viking Store’s success is measured not only by sales but also by student participation, social interactions, and enthusiasm. "Staff and students have been very supportive and like the format of how it’s being run this year.
Looking ahead, Becker hopes to incorporate the Viking Store into her class next year. “Right now, we’re trying to complete all the necessary responsibilities during Viking Time,” she said. “Having the extra time by it being a class will allow us to do even more.”
The store’s success has also been supported by donations. The PTO, parents, businesses, and staff have all contributed through donations of snacks, blankets, fidgets, journals, and funds. Continued community support, especially through gift cards, helps students have a voice in what products are purchased and sold. If you would like to help support the SMS Viking Store, they are currently accepting gift card donations to help purchase inventory for future sales.
The Viking Store is more than just a school store. It has become a meaningful way for Seaman Middle School students to learn and connect while preparing students for their future.