Exciting changes are brewing at Moon Area High School! Beginning next year, students will have the opportunity to experience real-world business operations through the launch of a Coffee Tree Roasters stand right inside the school. The stand will begin by opening at the end of this school year on select days for teachers and special events like the Senior Sunrise, and is expected to operate more regularly next school year in the mornings and during homeroom.

Coffee Tree Roasters, a Pennsylvania-based company with locations across the state, is bringing this unique opportunity to Moon in collaboration with the business department. Students who take the full-year course will gain hands-on experience in every aspect of running a coffee shop—from making drinks and working with a payment system to budgeting and analyzing business reports.

The course, which will be taught by Mrs. Wilson, includes working some mornings to help run the stand. Students will learn to use the “Square System” for payments and generate financial reports to manage company operations. From budgeting ingredients to analyzing sales, students will essentially operate a business from the inside out.

Coffee Tree Roasters has been used in similar programs in districts like Peters Township, where it’s successfully helped students learn business and life skills. Special education students will also be involved, helping to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all learners.

Drinks will cost about $4 to $5—cheaper than average coffee shops like Starbucks—and will likely be available via card payment only. Pre-requisite classes such as Intro to Business and Entrepreneurship are required to participate. Applications are due by April 30th, with training beginning in the first week of May 2025.

Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a valuable learning opportunity, this new addition to Moon Area High School is sure to energize the campus in more ways than one.