Kent Place Introduces KEEY$: KPS Ethical Entrepreneurs & Young innovator$

Kent Place School is pleased to announce that one of its signature programs in the sixth grade has a new name — one that reflects its expanded curriculum and enhanced focus on innovation and ethics. Introducing: KEEY$ — KPS Ethical Entrepreneurs & Young innovator$. 

Formerly known as TREP$, KEEY$ builds on the program’s foundation and will further empower sixth-grade students to understand fundamental economic principles, explore the world of invention and innovation, develop entrepreneurial thinking, and cultivate a strong sense of ethical and environmental responsibility.

“Over the past almost 10 years, we’ve redefined the original TREP$ curriculum by weaving together our signature programs of financial literacy, ethics, and leadership,” says Neisha Payne, Director of the Middle School. “In the process, we’re demonstrating to our students that true innovation emerges at the intersection of disciplines, a reflection of our school’s belief in the power of interdisciplinary learning.”

“I’m thrilled for this year’s KEEY$ program,” says Holly Moller, sixth-grade science teacher and KEEY$ facilitator. “This enhanced curriculum is designed to empower girls to be confident, intellectual, and ethical leaders who advance the world, directly aligning with the Kent Place mission.”

KEEY$ officially kicks off on Monday, November 3, and will culminate in the annual marketplace this spring. Over the course of the year, the sixth-graders will learn to investigate consumer needs, understand the critical concept of scarcity and resource management, and apply high ethical standards when developing business products. 

Students will take part in hands-on challenges designed to build core economic and financial literacy. One challenge students will tackle is “Trash to Treasure,” when they’ll work in teams to transform donated old fabrics into new, functional uniforms, gaining experience in product development, finances, market research, advertising, and salesmanship. Later on, before debuting their businesses at the marketplace, students will enter the “Shark Tank,” in which they’ll pitch their products, outline their business plans, and respond to questions in front of panels of “sharks” (Kent Place Upper School students, faculty, staff, and parents).

“The most rewarding part of this intensive journey? Selling the finished products to the entire Kent Place community,” says Ms. Moller.

Be sure to save the date for this year’s KEEY$ Marketplace, which will take place in the Field House on March 26, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Follow @kentplaceschool on Instagram for project updates and milestones throughout the year.