Sustainability and Social Impact on Display at Sixth-Grade KEEY$ Co-op

The energy in Atwood Hall was palpable on March 26 as Kent Place’s sixth-grade students hosted the first-ever Middle School KEEY$ Co-op. Formerly known as TREP$, KEEY$ (KPS Ethical Entrepreneurs & Young innovator$) empowers 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.

The Co-op was the culmination of months of hard work. Over the course of the year, the sixth-graders learned to investigate consumer needs, understand the critical concepts of scarcity and resource management, and apply high ethical standards when developing business products. 

At the Co-op, each of several groups presented a unique product, carefully considering not only design and function but also purpose. From all-natural skincare items and handmade candles to bracelets, vision boards, and clay figurines, no two booths were the same.

Many businesses focused on sustainability and wellness. Products such as sugar scrubs, bath sets, and eco-friendly bracelets highlighted the importance of self-care and environmental responsibility. Others aimed to spark joy and creativity, such as memory boards capturing moments around campus and customizable jewelry designed to boost confidence and self-expression.

Says Soumya Nanden ’32, “What made me most proud of my product, a body scrub, was the variety. People liked different scents. One thing I learned from the marketplace was that the look of the product really matters. Scrubs that sold out had a cute, pastel aesthetic. We had more of a natural vibe, which was less popular.”

Also on display was the students’ commitment to social impact. Each business raised awareness for an organization, ranging from The Bee Conservancy and Clean Shores to Girls on the Run, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, and local animal shelters. 

Affordability and accessibility were also key components of the event. With all items priced under $10, the Co-op invited the entire community to participate. Students encouraged attendees to bring reusable shopping bags, reinforcing their commitment to reducing waste.

“Thank you to everyone who attended the Co-op. It meant the world to the young entrepreneurs,” says Holly Moller, sixth-grade science teacher and KEEY$ facilitator, “and there’s still lots more to learn!” 

Students will spend the last few weeks of school learning about the financial details of their particular business — profits, loss, and total revenue, for example. They’ll also be looking at statistics on women in business and STEM fields, as well as the concept of the global economic supply chain.