Albuquerque Public Schools
Edward Gonzales 5th Graders Shine at Business Fair
Hands-on economics lessons empower students to create their own businesses, present to real entrepreneurs and earn startup capital.
Fifth graders at Edward Gonzales Elementary are gaining real-world skills beyond the classroom. They recently pitched their own business ideas at the school’s annual Business Fair, a culminating event that showcases what they’ve learned about financial literacy and entrepreneurship. This year’s event was bigger and better than ever.
For three years, 5th grade teacher Raquel Padilla has brought financial education to life through a classroom economy system that teaches students how to earn, budget and spend money responsibly. What began as a behavior incentive program evolved into a comprehensive economics unit that includes topics like taxes, credit, debt and supply and demand.
“These kids are almost teenagers and we want them to learn how to manage money and how to be responsible,” Padilla said. “Every adult has to manage money in some way, and learning the basic fundamentals now is really important. We've learned about taxes, credit cards, different kinds of debt. We put that learning into action with our Business Fair.”
This year, fifth grade teacher Shannon Richesin joined the project with her students, who also created presentations. Students in both classes wrote business plans, designed logos using Canva, and created business cards—thanks to a creative collaboration with art teacher Monica Di Bisceglie, who taught students basic graphic design skills to bring their brands to life.
At the Business Fair, students pitched their products and services to real-life entrepreneurs and business leaders who provided feedback and asked thoughtful questions. Guests included local business owners Mel Montano and Melissa Sanchez. School Board Member Crystal Tapia-Romero and her husband, Ricardo Romero, who own several businesses, also participated.
Four students with standout ideas and presentations were selected for a special opportunity: Francisco Valenzuela (clothing brand), Delayah Saiz (custom cup business), Emmanuel Mendoza (bracelet business), and Marisella Reyes (slime products) will all sell their goods at the Back to School Bash on July 26, an event hosted by local entrepreneur Celina Trujillo. Each student will receive $125 in startup funding from Tapia-Romero and her husband to help grow their businesses.
The Business Fair is more than a school project — it’s a launchpad for lifelong learning and leadership. With guidance from their teachers and the support of the local business community, these young entrepreneurs are off to an impressive start.