Albuquerque Public Schools
Turning Recycled Goods into Real-World Lessons
Fourth graders at Mary Ann Binford host Mercado celebrating economic learning and creativity.
The Mary Ann Binford Elementary courtyard transformed into a bustling marketplace on May 9 as fourth graders hosted their first Mercado. Students proudly displayed products made entirely from recycled or natural materials, reflecting weeks of learning and hands-on application of economic principles. Families were invited to use "fake money" to purchase these handcrafted goods, experiencing firsthand the creativity and business skills of the young entrepreneurs.
Cristina Rincon, a fourth-grade teacher at Mary Ann Binford, said the Mercado is the culmination of economic studies that begin early in the school year.
"In fourth grade, students study the economy, including certain objectives, vocabulary, cost-benefit analysis, and we learn what an entrepreneur is, what the economy is," she said. "We asked the students to make everything with recycled and or natural material, because that's zero cost.”
While this is the first time the Mercado has been held at Mary Ann Binford, Rincon said she has hosted this event in previous roles and saw great success.
“I'm amazed at what the students produce,” she added. “Oftentimes I see students who don't normally do well academically at the traditional subjects that find a way to shine, and I've seen that here as well."
Student-created business cards, elaborate stands and unique displays filled the courtyard, showcasing not just products but real-world business practices. Leadership, creativity and environmental awareness were on full display, as each student entrepreneur eagerly greeted shoppers and explained their work. This hands-on experience provided a memorable way to apply classroom learning to practical, community-focused projects.
The fourth Grade Mercado at Mary Ann Binford is more than just a market—it's an educational experience that brings economics to life while championing sustainability and innovation among its youngest business leaders.