MILFORD _ A new program offers Milford High School students practical experience in the business world.
The entrepreneur class, taught by Robin Bush, is open to students in grades 9 through 12, she said. As one of its projects, it has created a nonprofit business, which is selling merchandise through its website, www.southofcooperstown.com.
It is part of the Milford Central School Educational Foundation, Bush said.
The effort will be used to lower the cost to the community of regular events supported by fundraisers, including trips by the safety patrol and the yearbook, Bush said. Funds can also be used for community service projects and student scholarships.
The business is still in its startup phase, Bush said, but she said she appreciated help from Milford entrepreneur Nicholas Mangano, who operates the cooperstown.com website and has a daughter in the class.
The 10 students in the elective class were enthusiastic in discussing the experience Wednesday.
Sophomore Tim Borggreen, 16, said he heard about the class at the end of last year and jumped at the chance to participate.
"It will open up a whole new door on what I can do in my life," he said.
He said he hopes to start his own garage and customize cars in the future, adding that "this will give me an idea about what I can expect."
"It's a unique experience to watch our business grow," freshman Parker Fish, 15, said of the class.
Mangano approached him about the class last year, saying he would benefit from it. "He was right," Fish said.
"It's not like a regular class," Mangano said. The students are involved in learning how to operate their own business by discussing theory, working on their website and listening to speakers, including local business owners.
On Wednesday, Juli Sharratt discussed her experiences as owner of Beaver Valley Campground and Cooperstown Baseball Camp, along with her husband.
She told the class how the couple started Beaver Valley Campground in 1988 and benefited from using the Internet. She advised students to be realistic in their planning and make sure their information is accurate.
The class is a good opportunity for students to learn about business, she said.
"I was so impressed by the way they pick this up," Mangano said.
