Third-graders at Parkview Elementary School in Plymouth are getting a hands-on lesson about economics.

“We decided to have the kids run a ‘business,’ which is a fabulous way for the teachers to teach economic concepts in our social studies classes,” said Julie Kohlmann, third-grade teacher.

The three classes are competing against each other to see which business can make the most money. Profits from the businesses will help fund a field trip to the Milwaukee Public Museum this spring.

Mrs. Kohlmann’s class created The End of the Rainbow Café, a bake-sale business. Students baked cookies as a class – integrating science concepts of properties of matter –  then sold treats March 16 during recesses.

Mary Schmidt’s class held a cupcake sale, and Sarah Lee’s class hosted games and edibles at Worm Fest.