Stratford fourth graders began the school year by transforming their summer reading into an opportunity to apply classroom learning and serve the community. After reading The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies, students completed a project that explored the novel’s themes through creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.

Students selected from a variety of project options, including designing book-inspired board games, writing biographies of the main characters, developing advertising campaigns, and planning and operating their own lemonade stands. Through these activities, students strengthened their reading comprehension and communication skills while learning important principles of entrepreneurship, marketing, and financial literacy.

Those who operated lemonade stands created supply lists, tracked expenses and income, calculated profits, and reflected on how they would use their earnings. The experience allowed students to apply mathematical concepts in a meaningful setting while learning about planning, decision-making, and responsible business practices.

The project’s greatest impact extended beyond the classroom. Students who hosted lemonade stands chose to donate their profits to organizations and families throughout the community. Together, they raised an impressive $4,535—the highest total in the project’s history.

Their donations supported Daybreak, the Macon Volunteer Clinic, local animal rescues, Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House Charities, the Macon Rescue Mission, and the family of ACE student Gabe Eisner.

By connecting literature with entrepreneurship and service, the project gave students the opportunity to see how their learning can make a meaningful difference. Stratford is proud of these fourth graders for approaching their work with creativity, purpose, and compassion.