Business Management & Entrepreneurship

Program Instructor:

Jennifer Cummings Phone Number: (802)885-8337 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

General Program Description:

The Business Management & Entrepreneurship program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles and entrepreneurship. The program focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, offering hands-on training through activities such as working in the school store (Campus Connection). The skills acquired in the program can be applied to various careers and fields beyond traditional business roles.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) involvement adds an extra layer of opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and connect with a broader business community. Overall, the program prepares students for entrepreneurship but also equips them with versatile skills applicable to different career paths, whether they choose to pursue further education in business or directly enter the workforce.

Program Highlights:

• • • • Embark on a two-year immersive experience overseeing the operations of the school store (Campus Connection). From managing sales and inventory to crafting effective advertising campaigns and implementing cash planning strategies, you'll gain hands-on expertise across various business facets.
        
        
      • Master the art of crafting a comprehensive business plan, laying a solid foundation for any successful venture.
        
        
      • Harness your creativity as you design and execute your own advertising campaigns, developing practical skills that extend beyond the classroom.
        
        
      • Cultivate invaluable leadership and management skills essential for navigating the dynamic business landscape.

Business Management & Entrepreneurship Level I

Credit: 3-4 elective credits
Eligibility: Students in grades 10, 11 and 12
Prerequisites: None

Scheduled Class Time: Full-year; 2 hours per day, 7:45 AM to 9:45 AM or 11:40 AM to 1:40 PM

Business Management & Entrepreneurship I Highlights:

In the first year of the Business Management & Entrepreneurship program, students delve into the fundamental aspects of business, with a primary emphasis on establishing a robust financial foundation. The opening focus of the year is on Personal Financial Management, where students gain a comprehensive understanding of their individual finances. This knowledge serves as a crucial precursor to handling the financial intricacies of a business.

Transitioning into the second semester, the program's curriculum strategically pivots toward the dynamic realm of Digital Marketing. Throughout the semester, students gain valuable insights into contemporary marketing methodologies, digital platforms, and emerging trends that are instrumental in crafting effective and impactful marketing campaigns. 

Students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also acquire practical experience by actively participating in Campus Connection, the school store. This hands-on involvement allows them to apply the acquired knowledge in a real-world setting, enhancing their skills and preparing them for the dynamic challenges of the business environment.

Business Management & Entrepreneurship II

Credit: 2-3 Elective Credit
Eligibility: Students in grades 11 and 12
Prerequisites: Grade of 70 or better in Business and Financial Services I or written permission from the instructor
Scheduled Class Time: Full-year; 2 hours per day, 7:45 AM to 9:45 AM or 11:40 AM to 1:40 PM

Business Management & Entrepreneurship Level II Highlights:

In Business Management & Entrepreneurship II, students delve deeper into the multifaceted world of business operations. The first semester of the course unfolds as an immersive exploration into the realm of Small Business Management. During this phase, students actively engage in a hands-on business simulation designed to replicate the challenges inherent to starting and sustaining a small business venture. 

Transitioning into the second semester, the focus shifts to QuickBooks, a preeminent financial accounting software widely embraced across various industries. Through interactive modules, students gain practical experience in utilizing QuickBooks, honing their skills in financial tracking, reporting, and analysis. The emphasis on QuickBooks not only enhances students' proficiency in a vital business tool but also underscores the significance of efficient financial management in sustaining and scaling enterprises. 

In essence, the Business Management & Entrepreneurship II course transcends traditional learning paradigms, providing students with a holistic and experiential education that prepares them to navigate the complexities of contemporary business environments with confidence and proficiency.

Post-Secondary Opportunities:

Pursue an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in one of the following areas:

• Business Management
• Accounting
• E-commerce
• Marketing
• Small Business Management & Entrepreneurship
• Business Administration
• Finance
• General Business

  

• Sports Management
• Communications & Advertising
• Business Education
• International Business
• Human Resource Management
• Business Technology

Career Opportunities:

• Banking
• Retail
• Sports & Entertainment Marketing
• Account Executive
• E-Commerce
• Real Estate Sales
• Accountant or Bookkeeper
• Investor/Entrepreneur
• Small Business Owner
• Advertising & Promotion
• Insurance

Embedded Academic Credit: English and Math

Dual Enrollment / Postsecondary Agreements:

Year 1: River Valley Community College - ACCT 207R - Personal Financial Management (3 credit hours)

Course Description: This course is designed to provide an overview of all aspects of personal financial management, including budgeting, tax planning, retirement planning, and personal investments.

Year 2: River Valley Community College - BUS 204R - Small Business Management (3 credit hours)

Course Description: A study of management techniques as applied to small businesses. Includes requirements necessary in launching a new venture and managing an ongoing business. Topics covered include business plan development, computer applications, human resources, purchasing, marketing, taxation, and risk management and control procedures. Requires students to develop a comprehensive business plan for a new venture of their choosing, which is presented as both an oral and written proposal.

 Industry Recognized Credentials:

• Servsafe Basic Food Handler
• QuickBooks Certified User Online

Vermont Career Technical Education (CTE) Program Critical Proficiencies

Business CTE Programs

Pre-Tech Foundational CTE Programs

Program Advisory Members and Organization:

• Dan Richardson - Edward Jones
• Caitlin Christiana - Director of Community & Culture, Black River Innovation Campus
• Todd Priestley - President, Lovejoy Tool
• Sue Dana - Senior Solutions Finance Director & CPA
• Marie Gelineau - Retired Banking Industry
• Mike Schmidt - Founder & Owner, Black River Coffee Bar
• Kelly Broker-Campbell - Outreach Coordinator, RVTC
• Renee Hebert - Assistant Vice President, M&T Bank

Program Links:

Find us on Facebook: RVTC Campus Connection.

Student/Parent Quotes:

"Business & Financial Services and DECA have not only taught me the basic skills required for business but skills that will help me in any career path. DECA, especially, has given me the confidence in my abilities to present myself to any audience."
"Business & Financial Services taught me how to be a successful leader and business owner. It has taught me patience and persistence when working with others, that in working together we can create amazing things."

"My Business & Financial Services class has taught me how to properly run and operate a business. It will help me in my future plans of possibly running and operating our family farm."

“The Business Program at RVTC shaped my life and who I am today.” - Former Student.

Pre Tech Foundations/Intro Course Description - Springfield High Only

Introduction To Business Management & Entrepreneurship

½ credit
Instructor: Ms. Cummings

This foundational course offers practical, hands-on learning experiences encompassing accounting, management, marketing, human resources, production, and distribution. Additionally, students will delve into the diverse range of rewarding career opportunities within the business field. The curriculum not only imparts essential business principles but also illustrates how these principles can positively impact both professional careers and personal lives

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