“It’s a live simulation of a restaurant,” Mahlmann says. “Students manage everything—production, service, scheduling, even customer feedback—but in a safe space where they can fail forward and learn.” Nearby, a student-run retail store showcases products made across multiple programs: carpentry projects from construction students, plants from horticulture, and original artwork and branded apparel from graphic design. Students manage pricing, marketing, and sales strategy, learning what sells, what doesn’t, and why. “They start to realize things like profit margins, mass production, and customer engagement,” says Dr. Poenitzsch. “It’s powerful to see them make those connections before they ever step into the real market.” Students even set their own workplace standards— no cell phones, team uniforms, and professional customer service. “They take pride in it,” she adds. “They’ve made it their own.” The district is expanding these efforts to include farm-to-market initiatives, where produce grown in the school’s gardens will supply the café and store. “It’s collaboration in motion—construction, art, horticulture, culinary—all working together,” Poenitzsch says. PARTNERSHIPS THAT BUILD FUTURES Bellville ISD’s career-connected learning thrives because of its partnerships with local employers, institutions, and organizations. Healthcare students rotate through departments at MidCoast Medical Center – Bellville, gaining exposure to patient care, administration, and allied health services.The district’s partnership with Blinn College provides college credit and workforce certifications, while the Bellville Chamber of Commerce keeps educators informed about evolving business needs. “We’re constantly bringing employers to the table,” says Mahlmann. “They visit classrooms, host site tours, and help us refine our programs. It’s about keeping our pathways relevant.” 181 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 BELLVILLE ISD
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