White Plains High School students are trying out their own “Shark Tank” experience through an elective course that fosters entrepreneurship.
INCubatoredu is a one-year program in which the school partners with the Westchester Innovation Network, a program of the Westchester Business Council, that offers juniors and seniors the opportunity to develop their own business ideas. Students spend a year creating a product and business plan. They ultimately have the chance to pitch their ideas on a regional and sometimes national level and compete for investment funds ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.
Rocco Baruolo, the district's K-12 educational technology, business and library media services coordinator, oversees the program. He said business leaders and coaches work with students throughout the year to help them turn their ideas and business plans into reality.
Mentors include computer scientists, bank executives, and local business owners, including one of the owners of the famous Walter's Hog Dog Stand in Mamaroneck.
Ashley LeBlanc, a high school teacher who teaches this course, says, “INCubatoredu is setting the standard for project-based learning. Everything students hear, say, and do in the classroom is part of their startup. will be applied immediately.”
This year's program features student teams working on a variety of startup ideas. A team is developing a non-invasive way for diabetics to monitor their blood sugar levels and an app to help them manage their condition. Another team is developing odor-resistant carry bags for athletes, and another is developing scented carry bags for use by workers in industries with toxic or unpleasant odors, such as hygiene and cleaning tasks. We are developing a nose ring-like device.
“I’m excited to be a part of this team,” said senior Thiago Baraldi, who considers himself an aspiring entrepreneur and plans to study business in college. Together with our team, we can generate unique ideas and implement them. ”
