Mead School Students Launch "Dope Soap Co." 

Every Tuesday afternoon, students at the Mead School are getting a taste of entrepreneurship through an exciting after-school program that's teaching them the fundamentals of running a business – one bar of soap at a time.
The Dope Soap Co., part of Mead’s Young Entrepreneurs After School Program, offers students an age-appropriate, immersive experience in brand creation, marketing, advertising, sales, and teamwork. Rather than learning about business from textbooks, these young CEOs are building a company from the ground up, embodying the principles of progressive education through real-world application.
"The idea of this program is to give students a brand new opportunity to experience the ever-growing world of start-up businesses and entrepreneurship that has gained popularity in recent years," explains Frank Pollifrone, the program's founder, who brings personal experience as an organization owner to the classroom.

Inquiry-Based Learning Meets Real Business
The program exemplifies inquiry-based learning, with students driving the creative process through questions, experimentation, and collaborative problem-solving. Participants have already developed the company name, designed a logo, launched a mock website, and created an Instagram presence to build their brand – all while mastering the hands-on craft of soap-making.
"The most fun part is smelling the unique scents and coming up with new color schemes for each batch of soap!" Sylvie (grade 5) notes, highlighting the sensory and creative aspects that keep students engaged.
This hands-on learning approach allows students to see immediate results from their efforts, connecting abstract business concepts to tangible outcomes. From mixing ingredients to packaging products, every step reinforces practical skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

A Sense of Purpose Through Soap
The program's ultimate goal reflects Mead’s student-centered philosophy: participants will sell their handcrafted soap to raise funds for a community celebration of their choosing – whether an ice cream party, foam party, or another event selected by the students themselves.
By working toward a goal that benefits their entire school community, students develop not only business acumen but also leadership skills and social responsibility.
"As an organization founder and owner myself, I know how fun this can be for our students and the new life skills and inspiration it can help create in students to possibly one day become real business owners themselves," Frank shared.
The Young Entrepreneurs program operates under a guiding philosophy captured in its motto: ABC – Always Be Creative. 
Through The Dope Soap Co., Mead School students are learning that education extends beyond traditional academics – it's about exploration, creation, and discovering what they're capable of achieving when given the opportunity to lead.