Students in Decatur County Schools’ Gifted Program (QUEST) and Advanced Content classes recently brought creativity, collaboration, and real-world learning together during the annual Merry Market at Hutto Elementary School.
This beloved tradition was revitalized by Ms. Porche Chavers, a gifted educator at Hutto Elementary, with support from Ms. Brandi Deal, QUEST Resource Teacher and Gifted Coordinator for Decatur County Schools. Together, they helped bring the Merry Market back to campus as a meaningful, student-centered learning experience.
The Merry Market emphasizes economics and entrepreneurship, giving students the opportunity to apply classroom concepts in an authentic setting. Students design and produce their own products, determine pricing, develop marketing strategies, and sell their items to judges, parents, teachers, and fellow students. Purchases are made using a ticket system, reinforcing budgeting and financial decision-making skills.
Through this hands-on experience, students build critical skills such as creativity, problem-solving, communication, and responsibility—key components of the QUEST and Advanced Content curriculum.
Decatur County Schools extends a sincere thank you to the community judges who volunteered their time to support students and help make this event a success. Their involvement plays an important role in encouraging student learning and strengthening school-community partnerships.
The Merry Market continues to be a strong example of how experiential learning prepares students for future success while celebrating innovation and collaboration across Decatur County.