At Hamilton High School, Ms. Mackenzie Westra’s Daily Living Skills class has launched a creative initiative that not only spreads joy to teachers but also helps students practice essential life skills. The newly introduced “Teacher Treat Cart” is a fun, hands-on experience where students learn money management, customer service, and social interaction—all while brightening the day of their educators.
The idea for the treat cart was inspired by Hamilton High School principal Mr. Mitch Bosch and assistant principal, Mr. David Shepard, who suggested it as a way to show appreciation for teachers while also reinforcing work-based learning skills for students. “We focus a lot on work-based learning skills and skills that are going to help our students in the long run, outside of high school and outside of Hamilton,” Ms. Westra explained.
Roughly every month, teachers receive $5 in fake "monopoly money" in their mailboxes, which they can use to purchase snacks and drinks like candy bars, chips, beef jerky, soda, coffee, and water when the treat cart makes its rounds. The experience provides a real-world lesson in financial literacy, as students must count money, add up totals, and determine whether change is needed.
“It’s just been an overwhelming excitement from all the teachers in the building and staff, and our kids love doing it,” Ms. Westra said. Senior Ben Popma added, "I like doing this, I like doing the math.” Fellow senior Serenity Smith-Jackson mentioned, “In the future, you have to learn how to count money and do financial stuff, like budgeting and working a cash register at a job.”
Beyond running the cart, students also help manage inventory, learning how to restock, face shelves, and track supplies. They even take trips to Sam’s Club or Meijer to shop for more items, making the experience even more immersive.
For teachers, the treat cart is more than just a snack stop—it’s a moment of appreciation. “I’m excited because we get to make the teachers smile,” said sophomore Charlee Hoover. “It makes me happy that we can make their day and make them feel special because they do things for us.”
The Teacher Treat Cart has quickly become one of the favorite days for many at Hamilton High School, blending practical learning with a culture of kindness.
