Project-Based Learning in Action

Turn your classroom into a real-world business experience with a school store vending machine.

How Spirit Box Enhances Project-Based Learning

Spirit Box’s school store vending program gives students a hands-on learning opportunity where students can apply business concepts in real time, gaining entrepreneurial, financial, and operational skills they can use in their careers. 

Data-Driven Decision Making

Using Spirit Box’s online sales reporting platform, students can analyze real-time sales data, track trends, and optimize operations just like professional business owners.

Cross-Curricular Learning

Integrate business concepts across math, marketing, economics, and technology for a well-rounded, immersive learning experience.

Real-World Business Experience

Students don’t just learn about business—they run one. From inventory management to pricing strategies, Spirit Box turns learning into action.

Entrepreneurial Thinking

Encourage creative problem-solving as students experiment with marketing, product selection, and customer engagement strategies to boost sales.

DECA Club’s One Machine Hits Record Sales

Park Tudor High School, Indiana

Students generated $49,000 in 2024, processing 21,500 transactions–quickly becoming the top-performing high school DECA club with only one Spirit Box snack machine.

Transforming School Store Vending

Camdenton High School, Missouri

Since their vending takeover in 2019, this student-led school store has seen impressive growth. In just the first year, sales skyrocketed from $7,176 to $16,253—a staggering 126% increase!

High School students Take over the Vending Business

Rio Rancho High School, New Mexico

The students launched two vending machines with $17,384 in sales. By year three, they added a beverage box which grew sales to $63,191– a 263% increase. By year four, they became a well-oiled machine, growing another 76% to hit $111,572 in total sales in 2022-23.

  • "Biggest perk? It provides the majority of funding for my program and DECA Chapter!"

    - Elisa Shoemaker, Clinton High School

Project-Based Learning Opportunities with Spirit Box

Marketing & Branding

Design promotions, social media campaigns, and school-wide advertisements.

Financial Management

Track expenses, set pricing, and analyze profit margins.

Inventory & Operations

Manage restocking schedules, assess product performance, and improve efficiency.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Experiment with new product offerings, pricing models, and customer engagement strategies.

Leadership & Teamwork

Assign roles such as CEO, finance manager, and marketing director for a true business team experience.

Why Schools Love Spirit Box for PBL

Student-Led & Teacher-Supported – Advisors provide guidance while students take ownership of the business.

Customizable & Scalable – Adapt Spirit Box to any subject, skill level, or class size.

No-Risk Learning Environment – Students gain real-world skills in a safe, structured setting.

Prepares Students for the Future – Builds critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills that translate to college and career success.