5th Grade Social Entrepreneur Expo

June 2, 2025

The Buckley community is warmly invited to the Social Entrepreneur Expo on Wednesday, June 4, at 10:30 AM in the library—an inspiring culmination of our fifth graders’ deep dive into global citizenship and social impact.

Over the past month, fifth grade students have immersed themselves in understanding the challenges faced by communities around the world. Through thoughtful research and hands-on experiences, they developed their own social enterprises to raise awareness and support for causes they care about. The logos for their businesses—each one unique and meaningful—are featured in the photo above.

A key part of their journey included exploring microfinance through Kiva.org, where they learned how small loans can transform lives. Each student selected an individual entrepreneur from around the world and contributed a $25 loan to help support their efforts. To date, Buckley students have collectively loaned nearly $15,000 to over 150 individuals across 38 countries—a powerful testament to how small actions can spark big change.

In addition, our fifth graders partnered with first graders on the Nifty Notes project, stamping more than 1,200 notecards and hand-drawing characters on 500 of them. These cards will be sold next week to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Our fifth graders served as outstanding mentors—helping their younger peers craft slogans, design posters, and learn what it means to be changemakers.

This project exemplifies Buckley’s commitment to student agency and empowerment that mirrors real life. It shows young learners how they can be a voice for change, and we look forward to seeing how they apply their learning outside the classroom one day. 

At the Expo, the fifth graders will also be selling their own sets of thank-you cards, with all proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House. The class of 2028 is thrilled to support this important charity with their first grade social entrepreneurship partners. Don’t miss this celebration of compassion, creativity, and community.

We hope to see you there—Wednesday, June 4, at 10:30 AM in the library—and stay tuned for photos afterward!