In a week, students will head to the all-purpose room with money in hand for the annual TREP$ Marketplace. TREP$ is an event where fifth graders create their own businesses and sell products they have made to students, families, and staff. Last year, students sold mini bow-and-arrow sets, drawings, keychains, slime, and more. Emma Tuazon is a fifth grader who is participating in TREP$.
“I am making magnets for your fridge and for classrooms, lockers, etc.” Tuazon said. “I am making 72 of them and they are $2 each.”
Tuazon said her product choice is good because it’s unique. Another fifth-grade entrepreneur is Riya Shah.
“For TREP$, I am making mystery bags with little goodies inside of them like bracelets, stickers, etc.” Shah explained. “The money I will be charging for each of my products is $3, and I am making like 15 to 20 mystery bags.”
Shah said her product choice is good because some kids like mysteries. Mrs. Breanne DeCarlo is a fifth-grade teacher who helps run TREP$ with fellow fifth-grade teacher, Kate Gallucci.
“Villano’s young entrepreneurs are creative and determined; watching their businesses come together is a lot of fun!” DeCarlo said. “I am very excited for TREP$ this year! In the days leading up to the event, the students will be buzzing, and there’s nothing like the energy of the Marketplace when the doors open, families stream in, and fourth and sixth graders arrive, ready to spend!”
Fifth-grade students say they’re working hard to create products they hope people will enjoy. Many say they’re confident in their businesses and excited to share their ideas with the school community. The TREP$ Marketplace takes place on June 16, 2026, in the all-purpose room.
