Students helped to determine the need for the entity when they were looking to have a way to socialize with a cup of joe. CTE director, Mrs. Lesley Riddle says that they have been able to find a happy compromise that offers students “coffee beverages,” the most popular of which contain more milk and flavoring than caffeine, as well as other items that pack a nutritional punch while keeping them on campus and on time for classes. “Prices are very reasonable, and profits go toward replenishing supplies and equipment,” says Mrs. Riddle.
Coffee shop students are actively engaged in designing, organizing, and managing the day-to-day operations of the enterprise, with support from school personnel. Overton County’s CTE teachers know the importance of preparing students for postschool employment. “When students with varying abilities and interests receive hands-on experience during high school, they are more likely to have improved employment outcomes after school,” says principal, Richard Melton. Each student works diligently to provide a quality product that their customers deserve. He states that Livingston Academy is fortunate to have strong community partnerships with Wired Coffee and Livingston Dairy Queen.