HOISINGTON —Making a business plan, estimating pricing and seeking funding are all challenges that any owner of a small business faces.

Five Hoisington High School students took steps to become entrepreneurs as a part of a new class at the school. After deciding on a business, they made a business plan and presented it to Hoisington’s E-Community board. The E-Community is a grant that Hoisington received to promote business in the community.

Each student received $200 to begin their own business.

"They each came up with their own ideas," said Jennifer Steinert, teacher. "They looked at pros and cons and demand."

The students will collect sales tax and keep records.

Participating in the class with the name of their business are Brandy Wondra -Brandy’s Candle Explosion, Grace Fox-Grace’s Beauty Essentials, Shelby Littrell- Shelby’s Crazy Chains, Baily Barnard-Aunt B’s Beverage Blanket and Jayme Bradley-Jayme’s Hair Accessories.

Wondra had never made candles before she started her business. "I’m excited," she said, " to experiment and figure out what to put in there." The wax, dye and oil scents were all chosen by Wondra.

She has learned if you have something you really want to do, do it. She has also learned how much it cost to start.

Just as in any business, the start-up hasn’t gone without a hitch. Barnard was going to make baby bottle koozies, but the material arrived unsewn. "We’re going to see if we can find some that is already sewn," said Barnard.

Principal of Hoisington High School Meg Wilson said, "Entrepreneurship is a practical application," of skills and leadership. The class teaches the five R’s - Rigor, Responsiveness, Relevance, Relationships and Results that have to be implemented intentionally, she said.

"We’re training teachers to come in and train their students to be leaders," Wilson said. "It’s a piece we’re hoping will fit in to engage students."

The students will also create a website.

"Our goal is just to make awareness (to students) of what is possible," said Steinert.