MusBuyTangs, the student-run business based in Mineola High School, is back. Its mission is to digitally design and manufacture unique and creative products for the community, made by students and sold by students.  Launching year two with new products like iPad and phone stands, as well as the return of some best sellers like mugs, coasters, T-shirts, socks, and smartphone wallets and popsockets. MusBuyTangs is managed by students in the Entrepreneurship class and the Business Club.

The young entrepreneurs work with a team of teachers and students in the fabrication lab (Fab Lab) to produce popular products using laser, CNC router and dye sublimation equipment. Designs are created by students, using software such as Adobe Illustrator, and then transferred to reclaimed woods, textiles and ceramics, becoming sellable products for the community. Junior Leandra Saavedra said,  “I took this class to see if business is something I may want to do in my future.”

This school year brings a new partnership with Real World Scholars, a non-profit organization working to reimagine K-12 education through entrepreneurship. MusBuyTangs will have a website in their EdCorp marketplace, which is designed to showcase products online created by young entrepreneurs. The marketplace highlights the work of students and educators who have built and run EdCorps (web-based student-run businesses) in schools around the country. Currently, more than 200 companies are being run by 8,000 students in 33 states. Ms. Bonnie Greene, Mineola High School Business Teacher and Business Club Advisor, applied for a Real World Scholar’s grant last spring and received  both the reward and an Edcorp toolkit of mentors, technology, and resources needed to grow the business. “I am beyond excited to connect my students with the opportunities Real World Scholars is providing especially access to a community of other school businesses like ours,” Ms. Greene said.

MusBuyTangs’ student associates have ownership over the entrepreneurial process. All profits belong to the them and are commonly used to re-invest in their company and/or support the local and global community. MusBuyTangs is currently in discussion about a cause they will support this year.

Their new product line is still in the early phases, but bestsellers will be available on their website by November. Meanwhile the public can follow MusBuyTangs on twitter and instagram @musbuytangs.