Todd School Store: The Book Bag

The Bookbag originally began in 1997 as a used bookstore made possible through a school-to-work grant funded by BOCES. Over the years The Bookbag has evolved into its current business – a school supply and snack center. Mrs. Heidi Espinoza, a sixth grade teacher, designed the project to be used as a tool to teach students crucial math and language arts skills. Students learn not only the math and language skills important in running a business but they also learn vital work place skills that will last them a lifetime. Students have the opportunity to work as accountants, sales people, publicists, and stock and ordering personnel. Students are even chosen through an application process to fill the manager positions in each of the above named positions.

The Bookbag provides the students at Todd with reasonably priced school supplies and snacks at a convenient location. The profit goes to help the store continue its growth, to fund school activities, and to contribute to charitable organizations. Each year the students select a charity to donate to. Monies were given to the following charities over the years: Dutchess Outreach, Dutchess County SPCA, Roberto Morelli Medical Trust, The American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 7:30 – 7:45 a.m. and 2:25 – 2:35 p.m.