ClassE is where we grow entrepreneurs and nurture success. Read about what we have been learning.

Happy Labor's Day Weekend!
This week we took an entrepreneurial and introvert/extrovert assessment. 

We continued to learn about our personal abilities and thinking styles while enjoying our first tour off property. A history of regional entrepreneurs and discussion of our group business ideas rounded out the week.

Monday, Sept. 4th - Labor Day - No School

Tuesday, Sept. 5th - Group Business Goals & Learning Canvas
with Sue Nugent of Lake Land College (Computer Room)

Wednesday, Sept. 6th - How to Decide the Feasibility of an Idea

Thursday, Sept. 7th - Feasibility Research and Group Business Discussion

Friday, Sept. 8th - ClassE Contract and Information about a 5K Run
with Craig Cunningham of Wells Fargo Advisors 
and Beth Gillespie, EIU

Location:  Lifespan Center (unless noted above), 11021 E. Cty. Rd. 800 N., Charleston (Loxa Road - northeast of SBLHS) Class is open and everyone is welcome.
How to Communicate with True Colors

Susan Hanfland facilitated Day 2 of the Colors training and expanded on how students can identify a person's color by their use of words and what they value. We explored our palest color and discussed how to communicate to those with different views.
Tour of Adams Memorials

Wendall and Carol Adams opened their doors and talked to us about the start of their monument business, other business opportunities they have identified over the years (such as countertop production) and the day-to-day challenges in managing 14 locations in the region. Wendall is continually looking to: improve their processes, keep the employees safe and identify the changing needs of their customers. Some of Wendall's advise was to "make no excuses, just get the job done" and "pay the banker first" so you will be able to borrow money when you need it. 

The Entrepreneurial History of the Region


Bill Lair, former editor for the Journal Gazette-Times Courier, shared storied on the history of Coles County and local successful entrepreneurs. From Charles Morton to Jimmy John Liataud, Coles County has had its share of great beginnings. The first dishwasher was invented by a women in Shelbyville and the Heath Candy Bar in Robinson became a nationwide candy because they were distributed in WWII rations to American soldiers. The history makes us all want to think big!


Exploring the Business Ideas 

The students discussed their ideas on how to raise their start-up money. Then, they voted for their top 3 choices and now we will focus on the top six ideas. Students are to do some research over the weekend to see how feasible the idea will be. This means checking out the competition, estimating the profit they can make and exploring obstacles such as licensing, legality, etc.

We are so thankful for the generosity of the Coles County businesses that sponsor ClassE. For a complete listing and more information about these businesses, please click below.  We also appreciate the that the Lifespan Center serves as our home base throughout the year. We hope you support them as they support us!


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Investors 
ClassE | 217-549-2564 | j[email protected] | www.keepitclasse.org
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