SBL Concessions is a student-run business at Sergeant Bluff–Luton High School that operates as part of the Warrior Enterprise program. The business is led by students Jack Zeleny, Kennik Buschmann, Brody Buss, Elijah Hoskins, Andy Kolar, Crew Christensen, and Braydan Huffman, with guidance from their teacher, Ashley Hansen. Together, they run concession stands for football, basketball, volleyball, track, and soccer events.
Students involved in SBL Concessions are responsible for nearly every part of the business. They decide what items to sell, create specials, manage money, and help run the stands during games. Over time, the group has made tens of thousands of dollars, which has gone back into improving the concession stands and supporting the school. As one student shared, “It’s cool knowing the money we make actually goes back into the school and helps improve things for everyone.”
The business provides food and drinks to students, families, and community members attending school sporting events. SBL Concessions sells snacks, candy, meals, and beverages, along with popular specials like Chick-fil-A at basketball games and Kwik Star donuts during football games. The business currently operates out of two main locations: the football field concession stand and the concession area in the 3–5 building.
Running SBL Concessions has helped students build real-life skills that go beyond the classroom. Students learn leadership, teamwork, marketing, accounting, and time management while operating in specific roles such as manager, assistant manager, head of finance, marketing specialist, and quality control. One student explained, “You actually feel like you’re running a real business. Everyone has a role, and if you don’t do your part, it affects the whole group.”
In addition to making money, SBL Concessions plays a big role in supporting school spirit. By selling food and drinks at games, the business helps keep fans energized and engaged throughout events. “When people have food and drinks, they stay longer and enjoy the game more,” one student said. “That helps create a better atmosphere for our teams.”
Looking ahead, the goal for the rest of the school year is to continue raising money for the school while making the concession stand faster, better organized, and more enjoyable for customers. In addition to continuing operations at current events, students plan to expand concession services to the new tennis courts and baseball and softball fields during the spring and summer seasons. Upcoming events include basketball games through February, followed by track, soccer, tennis, baseball, and softball in the spring and summer. The students involved appreciate the continued support from the SBL community and are excited to keep improving the business.
This article was written collaboratively by the students of SBL Concessions as part of the Warrior Enterprise program, taught by Ashley Hansen. Through this experience, students are not only learning how to run a business, but also how to lead, problem-solve, and contribute positively to their school and community.