PORT TOWNSEND — About 20 Port Townsend High School students are learning how to operate a business by running a coffee stand that provides their classmates with a shot of morning java.
“This is a valuable skill. The coffee business is booming,” said instructor Tanya Rublaitus.
“Businesses want people who can pull a really good shot — not just a shot but a really good shot.”
Running the stand at the high school at 1500 Van Ness St. is part of the curriculum for Rublaitus’ hospitality and tourism class, which plugs into nationally based Future Business Leaders of America activities.
The coffee stand, titled Java 101, is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. Mondays through Fridays as well as Thursdays and Fridays during nutrition break and block lunches.
Beverages served include lattes, chai tea, apple cider, herbal teas, blended frappuccinos and Italian sodas.
Each student works two half-hour shifts a week. Proceeds go to regional, state and national FBLA competition travel expenses.
All the drinks cost $3 and are served in 16-ounce cups — a deal compared with many businesses outside the school.
Here, the kids learn about profit and profit margin.
The cost of a latte is made up of espresso and milk at 31 cents each, and the cup, sleeve and lid for 8 cents.
As a result, a 74-cent cost per each $3 drink provides a profit of $2.26.
Rublaitus said the lack of overhead rent, electricity and payroll allows the stand to sell drinks less expensively than a commercial coffee stand.
Still, the stand posts a chart that compares its prices with five local coffee sources.
Aside from learning how to run the coffee machine, Rublaitus teaches “soft skills” such as showing up on time, taking pride in your work, being a good team player and developing good communications skills.
She expects the stand will be a fundraising tool that supports programs and activities, such as a field trip to Portland, Ore., where students can see demonstrations of top-flight hospitality in action through staying in good hotels and eating in top restaurants.
“I’m hoping we can tie these concepts all together and turn it into a nice experience,” she said.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
