High school seniors at Tindley High School have to complete a capstone project before they graduate. Senior Morgan Wright held an art exhibit called “The Culture on 10th Street” on Saturday, April 16. The event featured student artists, photographers, and entrepreneurs. I attended this event with my sons because I believed it would make an impact.

One of my sons is an artist. He draws every single day. He has a room full of art journals and art supplies, and it was important to me that he could see other Black students with the same love of art. One of the first observations my sons made was that many of the pieces of art had the word sold on them. I used that as an opportunity to talk to my sons about entrepreneurship. Wright, the organizer of the event, has her own photography business, Royalty Photography. I wanted my sons to know they did not have to be an adult to become an entrepreneur and business owner.

There is nothing wrong with preparing all students for college, and I believe that we should. However, we should also ensure students know what all their options are. Enlisting in the military, attending a trade school, or starting a business are all valid paths after high school graduation. Students need exposure to these paths just like they get exposure to college.

At the art exhibit, my son James was able to talk to student artists about their artwork, what techniques they use, and which programs they use. He has recently started using Procreate, and he was able to talk to a high school student who creates art using that program. The student also provided him with a few tips to encourage him with his artwork.

Although I do believe it is my responsibility to expose my children to opportunities that interest them, I also believe it is the school’s responsibility, too. A few weeks ago, I was able to participate in a career day at an elementary school. Even though I did talk about my path to becoming a teacher, I also talked about being an entrepreneur.

I told the students to become an entrepreneur they had to offer a solution to a problem that exists. Then, I walked them through that process. After hearing this information, they had the opportunity to ask me questions. I believe that was the most important part.

Yes, I know there is not enough time in the school day, but even if it is one event such as a career day, schools should expose students to entrepreneurship. In classrooms right now, there are future business owners, and we need them to know their dreams and aspirations are valid.