From kitchen to campus

At Wheaton High School, cookies have become more than just a sweet treat. Several students are turning their baking skills into small businesses, selling homemade cookies while learning what it takes to run a business.

For Rashel Jeronimo ‘27, selling cookies started as an addition to her strawberry and chocolate-covered treat business. She originally made cake-box cookies but has started making them from scratch. “So they taste better,” she explains. Her cookies currently sell for $2 each, and she plans to put some of the money back into her business.

With multiple students starting cookie businesses, competition has begun to grow. However, Rashel isn't worried about it. “I’m not too worried about competition because I am the competition,” she gloats.

Eric Barrera ‘27 also started selling cookies because he enjoys baking and wanted to make some money. He began baking during the summer after his family encouraged him to make cookies for his friends. His cookies originally cost $1.50, but he eventually raised the price to $2.

But there are some contrasting points of view: William Campos ‘27 helps advertise his cookie business with Samantha by spreading the word to teachers and students. Instead of seeing other students as competition, he sees it as an opportunity for students to share their different baking skills.

For Lili Guerra Casa ‘27, baking has been a persistent passion. She first started baking around 2020 after her sister encouraged her to try it. After years of practicing and changing her recipes, she eventually turned this passion into a business. Her cookies currently range from $3 to $4 depending on the type and customization.

Lili hopes to continue to grow her business and eventually wants to open a coffee shop. She also changes the flavors depending on the season.

Although each student has a different reason for starting their business, they all share a love for baking and a common goal of turning something they enjoy into an opportunity. What started in kitchens at home is now making its way into classrooms and hallways at Wheaton.

Note: Students are not allowed to sell items on campus, but they can be found outside of school.