The Saline Middle School Sports Card Club, launched in the fall of the 2022-23 school year, quickly grew from five students to over 30 members within its first month. Thanks to the FSAS grant, the club was able to secure essential supplies that not only maintained its popularity but elevated it to the next level. Guest speakers from local card shops and online marketplaces enriched the experience, making the club a resounding success.
As a result, the program expanded to include two Sports Card Clubs held during different lunch periods at SMS. The club connected directly to academic subjects, including Mathematics (pricing and trading), Language Arts (public speaking and negotiation), and Social Studies (player/card/team locations). Conducted during school lunches, the club provided an expanded learning opportunity for all attendees.
Students developed real-world skills such as pricing, fair trading, making eye contact, and closing deals with a handshake. These lessons extended beyond the classroom, with students applying what they learned at local card shows and shops. This grant enabled a vibrant, educational, and practical experience for the students, fostering personal and academic growth.
