At Action Day Middle School, we don’t just prepare students for high school—we empower them to think beyond it. This year, our new Entrepreneurship Class is already lighting a fire in our students to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and believe in the power of their ideas.
After a recent talk with our middle schoolers about my own entrepreneurial journey—from growing up with immigrant parents to leading Action Day Schools and founding West Valley Dance Company—I was blown away by the response. One student in particular, Dennis Jamali, not only took the message to heart but acted on it.
Within 24 hours, Dennis sent me a thoughtful email outlining his idea for a product called Snackscape Munchers—a lunchbox with a built-in table designed especially for kids who, like him, often prefer sitting on the floor during lunch. His goal? To make “The Lunch Experience” more fun, practical, and comfortable for students.
What followed was a series of emails filled with sketches, naming ideas, and questions about materials, prototyping, and product development. Dennis didn’t wait to be older or more experienced—he leaned into his curiosity and creativity, asked for help, and began to build.
This is exactly the type of initiative we want to cultivate through our Entrepreneurship Program. It’s about more than starting a business—it’s about critical thinking, confidence, and the belief that you’re never too young to bring your ideas to life.
Dennis is just one example of the kind of innovation brewing in our classrooms. As the program continues, students will be guided through the full process of launching a business—from ideation and branding to marketing and pitching. Along the way, they’ll learn lessons in resilience, leadership, and real-world problem-solving.
At Action Day, we believe our students are capable of greatness right now—not “someday.” Dennis proved that. And we can’t wait to see what other bold ideas are born in this space.
To Dennis, and to every student brave enough to share an idea—we’re listening, we’re cheering you on, and we’re here to help you build it.
Stay tuned. The next big thing might just be coming out of Action Day Middle School.
