Coal City High School’s Transitions Class is brewing up something new as its student-run business, Creative Blends, is adding a playful twist to its menu with the introduction of dirty sodas.
A dirty soda starts with soda and ice. Flavored syrups are then added into the bubbly beverage and topped with cream. The new addition to the menu is starting to generate interest among staff members who enjoy the beverage service the students provide each weekday morning.
Creative Blends has been in operation for the past few years with an offering of hot and cold coffees and teas, and hot cocoa.
“We wanted to do something to upgrade Creative Blends beyond coffee,” said Instructor Sarah Bell, who noted the students have grown in the business and it was time to expand the menu and showcase their skill level with something new.
The concept of a dirty soda originated in Utah around 2010 with a Diet Coke enhanced with coconut syrup, fresh lime juice and cream. Since then the flavors of dirty sodas have expanded.
The students and staff at Creative Blends tested several flavors and ingredient ratios in the process of developing the menu.
“There were a lot of cups and a lot of drinks as we were trying to figure it all out,” Bell said.
After a few weeks of testing, the students settled on four beverages—Raspberry Cream, Orange Creamsicle, Peaches and Cream and Coconut Dr. Pepper.
Each of the students have their favorite flavor combinations. The baristas on duty last week shared their favorites. Hannah reports the Raspberry Cream is very good, Austin prefers the Orange Creamsicle and Lexi tends to favor the Coconut Dr. Pepper.
Coal City English instructor Traci Fritz is known to place an order for the Raspberry Cream. She said it's a special treat she enjoys every Monday and Friday. The rest of the week she enjoys her regular order—raspberry hot cocoa.
Since its establishment, Creative Blends has enjoyed a regular customer base and the students know their orders well and just where to find them when it comes to making the morning deliveries.
Hannah shared she has a route she takes when out on deliveries—the students deliver the orders of dirty sodas and coffees right to the teachers' classrooms. While out on the route, Hannah shared that being a part of the Creative Blends team is one of the best parts of her day.
Each person in the class is assigned a daily task, it could be processing the online orders, serving as the barista, delivering orders or serving as the accountant. The students are also responsible for budgeting, inventory, shopping and menu selection.
Next month, Creative Blends will be introducing a holiday line of dirty sodas that include one inspired by the Grinch. All dirty sodas are $3 and coffee, tea and cocoa remain just $1 a cup. Not only is it a good product at a good price, faculty and staff say the best part of Creative Blends is the students.
The skills students develop through the coffee business are skills the students will carry with them throughout life, and for some it has led to opportunities outside of school.