Blue Bear Cafe

A student-operated coffee shop has been a dream of Polly Long's for years. In 2019, it became a reality when the Blue Bear Cafe (BBC) was established with the help of Mount Airy High School's exceptional children's teacher Tanya Davis and Principal Jason Dorsett. 

 

With an inviting space located in the school's media center, the Bear Blue Cafe had a place front and center for all to see and soon enjoy. With recipes being selected, tested, and approved, students and staff began putting together the many pieces needed and wanted to make the space a hangout for high school students and staff alike. 

 

With orders coming in, showcasing the awesome support of Mount Airy High School teachers, staff, and students, the confidence of student employees and skills increased. They started with taking, completing, and delivering orders across campus. Staff members began holding meetings in the BBC and staff members across the district began getting introduced to the newly created hidden gem in the district.

 

As of January 2021, the coffee shop has grown into a colorful hangout where individuals can order cider, hot chocolate, coffees, teas, and smoothies along with the latest treat. In addition to food and beverages, local entrepreneurs can sell their handcrafted items.

 

In November of 2020, the district treated each staff member to a beverage from the Blue Bear Cafe and students were able to make deliveries across the five campuses. Through the guidance of Tanya Davis, Polly Long, and Jennifer Gentry, students continue to grow the coffee shop. With success under their belts, they are ready to take their work to the next level and offer drive-thru for the community. If you are interested in ordering for the drive-thru, please see the detailed information below.

 

As of March of 2022, the Blue Bear Cafe is being led by Jennifer Gentry and has added many sweet treats, including bundt cakes and chocolate chip cookies, to its menus. Local businesses and service clubs have enjoyed offerings from this ever-growing menu.