For those in Freshman Focus or in a special elective in the 700 building, you may notice the silver window when you walk by, or the sign for “The Armory.” What exactly is the Armory? It’s essentially a school supply store within the school, and the prices that are offered cannot be beaten. Not even by Wal-Mart. A pencil is only a quarter, and 75 cents for a mechanical. You can also buy lead for your mechanical pencils. Pencil-top erasers are only a dime, and they also have a ton of other useful supplies that definitely come in handy during the school day.
     Aside from pencils and school supplies, you can also purchase “school appropriate” snacks like Pop-Tarts, Fruit Roll-ups, and Oreos. Yes, these same items are offered at snack bar for the same prices, but when you want to beat the snack bar line, you can stop by the Armory. Also, an Armory exclusive is Arizona Iced Tea in multiple flavors. The store also offers some school apparel like Higley High t-shirts, hats, and headbands. Mrs. Dorer, who runs the Armory, was able to sit down for a few questions. Brandyn Johnson: “What made you decide to open up this store?” Mrs. Dorer: “It is a part of our curriculum for students to learn marketing and retail.” BJ: “What is the schedule for the Armory?” MD: “Everyday from 7:20 to 7:40 and during both lunches.” BJ: Do you feel as though it really helps the students to learn business and/or finance? MD: “I do. They learn retail job skills and pricing, teamwork, and marketing.” BJ: Exactly how long has the Armory been open? MD: “We opened the Thursday before Spring Break, but we plan to have an ‘official’ grand opening before the end of the year or beginning of next year. We also plan to have a website sometime next year.” BJ: Can I ask where the money you profit goes? MD: “The money goes into the DECA student activities account to help pay for conferences and competitions.”

     A couple of students who work for The Armory commented on their experience working there. Senior, Patrick Traynor says, “I think it is a very intriguing experience.” Phong Nguyen describes it as a cool way to get “some experience for the future.” So if you’re looking for a place to find reasonable school supplies and snacks, The Armory is definitely where you want to go. Lost your pencil? Want an Iced Tea? Now you know where to go.