Falls Fan Gear was founded in July 2017 by Business Teachers Jill Hughes and Michelle Oliver, who originally planned to open the school store in the Falls Plaza. When that proved too expensive, they transformed an unused science classroom at Menomonee Falls High School into a fully functioning retail space. Since then, Falls Fan Gear has become a hands-on learning laboratory for students, operated today by Sara Sturm and the Business Capstone Class of 2026. The store is managed by students in the Business Academy. Sturm also selects three students to help manage the store. As part of the Business Capstone class, students are organized into four key departments: Accounting, HR Management, Marketing, and Merchandising. Each department plays a vital role in ensuring the store runs efficiently and professionally. Accounting handles the finances, HR Management oversees staff coordination, Marketing promotes the store and engages the community, and Merchandising manages inventory, displays, and product selection. Through this structure, students gain real-world business experience, learning teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills while supporting school spirit and providing high-quality merchandise to the Menomonee Falls community. Falls Fan Gear is more than a store, it is a unique educational experience that empowers students, fosters leadership, and strengthens connections across the school and community.