By ALISHA CALL, USD 470 – Arkansas City High School senior Hannah Schandorf didn’t just look for a summer job, she helped build one.
With the spark of an idea and the support of friends and family, Hannah and her friend Ella Duncan co-launched The Freezing Point, a rolled ice cream and snow cone stand that’s quickly become a go-to spot in town.
“I came up with the idea!” Hannah said. “I’d worked at two different stands over the past few years and really wanted to start my own. One day, I was talking to Ella about it, and her dad overheard and offered to help if we were serious.”
That moment kicked off months of planning—creating a menu, tracking supplies, securing permits, and fixing up a used trailer. With the help of Ella’s parents, the girls renovated the stand and made it their own.
“We contacted multiple sellers and settled on our current stand because it had most of what we needed,” said Tara Duncan, Ella’s mom. “The girls drafted their menu and kept track of supplies while I set up the LLC and worked with the city.”
Now open seven days a week, The Freezing Point runs with a two-person crew each shift and serves up signature treats like the 32 Degree, a snow cone topped with coconut, wedding cake, and silver fox flavors, plus a scoop of ice cream and coconut cream. Their strawberry cheesecake rolled ice cream is also a fan favorite.
“People have told us they love how soft our ice is,” Hannah said. “And they’re excited that rolled ice cream is back in town.”
Hannah and Ella split the responsibilities of running the stand. “I’m in charge of making the schedule and doing the grocery shopping,” Hannah said. “Ella takes care of the money and online orders. We take turns with cleanup, too.”
There have been a few bumps along the way—permit delays, long prep days, and a big learning curve—but the two agree it’s been worth it. “There were a lot of trials and errors,” Ella said. “But we’ve learned so much.”
Along with running The Freezing Point, Hannah also stays active with Purple Paws Dance, Ark City Dance, ACHS band, and another part-time job. “It helps that I make the schedule myself,” she said with a laugh.
She’s also grateful for the help behind the scenes. “I’m thankful for Ella and for our moms, Tara Duncan and Tiffany Schandorf, who help when we need it.”
The Duncans plan to keep the business going beyond high school. “After Ella graduates, we’ll pass the manager role to her younger brother Grady,” Tara said. “Eventually, it’ll go to Lane, the youngest.”
For Hannah, the experience has been more than just a job, it’s been a glimpse into the future.
The daily responsibilities of managing a stand, serving customers, promoting their brand, and problem-solving in real time have given both girls valuable insight into collaboration, leadership, and communication. From customer service to marketing and time management, they’re gaining real-world experience and career-ready skills that will benefit them well beyond the summer.
Hannah’s advice to others?
“Anything is possible,” Hannah said. “It may take time, so don’t waste a minute. In the end, it will all be worth it.”
