Writing Assignment Leads to Surprise Classroom Visit from Paris Baguette CEO

On January 8, students in Mary Greene’s Writing Studio class experienced an unforgettable lesson when Darren Tipton, CEO of Paris Baguette, visited their classroom, bringing both insight and the famous mochi donuts that inspired the moment.

As part of a recent writing unit, the sixth grade students were asked to compose letters to people or organizations they genuinely appreciate, explaining why those individuals or companies make a difference in their lives.

“If they chose a company, students were asked to research the company's vision and mission as well as the ways they gave back to communities. During the writing process, students focused on elaboration, clarity, sentence structure, and the use of specific details to clearly communicate reasons and ideas,” said Ms. Greene.

Student Grayson Chiu chose to write to Paris Baguette, a bakery he enjoys visiting.

“I am writing to appreciate Paris Baguette’s hard work and dedication to making delicious treats and foods,” Grayson wrote. “I also love all of the mochi doughnuts that you provide. I love tearing off each little ball. The dough tastes like a chewy piece of real sweet mochi. I’m curious how you make it all so perfect every time where the dough is perfectly in between being gooey and being chewy. Your bakers make the best consistency.”

Through his research, Grayson discovered Paris Baguette’s partnership with Earthday.org’s Canopy Project and its efforts to help prevent deforestation. The connection was especially meaningful, as the class had just finished reading an ELA novel focused on the impact of deforestation.
In his letter, Grayson shared, “What I most admire about your company is something other big brands don’t often do. You have partnered with Earthday.org’s Canopy Project. I love the idea that big brands help rebuild trees and rebuild areas suffering from deforestation.”

Grayson’s thoughtful letter caught the attention of the company. Shortly after it was received, Carmelina Seyfert, Executive Assistant to CEO Darren Tipton, reached out to share that the letter truly stood out. The company decided to do something special by visiting the class in person.

“The letter was genuinely touching. His vivid descriptions and heartfelt passion for our brand and products such as our Mochi Donut truly stood out. The way he articulated every detail made it clear that this message would deeply resonate with Darren,” said Ms. Seyfert.

During the visit, students asked insightful questions such as what it’s like to be the CEO of a company and if he gets to taste test all the food.

Mr. Tipton enthusiastically replied “of course I do, we have a tasting and test kitchen in our main office. They are creating products, new breads, new pastries, new cakes, new sandwiches, new salads and I’m always tasting it all along with the team.”

The experience gave students a rare opportunity to engage authentically with a leader of a well-known global brand. Mr. Tipton shared that really enjoys connecting with people through his role as CEO. His visit reinforced Paris Baguette’s mission to build relationships and bring joy through its products, and showed students firsthand that their words of appreciation can have a real and lasting impact.

Paris Baguette’s visit also reflected the company’s broader commitment to giving back. The brand partners with City Harvest, donating unsold products at the end of each day to help nourish community members in need. This year, Paris Baguette also joined forces with No Kid Hungry, launching a national campaign to help ensure children across the country have access to the food they deserve.