Program Benefits

Students

Ø      Interdisciplinary hands-on learning and application of social studies, language arts, mathematics, economics, and technology

Ø      Increased achievement scores on standardized tests

Ø      First-hand experiences in economics & entrepreneurism that will help them comprehend our free enterprise system and their roles, responsibilities, and opportunities within it

Ø      Enhancement of real-time critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Ø      Excellent self-esteem building opportunity

Ø      Reinforcement of the importance of social skills and diversity in the workplace

Ø      Chance to actually BE business owners, employees, and elected officials in a “real” economy as part of a life-like Town

Ø      Understanding of what it takes to create a business, meet payroll, work to meet customer needs & expectations, pay a bank loan, and pay taxes that support public services

Teachers/Administrators

Ø      Easily-integrated curriculum that correlates to State Standards for social studies, language arts, math, and economics

Ø      Program that includes curriculum, training, materials, the JA BizTown Visit, and support of Junior Achievement staff

Ø      A means to increase student achievement, motivation, preparation, and enthusiasm.

Ø      Visible application of powerful learning strategies and technologies in and out of the classroom

Ø      Multiple options for grading and assessment

Ø      Method of demonstrating connectivity and interaction of subject areas in real-life

Ø      Way to expand student horizons and reach non-traditional learners through experiential and collaborative learning

Ø      Chance to engage students in opportunities to apply their knowledge in hands-on activities and encourage them to make choices that result in meaningful and immediate results

Ø      Opportunity to leverage interest and support from parents and the community

Parents/Volunteers

Ø      Meaningful opportunity to experience exciting, fun, and active learning with children

Ø      Chance to share career and workday experiences by guiding students through real-life business and personal decisions as they take on the dual roles of producers and consumers.

Ø      Way to assist students in learning about personal responsibility, money management, teamwork, and citizenship

Ø      Means to communicate values and discuss the opportunities & consequences that may result from career, financial, and personal decisions