Junior Achievement of Central Maryland Inc. (JA), a non-profit organization dedicated to educating young people to succeed in a rapidly changing economy, hosted the inaugural JA in a Day program in Harford County to teach students the importance of earning, spending and saving.
On Friday January 19th, parents and community volunteers presented a series of JA lessons to all 3rd-5th graders at Homestead Wakefield Elementary School. The curriculum covered the basics of personal finance, work readiness and entrepreneurship.
“Our JA in a Day program is so important to us. It’s a great way to connect students and parents to the business community,” said Jennifer Bodensiek, CEO and President of JA of Central Maryland. “We believe teaching students these lessons are critical at an early age, which is why we have expanded the program to more schools.”
JA in a Day focuses on the development of real-world skills to manage finances and be successful in the workplace of the future. The first JA in a Day in Harford County will help pave the way for the future success of these young people.
“JA encourages creative thinking. I loved seeing the kids thinking outside of the box!” said Chuck Luttrell, a JA volunteer.
“Junior Achievement is a powerful and meaningful program for all involved,” added Samantha Cairo, Homestead Wakefield Elementary Teacher. “It brings life skills into the classroom taught by professionals, parents, and community leaders. The students loved all of the activities and truly took away such valuable understandings. As a teacher I would encourage all schools to participate."
Schools across Central Maryland area host JA in a Day programs annually. Each year, JA volunteers and parents will work together to teach each grade a different curriculum regarding workplace expectations, college readiness, and personal finance.
“I loved having my mom in my class teaching me about the business world. We talk at home, but we don’t talk about business and how to be an entrepreneur. This is the best day ever!” said a fourth grade JA in a Day student.
About Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
Junior Achievement of Central Maryland is part of the world’s largest organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. Through a dedicated volunteer network, JACMD provides hands-on programs that show more than 46,000 K-12 students each year the realities of how careers, money and business ownership work. JA experiences are proven to give students the edge in college completion, career readiness, earning potential, and business start-up. For more information, visit www.jamaryland.org.
