, Author at Junior Achievement of South Florida

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Empowering the Future: The Imperative of Financial Literacy Education

In the wake of economic instability, intensified by factors like inflation, global unrest, and market volatility, one glaring reality continues to remain: the critical importance of financial literacy. During challenging times, it becomes extremely apparent that empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to make sound financial decisions is not just a benefit but a necessity for economic resilience.

April, designated as Financial Literacy Month, shines a light on the importance of financial education. It provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the state of financial education and to advocate for greater awareness and action around this issue.

Statistics highlight the urgency of addressing the financial literacy gap. According to a study by the National Financial Educators Council, 63% of Americans are unable to answer basic financial literacy questions correctly. Statistics also show 53% of Americans say they were never taught how to handle money growing up.

In 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate bill 1054 requiring students who enter high school beginning in the 2023 – 24 school year to take a ½ credit financial literacy course to graduate. While this is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, it’s important to recognize that it’s not enough. Financial literacy should be a fundamental component of every student’s learning journey, starting at an early age and continuing through their academic career.

Meet Emily, a young woman who experienced the transformative power of financial literacy education in 8th grade. Emily participated in the Junior Achievement Finance Park program in 2009, the year the JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion opened. Due to a unique partnership agreement between Junior Achievement of South Florida and Broward County Public Schools, every 8th grade student participates in a program that combines engaging classroom lessons with a fast-paced real-life simulation at JA World. The agreement also requires that every 5th grade student participate in the JA BizTown program.

The lessons Emily learned provided a foundation which proved to be invaluable as she entered adulthood. Unlike some of her friends who found themselves in difficult financial situations, Emily turned down high interest rate credit cards offered to her throughout her college years; she created a budget to help her to spend only what she could afford; and when she secured a part-time job, she “paid herself first”, a lesson about saving she remembers most.

Emily’s story is a powerful testament to the importance of financial literacy education and its ability to change lives. By equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed, positive financial decisions, we can empower them to avoid financial adversity.

Partnerships between schools, individuals, government agencies, businesses, non-profits and financial institutions are essential to enhancing this education. As one of our three core pillars, Junior Achievement of South Florida embeds financial literacy in all of its programs, including our high school workforce training and education programs like Stock Market Challenge, Career Bound Workforce Training and Employment Program and Pre-Apprenticeships, so students understand how to manage, save and invest their earnings once they begin their careers. We partner with hundreds of individual and corporate volunteers and sponsors who get involved in making financial literacy education relevant and impactful.

I hear parents say everyday how they wish their children understood the basics of money management. As a parent myself, and as the CEO of one of the largest non-profit organizations dedicated to financial literacy, workforce education and entrepreneurship, I encourage parents to get involved in promoting, advocating and volunteering in financial literacy education.

I encourage Governor DeSantis, state legislators, and local officials to not only mandate that this education is included in education, but to provide funding for programs that teach these skills and prepare our youth.

I encourage businesses to provide opportunities for their employees to mentor students and support and sponsor programs that will help our youth manage their money so they can be responsible consumers of your products and services.

Together let’s make financial literacy education a priority and empower the next generation to thrive in the future!

Laurie Sallarulo, CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida

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Celebrating Women’s Empowerment: Strength, Resilience and Impact

March 2024 Message from Chair Andrew Koenig and CEO Laurie Sallarulo

As we closeout Women’s History Month, we’re honored to spotlight the remarkable achievements of the women within our Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) family. At JA, we’re deeply committed to empowering women to shape a brighter future for generations to come.

Our JA Circle of Wise Women, a group of over 200 passionate leaders, has been instrumental in raising nearly $6 million to support our mission. Their dedication ensures that we can continue providing essential programs that equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

We also celebrate our passionate staff! Thanks to their leadership, our annual Girls Rule event empowered 300 high school girls to dream big and pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Additionally, our Women in Trades Summit, part of the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, offered invaluable opportunities for young women to explore non-traditional career paths.

Women exemplify strength and resilience, overcoming obstacles with unwavering determination. Their journey inspires us to champion women’s empowerment in all aspects of life, creating a world where every woman is celebrated for her unique talents and contributions.

To our staff, the Circle of Wise Women, volunteers and all inspiring young ladies, thank you for your unwavering commitment to education and empowerment. Your strength, authenticity and belief in the power of education are making a difference in the lives of countless young people.

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Buy! Sell! JA Stock Market Challenge Returns

Broward County High School Students Compete in JA Stock Market Challenge

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (Jan. 31, 2024) — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is gearing up for the return of its highly anticipated Stock Market Challenge, presented by Fifth Third Bank, taking place from February 28th to March 1st, 2024, at the JA World Huizenga Center, Lillian S. Wells Pavilion. The event features a Stakeholder Showcase on February 29^th, which brings together community leaders, elected officials and the School District of Broward County Board Members.

This year’s Stock Market Challenge is set to be the largest yet, with 20 schools and approximately 1,800 students participating in a simulated stock market environment — a fast-paced educational experience that is exciting and filled with energy!

EVENT ITINERARY

February 28 – Two sessions from 8:30 AM-10:30 AM and 11:00 AM-1:15 PM

February 29 – Stakeholder Showcase is 8:30 AM-10:00 AM
Two sessions from 8:30 AM-10:30 AM and 11:00 AM-1:15 PM

March 1 – Two sessions from 8:30 AM-10:30 AM and 11:00 AM-1:15 PM

Students participate in classroom lessons learning about investments like stocks, diversification and the risks, as well as a simulation. During the challenge, student teams compete against each other with $500,000 in imitation currency, making initial stock selections from more than 25 fictitious companies. The team with the stock portfolio boasting the highest net worth at the end of the challenge emerges victorious. The top three overall high school teams also have an opportunity to compete at the national level.

Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of JA, emphasized, “The key to triumph in this challenge unfolds as students harness the power of collaboration within their teams, coupled with a profound grasp of the financial impact that real-world circumstances have on the stock market. Stock Market Challenge is just a glimpse into the myriad of programs JA delivers, igniting the passion within our youth.”

This year’s Stock Market Challenge is proudly sponsored by Presenting Sponsor Fifth Third Bank, as well as Broward Sheriff’s Office and Coastal Wealth Community Impact Foundation. JA extends special thanks to its over 5,100 community volunteers for mentoring youth in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and workforce readiness programs, impacting 80,000 students annually.

Julio Ramirez, Market President, Fifth Third Bank, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “As the Presenting Sponsor of the JA Stock Market Challenge, we’re honored to participate in the program and share in the enthusiasm the high school students of Broward County will experience during this impactful initiative.”

Watch highlights from the 2023 event – CLICK HERE. JA Stock Market Challenge photos are available upon request.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 7,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 80,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

About Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association, is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank, and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com.

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Charting a Course for Success

Disney Cruise Line Hosts Career Panel For Broward County High School Students

Junior Achievement students gained valuable insights into cruise industry with in-depth panel discussion

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (Jan. 31, 2024) — Dozens of local students took a trip outside of the classroom today to Broward County’s Port Everglades to meet with Disney Cruise Line crew members and learn about careers in the maritime industry.

While the Disney Dream was docked at the port, Disney Cruise Line partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida to host an interactive career panel for students participating in JA Career Bound, a program designed to help students build work-readiness skills and gain knowledge of local industries. Students spoke to several Disney Cruise Line crew members and officers who work aboard the ship, in a range of areas, including human resources, guest services, and entertainment. Crew Members shared details with students about their roles, life at sea and tips for pursuing a maritime career.

One of the panelists, Gabe Biser, human resources manager aboard the Disney Dream, is also a former Junior Achievement student. He said he appreciated his mentors in the program who encouraged him to learn about different career paths. “Being part of the cruise industry has been an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the mentors who guided me along my career journey,” said Biser. “It’s an honor to share my experiences with these students, and I hope to inspire them to explore industries they may not be familiar with.”

Following the career panel, students explored Port Everglades, touring unique spaces, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at port and terminal operations. “We appreciated the opportunity to showcase our port’s diverse operations, including cargo, as part of the wealth of maritime careers available to our youth,” said Glenn Wiltshire, Acting Director of Port Everglades.

“I joined the Junior Achievement Career Bound program because I want to learn about how to advance in a professional work environment to pursue my dream jobs,” said Tyler Hilaire, a senior student at McArthur High School and a Junior Achievement Career Bound Ambassador. “I learned today from Disney Cruise Line that there are so many interesting careers in this industry.”

This initiative is part of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to creating lasting, positive impact in its port communities by investing in youth education initiatives that provide awareness, access, and hands-on learning opportunities. Most recently, Disney Cruise Line announced new community investments with Junior Achievement South Florida in celebration of its arrival into Broward County and the grand opening of its dedicated cruise terminal this past November. Disney’s donation supports the Junior Achievement Career Bound and Pre-Apprenticeship programs, including a special marine service technician track that educates students about the maritime industry, marine basics, and engine fundamentals.

“We’re grateful for Disney Cruise Line’s ongoing support,” said Laurie Sallarulo, president & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA). “These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce by offering valuable insights and opportunities, and empowering young minds to navigate their career paths successfully.”

DCL and Broward County previously announced a 15-year agreement that includes a minimum 10.6 million passenger movements, and three 5-year extension options that could add another 11.25 million passenger movements. The agreement provides for one ship to homeport in Port Everglades year-round, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.

Those interested in growing their career with Disney Cruise Line may visit DCLJobs.com to explore available roles and to learn more about cast and crew benefits.

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About Disney Cruise Line: For more than 25 years, Disney Cruise Line has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry, providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all Disney has to offer. Today, the award-winning Disney Cruise Line continues to expand its blueprint for family cruising with a fleet of five ships — the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish — and three more ships planned, including the Disney Treasure and the Disney Adventure. The Disney Cruise Line fleet sails to destinations in The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, the South Pacific, and Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit disneycruise.com.

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Uncork the Magic

Junior Achievement is thrilled to announce the return of its ultimate epicurean experience, JA World Uncorked

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Broward County, FL — Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is thrilled to announce the return of the ultimate epicurean experience, JA World Uncorked, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Hosted by JA’s Circle of Wise Women and sponsored by CITY Furniture, presented by Breakthru Beverage Florida, and amped up by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, this food and wine extravaganza is set to captivate over 700 guests within JA World Huizenga Center at the Lilian S. Wells Pavilion.

JA World Uncorked beckons food and spirits aficionados to indulge in an indoor festival that promises delectable bites and luscious desserts from South Florida’s leading culinary creators. Delight your senses with an expansive array of premier wines, champagne, spirits and craft beers.

Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida, exclaimed, “JA World Uncorked transcends the joy of wine and food; it embodies our mission to empower young minds. Each facet of this experience is crafted to offer every attendee a taste of our commitment to shaping a brighter future through education and empowerment.”

General admission tickets, priced at $250, are available at JASouthFlorida.org/Uncorked, offering attendees an unlimited supply of delights, beverages, live music, dance and the chance to win enticing raffle prizes.

Now in its 13th year, JA World Uncorked continues to raise funds for Junior Achievement’s educational initiatives. These programs empower over 80,000 K-12 students annually in Broward and south Palm Beach counties, teaching invaluable lessons in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness.

JA World Uncorked owes its success to the generous support of sponsors, including CITY Furniture (Title Sponsor), Breakthru Beverage Florida (Presenting Sponsor), Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and a host of other esteemed partners. Thank you, Florescue Family Foundation, Moss Foundation, The James & Sandra Mantey Family Foundation, The Gussack Family – Exotech Inc., Comcast, Gray Robinson Attorneys at Law, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, AME Solutions, Greater Good Tech, Transworld Business Advisors, Florida Power & Light, Fiserv, Island TV, Centuric, CGC Group, Fran & Peter Woolf, Dooshers, Bank of America, CrewFacilities.com, Deutsche Bank Wealth Management, Merrill Lynch, Miller Construction Company, RCC Associates, Seacor Island Lines and SJF Law Group.

For more information, including exciting sponsorship opportunities, kindly contact Robyn Harper at [email protected] or (954) 979-7100.

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About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers our youth with the knowledge, ability and confidence to navigate their futures, drive our economy, and lead our community. JA provides real-world training in financial literacy including budgeting, spending, investing and the use of credit; offers cutting-edge skill-building opportunities that enable young people to explore meaningful, productive careers; teaches students how to start businesses; and introduces entrepreneurial values that strengthen workplaces. Last year, with the help of 5,100 trained corporate and community volunteers, JA delivered 20+ programs to over 80,000 students in classrooms throughout Broward and south Palm Beach counties and at JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, a first-class facility housing JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. For more information about Junior Achievement of South Florida, visit JASouthFlorida.org. Follow JA on social media @jasouthflorida.

For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Miller, Senior Marketing and Media Production Manager
Junior Achievement of South Florida
(954) 979-7110

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Navigating a “Blue Christmas”

How Rising Prices Impact Teen Holiday Spending

Author: Kelsey Matzinger
Junior Achievement USA
Published: November 15, 2023

It’s that time of year again, where the holiday season is upon us. However, for many teenagers, it seems that a “Blue Christmas” might be in store. According to our recent survey conducted by the research firm Big Village, over half of teens report that rising prices have had a significant impact on the number and types of gifts they’ve received during the holidays in recent years.

As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s no surprise that teens, just like their adult counterparts, are feeling the economic pinch. But what does this mean for their holiday spending and what steps can we take to support them during these trying times?

Teens’ Holiday Spending and Concerns

Inflation Concerns

It’s not just the impact of rising prices on their gift-giving that concerns teens. Nearly three-in-four, a whopping 71 percent of them, expressed worries about the effects of inflation on this year’s holiday shopping season. This is a considerable shift in perspective, as inflation typically remains a topic reserved for the financial discussions of adults.

How Teens Fund Their Holiday Shopping

Holiday Spending Money Sources

Teens rely on various sources to fund their holiday shopping. According to the survey, 71 percent of teens say they get holiday spending money from their parents or caregivers. It’s a common and expected source of funds for many teenagers.

What’s intriguing is that 19 percent of teens look beyond their families for holiday cash and opt for a different route—gig jobs or side hustles. These can include anything from delivering groceries to tutoring, illustrating a growing trend among teens to take matters into their own hands.

The Gig Economy and Age Restrictions

However, there’s a catch. Many gig jobs often come with age restrictions that prevent minors from participating. This presents a unique challenge for teens who seek financial independence through these opportunities. While work experience is undoubtedly valuable, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to be aware of these restrictions and encourage teens to explore age-appropriate work if needed.

Shopping Trends: In-Store vs. Online

In-Store Shopping

Despite the growth of e-commerce and online shopping, in-store shopping still holds significant appeal for teens. This year, 76 percent of teens plan to shop “in-store” for their holiday gifts. This number marks a slight decrease from 2021 when 81 percent preferred brick-and-mortar stores. The physical shopping experience remains a significant part of the holiday tradition for many teenagers.

Online Shopping

Online shopping has its place in the hearts of teens as well. This year, 67 percent of teens plan to shop online for their holiday purchases. This is a slight drop from the 70 percent who chose online shopping in 2021. The availability and convenience of online shopping options make it an attractive choice for many.

“These survey findings suggest that teenagers are dealing with the practical consequences of increased costs,” said Jack Kosakowski, CEO of Junior Achievement USA. “At Junior Achievement, we urge parents and caregivers to seize this moment by discussing essential topics such as holiday budgeting, savvy shopping, and inventive gift-giving strategies in the face of elevated prices. Also, while we emphasize the value of work experience, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to be cognizant of age restrictions associated with gig jobs and, when necessary, guide their teenagers toward age-appropriate work opportunities.”

How Junior Achievement Can Help

At Junior Achievement, we believe in equipping teens with essential life skills, particularly in the face of economic challenges. Teens today are experiencing the economic realities of higher prices, and we’re here to provide support and resources to help them navigate these challenges.

Our organization offers a valuable resource for money management skills—JA Connect. This free online resource is designed to help teens explore careers, entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, how to manage money. The “My Money” section of JA Connect guides teens through the process of developing a budget and planning their financial future.

In conclusion, the “Blue Christmas” phenomenon is one that we can work together to mitigate. By providing teens with financial education, guidance, and support, we can help them overcome the challenges posed by rising prices and continue to make their holiday dreams come true.

Let’s ensure that the “Blue Christmas” turns into a season of financial empowerment, learning, and positive growth for our teens.

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JA Alumni Report 2021-2022

Read Junior Achievement’s Latest Alumni Report

OVERVIEW

These are the findings of an Ipsos poll conducted between June 13-15, 2022. For this survey, a sample of 7,427 Americans age 18+ from the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii was interviewed online in English. This includes 1,003 Junior Achievement Alumni. The poll has a credibility interval of plus or minus 1.4 percentage points for all respondents and 3.8 percentage points for Junior Achievement Alumni respondents.

GENERAL IMPACT OF JA

According to the survey, just under one in five Americans (18%) have participated in the Junior Achievement (JA) program at some point during their kindergarten through twelfth-grade education. As part of their experience, more than three-in-four (76%) JA Alumni report that a volunteer from JA came to visit their class, after-school program, or another setting to teach them about money, jobs, or business. Among those who report that a volunteer came to their class, nearly two-thirds (64%) say they remember the concepts the volunteer taught them about money, jobs, or business. More than half (56%) say they are currently in a career or job, or have worked in a similar position, to the one their JA volunteer had. Ninety-two percent report that JA was a great experience overall, and nearly as many (91%) report that JA motivated them to learn. Strong majorities of JA Alumni report that JA played an important role in believing they can achieve their goals (90%), their personal development (87%), and gave them confidence in new situations (85%).

EDUCATION AND CAREER PATH

When it comes to education, jobs, and careers, similar proportions report JA positively influenced their decision to pursue higher education (84% overall – 83% White JA Alumni, 86% Black JA Alumni, 85% 2 Junior Achievement 2022 Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni), their professional development (84% overall – 84% White JA Alumni, 87% Black JA Alumni, 84% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni), and their career path (81% overall – 80% White JA Alumni, 89% Black JA Alumni, 82% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Ninety percent say it exposed them to different ways of thinking, 89 percent say it motivated them to succeed in their professional lives, and 88 percent say JA widened their horizons. Similarly, 88 percent say it made them think of new work opportunities or career paths. Four in five report that their careers are extremely fulfilling (80%). In terms of aligning education with career outcomes, nearly three-in-four (73%) JA Alumni who graduated from college say they work in a field they studied in college (71% White JA Alumni, 72% Black JA Alumni, 78% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Research by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows that just one-infour (27%) American college graduates say they work in the field they studied in school. Additionally, more than two-thirds (69%) of JA Alumni say they currently work in their dream career (72% White JA Alumni, 69% Black JA Alumni, 69% Hispanic/Latino JA Alumni). Research by MidAmerica Nazarene College shows that only 25 percent of Americans say they are in their “dream career.”

CLICK TO READ THE FULL REPORT

Thank You American Express Foundation!

The American Express Foundation provides funding support to local JA Areas with a focus on engaging American Express employees to serve as volunteers. Through their grant, Building Financial Confidence in Underserved Youth, American Express Foundation will be impacting the lives of hundreds of students with financial literacy programs like JA Finance Park. Students will be taught to make intelligent financial decisions related to income, expenses, savings and credit.

Junior Achievement USA gratefully acknowledges American Express for its dedication to JA Areas with funds to support financial literacy lessons for young achievers.

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Mindset Day: Transforming Student Mindsets

Transforming Student Mindsets: The Impact of Mindset Day at McArthur High School

In a world where students’ sense of belonging and commitment are paramount to their success, McArthur High School in Hollywood, Florida, took a significant step forward with Mindset Day. It began when the school’s post-survey results revealed a challenge: low scores in response to the statement, “I feel a sense of belonging at my 3DE school.” Recognizing the importance of addressing this issue, the school’s 3DE leadership shifted their focus to student engagement They seized an opportunity to leverage the powerful insights of Sara Blakely’s Mindset Series, which encourages students to embrace authenticity, confidence, curiosity, and determination.

Mindset Day was not just another event; it was a strategic alignment of vision and purpose. The 3DE staff and administration worked in unison to ensure that the event’s objectives were aligned with the school’s overarching goals. Their shared vision aimed to foster a sense of belonging and relevance within the school community.

To create a holistic experience, 3DE extended an invitation to its community members, including school security, social workers, Junior Achievement representatives, reading/math coaches and more. This comprehensive engagement was intentional; it aimed to introduce students to the vast resources available to support their educational journey, ensuring they felt well-supported and valued.

Mindset Day was a full-day assembly characterized by teacher-led mindset stations, each thoughtfully designed around the mindset series lessons: “See it a New Way,” “Fill in the Blank,” “Hello Purpose,” “Aim High,” and “Reframing Failure.”

The event was not just about inspiring students for a day; it aimed to bring about lasting change. Pre- and post event data revealed significant positive shifts in student

perceptions. Notable increases included heightened excitement about joining 3DE, entering high school, setting ambitious goals, creating action plans, embracing failure as part of the learning process, and gaining clarity about their life’s purpose.

When students first heard about a full-day assembly, they weren’t particularly enthusiastic. However, the event surpassed their expectations, and in an unexpected turn, they found it both enjoyable and transformative. Those who initially hesitated ended up raving about the experience, even telling their friends who skipped the day that they had missed something special.

Mindset Day at McArthur High School stands as a testament to the transformative potential of the mindset series. By aligning with the school’s administration, engaging the broader community, and using data to assess success, this event exceeded its initial objectives. It not only improved student perceptions but also fostered a deeper partnership between the 3DE program and the school’s leadership. In the spirit of the Mindset Series’ core tenets of Authenticity, Confidence, Curiosity, and Determination, McArthur High School is poised to continue its journey toward excellence, led by a community of empowered and inspired minds.

CLICK TO READ THE NEWSLETTER

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT 3DE SCHOOLS

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JA Enhances Teaching Experiences with Cutting-Edge Technology

Zebra’s ET40 tablets help the non-profit organization provide an engaging, efficient and eco-friendly way to simulate real-life scenarios for students.

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) is part of a worldwide network that strives to inspire and educate students in financial literacy, workforce readiness and entrepreneurship. Junior Achievement of South Florida is one of 100 plus Junior Achievement locations in the United States and serves approximately 80,000 students a year.

Kids Run the World

As part of its mission to better prepare students for real-world scenarios, Junior Achievement of South Florida offers interactive courses that allow kids to be adults for a day. JA BizTown is a mock city with 18 storefronts sponsored by real local businesses. When students arrive, they are assigned careers for the day, such as bank tellers, doctors, attorneys, magazine editors and meter readers. Students perform that role while interacting with other students and businesses within the town.

Eighth graders get a similar experience with JA Finance Park. While it looks and feels similar to JA BizTown, it is a different program with different goals. Students receive a profile and a life scenario for the day where they simulate real-life decisions for that profile. Additionally, students learn about different career paths they might want to pursue.

A More Interactive Experience

Before 2017, faculty printed course packets for students who attended both JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. The packets contained details about the course and each student’s role in the simulation. With thousands of students attending each year, the amount of paper printed each day was significant. Additionally, staff spent extra time printing course materials and preparing for the next round of students.

CLICK TO READ THE FULL SUCCESS STORY

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South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day

South Florida Broadband Careers Awareness Day is expected to set the national template for other states

WIRELESSESTIMATOR.COM

South Florida will host the first national Broadband Careers Awareness Day, a broadband industry coalition led by Broadband Careers and supported by Junior Achievement of South Florida and Neptuno USA, Corp.

Open to the public at no charge (REGISTER HERE), the promoters have provided an opportunity for telecommunication companies, education providers, industry associations, and representatives of state, local, and federal agencies to convene on Friday, October 27, 2023, at the Junior Achievement of South Florida facilities at 1130 Coconut Creek Blvd, Coconut Creek, FL to brainstorm and discuss the many challenges and opportunities that are arising around broadband deployment.

There will also be a strong focus on the attractive career paths offered to the youth looking to enter a dynamic, rewarding, and essential workforce.

Junior Achievement serves 80,000 students in Broward and South Palm Beach counties through the efforts of more than 7,000 volunteers.

Commissioner Carr and other dignitaries will be represented

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, an avid supporter of workforce development, will provide virtual opening remarks to attendees that will include Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz; Sean Lewis, Florida’s Chief of Broadband Initiatives; as well as officials from the City of Coconut Creek and representatives of Broward College, Miami Dade Community College, and Learning Alliance.

Representing industry associations will be Dr. Gemma Frock, Director of Workforce Development for NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, and Amelia de Jesus, Vice President of Workforce Solutions for WIA – the Wireless Infrastructure Association.

Miami Tech Works will also be in attendance. They have a coalition of over 200 stakeholders in the “tech” ecosystem that brings together a critical group of business leaders with education and training providers to align academic programs with the needs of employers.

Numerous industry companies like MasTec Network Solutions and SBA Communications Corporation support the initiative.

CLICK HERE TO READ FULL ARTICLE

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