Junior Achievement Poised for Take Off

I recently attended a training session for volunteers interested in helping Junior Achievement (JA).  This national organization teaches work readiness and financial literacy to young people all over the world.  Washington State’s JA chapter has been around for over 50 years but it just recently expanded its programs to Central Washington.

It was exciting to learn more about the JA curricula.  There are lesson plans and activities designed for children from kindergarden through high school.  The whole program builds a great foundation for kids in the areas of business, economic and life skills.  At first I wondered whether I could really teach this kind of material in a classroom.  After going through the training though I gained more confidence.  JA’s lesson plans are easy to follow and they do a great job of orienting a nonteacher like myself to what the kids should learn at each grade level.

Junior Achievement is building a major learning center in Yakima.  To learn more click here

It is inspiring to learn that over 50 Yakima business and civic leaders are volunteering to deliver the JA curricula at local schools.  Programs at local schools should start unfolding this Spring.  Junior Achievement is still setting up their programs with local school districts so it is likely that these programs will gain even more momentum in the Fall.  The organization is looking for more volunteers so if you are interested please contact Kim Clasen at 206-296-2606 or kimc@jawashington.org.  To learn more about Junior Achievement of Washington click here