Future Leaders in Training: Middle Schoolers Take Over JA BizTown

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Future Leaders in Training: Middle Schoolers Take Over JA BizTown

Last week, our middle school students stepped out of the classroom and into the "real world" at Junior Achievement BizTown. The quiet halls of our school were replaced by the bustling energy of a miniature city, where our students weren't just learners—they were CEOs, bank tellers, reporters, and city officials.

More Than Just a Field Trip

While it looks like a day of play, JA BizTown is the culmination of weeks of intensive classroom preparation. Before stepping foot in the simulated city, students completed a rigorous curriculum covering:

• Economics 101: Understanding how money flows through a community.
• The Job Market: Practicing interviews and applying for specific roles.
• Financial Literacy: Learning the difference between gross and net pay and how to balance a checkbook.

The practical application of these lessons was immediate. As student Drea noted, "My experience at BizTown was fun because you got to do a job, get paid, and buy stuff. We learned customer service, checks, and bills."

A Day in the Life

Once the "city" opened for business, the transformation was incredible. Each student had a critical role to play in keeping the economy running, using professional equipment to get the job done. "It was good because we had a job to do and real tools to use during our time there," shared Adalynn. "We learned how to endorse our checks and spend our money."

• The Workforce: Employees at various storefronts worked hard to provide services and sell products to their fellow citizens.
• The Bank: Student tellers processed deposits and managed business loans, ensuring the town's financial health stayed on track.
• The Government: Our student-elected mayor presided over the town, enforcing laws and fostering a sense of civic duty.
• The Consumers: During their breaks, students received paychecks (after taxes!), managed their personal bank accounts, and made tough decisions on how to spend their hard-earned money.

Real Challenges, Real Rewards

The fast-paced environment gave students a true taste of the pressures of leadership. Michael, who served as a high-level executive, reflected on the intensity of the day:

"It was like chaotic, but in a good way. For me, I was the CEO of a bank, and tons of people were wanting me and asking for interviews, and it was hard keeping up with them all. But in the end, I felt good, as I was able to accomplish all of my tasks. I really enjoyed my time at Biztown."

Why It Matters

By connecting abstract concepts like entrepreneurship and workforce readiness to a tangible experience, JA BizTown bridges the gap between school and the future.

Our students walked away with more than just a souvenir; they gained confidence in their decision-making, a better grasp of teamwork, and a first-hand look at the careers that await them.

We are so proud of our young professionals for their hard work and community spirit! Check out our photo gallery to see our future CEOs and civic leaders in action.