In 2022, I (Dara) joined the team at Junior Achievement of Middle Tennessee as the Senior Director of Development. Though I witness students participating in JA programs every day, it wasn't until last school year that both of my kids got to experience it for themselves.

The key word is both.  

My oldest son, Uriah, got to experience JA BizTown with his fifth grade class in November 2023 and I'll share more about his experience below. Fast forward several months, and my youngest son, Ezra, got to experience a JA Classroom program in June 2024.  Volunteers from Caterpillar Financial visited his elementary class and shared details about their careers through our JA Career Speaker Series. Ezra got to explore a career that no one in our family has chosen and to this day, he still talks about wanting to work for Caterpillar Financial.

Uriah's experience in JA BizTown is noteable becuase he is downright awesome. That's my way of sharing he has Down syndrome. Students with disabilities often need more supports throughout the school day, especially when it comes to feild trips like JA BizTown. 

JA BizTown combines in-class learning with a day-long visit to a simulated town for 4th- 6th grade students. This is one of our most popular programs and allows students to operate banks, manage restaurants, write checks, and vote for mayor. Students learn to connect the dots between what they learn in school and the real world. 

This was Uriahs first time participating in a simulated learning experience and his school's first time participating in this program. He worked as the law enforcement officer in City Hall and you couldn't wipe the smile off his face! It was incredible to witness his joy in working his job, earning a paycheck and spending his paycheck. He adotped a cat from the Mar's Pet Adoption Center and he still has it!  Uriah being able to role play in JA BizTown incresed his self-worth and our open dialogue as a family to include his future work options. Though he loved his time in City Hall, he now has his sights set on becoming a cashier at Trader Joes or Hugh-Baby's. 

Uriah's JA experience highlights that every student deserves to experience the dignity of working a job and being a contributing citizen. Imagine what workforce gaps we could fill if every person, including individuals with disabilities, are inspired and prepared to work! 

The JA team has created addtional materials for the exceptional education teachers/aides who have students planning to participate in JA BizTown. Job opportunities for students with disabilities are clearly listed based on level of supports needed. Our inclusive jobs in JA BizTown include, but are not limited to: Parks & Recreation Director, Animal Rescue Specialist, Electric Meter Reader & UPS Delivery Driver.

Our hope is that every 5th grade student in Middle Tennessee can experience JA BizTown and other JA programs. That's why our family is helping raise $2,500 so JA of Middle Tennessee can reach over 36,000 kids this year.  We would love for you to consider supporting JA and our page!