Educators Frequently Asked Questions
In-Class Program FAQs
After my Junior Achievement Education Manager informs me that she will assign a volunteer to my classroom, what should I expect next?
- The first thing you should expect will be a phone call or email from your assigned volunteer to schedule an appointment for an introductory meeting and class observation. Keep in mind, it may take a few weeks to find a volunteer for your classroom. Make an effort to get back to him/her in a timely manner once s/he has contacted you.
When and how often will the volunteer be in my classroom?
- Your volunteer will visit your classroom once a week for either 5 (for elementary programs), 6 (for middle school programs), or 7 (for high school programs) weeks on a schedule that you and the volunteer determine. Lessons range from 45 minutes to an hour.
Whom should I call if I am having difficulty with my volunteer?
- Do not hesitate to contact your education manager at Junior Achievement (619-682-5155) if you are having difficulty with your assigned volunteer.
What kind of support should I expect to provide for my volunteer?
- The partnership you create with the volunteer is key to a successful program. As the teacher, you are ultimately responsible for the class when your volunteer is visiting and you should remain in the classroom while s/he conducts the lesson. You can help break the students into groups and help manage student behaviors. Finally, you can provide the volunteer with specific information concerning the special needs of the students in your classroom.
What do I do if I will be absent?
- You may or may not want the volunteer to conduct a session with a substitute teacher. It is totally up to you and your volunteer's comfort level and schedule. When you meet with your volunteer for the first time, you should be discuss how to deal with absences. It is good practice to contact the volunteer the day before his/her visit to confirm that "all systems are go".
What do I do if my volunteer loses control of the class?
- As the teacher, you can help with all disciplinary measures. Work together with your volunteer and make sure to enforce class rules and deal with behavior issues if your volunteer is unable to do so. Remember, your volunteer is your guest, not the disciplinarian.
Do you have questions we didn't address here? Let us know and we'll answer them.
Email info@jasandiego.org or call the Education Team at (619) 682-5155.
BizTown FAQs
What is the time commitment for teachers?
- In addition to a 90-minute training, the teachers deliver 45 minutes of classroom instruction per day over a five-week period. Teachers are enthusiastic about the ability to teach economic, reading and math standards in an exciting, real-world context. The instruction culminates in The McGrath Family JA BizTown visit in which students apply their new skills and run a mini-city for a day.
What is the financial responsibility of the school?
- The school will be responsible for an $18 per student fee plus bus transportation to the site.
What is included in the fee?
- The fee includes teacher training, fully developed curriculum and activities, student materials and a one-day experience at The McGrath Family JA BizTown. The students will need to bring their own lunch.
Where do schools get funding?
- This varies by district and schools. Some districts and schools fund all of their 5th grade students to attend either through their annual budget or through the district education foundation.
What about schools in low-income areas?
- Schools may apply for The McGrath Family JA BizTown scholarship, funded through contributions. It is Junior Achievement's commitment that every student may attend The McGrath Family JA BizTown regardless of income.
Who provides transportation to The McGrath Family JA BizTown?
- Each school is responsible for bus transportation to The McGrath Family JA BizTown.
How are parents and community members involved in The McGrath Family JA BizTown?
- The hallmark of Junior Achievement programs is creating the bridge between the classroom and the community. The McGrath Family JA BizTown uses between 25 and 40 parent or business volunteers during the visit to assist students in the town, helping with price decisions, bookkeeping, check writing, and technology. It is this vibrant interaction between adults and students that make the outing more meaningful to the students and presents a unique opportunity to directly involve parents and the community in their children's education. The volunteers are trained by Junior Achievement staff. They attend a 90-minute training session and then spend 4.5 hours helping kids in BizTown.
Do you have questions we didn't address here? Let us know and we'll answer them.
Email info@jasandiego.org or call the Education Team at (619) 682-5155.