Think back to when you got your first checkbook—or banking app depending on how old you are—were you ready to balance a budget? For most young adults today, the answer is “no.”
Understanding how to manage money is a critical skill for becoming an independent adult, yet financial literacy is seldom included in standard K–12 curricula. In San Diego, Junior Achievement has made it their mission to close this gap, providing more than 865,000 students with education to prepare them for the “real world” and a future of economic success.
At SDG&E, we are committed to the development of San Diego’s next generation of leaders and are proud to support Junior Achievement’s programs to empower youth. The thought is, if we can build a strong interest in science, technology, engineering and math—also known as STEM education—at an early stage these students may be the future leaders of SDG&E.
Getting on the right track early
From kindergarten through high school, Junior Achievement programs are designed to help students develop a path to workforce readiness. Whether through in-class activities, hands-on programs or job shadowing, Junior Achievement provides students with the skills they need to get a job, start a business and manage their money.
One important milestone for Junior Achievement students comes in fifth grade with a visit to the McGrath Family JA BizTown. Prior to their visit, students learn how a city’s economy works, how to apply for a job and how to run a successful business. They then put their knowledge to practice, working a job at one of 21 San Diego businesses, including SDG&E. During the day, each citizen earns two paychecks, opens a banking account, votes, pays taxes and is challenged to help run a profitable business.
Each day, about 150 students visit the interactive mini-city. Whether they become a Construction Foreman, Physician or CEO, each “BizTown Citizen” learns how to manage their finances and the importance of contributing to their community.
Get involved
Junior Achievement and the 75,000 students that benefit from their programs each year rely on volunteers to mentor, supervise and assist students throughout their journey. Check the Junior Achievement website to find an opportunity to volunteer.
SDG&E supports Junior Achievement through our annual Inspiring Future Leaders giving initiative. Visit SDGEnews.com/community throughout the year to learn more about the amazing community partners and programs we will be supporting through Inspiring Future Leaders in 2017.