JA CAPSTONE PROGRAMS
Simulated Learning Programs
JA Capstone Programs are the culmination of classroom study. They provide on-site or virtual experiential activities that allow students to apply knowledge they learned in classrooms to real world situations.
JA Dallas offers two JA Capstone Programs: JA BizTown and JA Finance Park.
Grades 4-6
JA BizTown combines in-class learning with a day-long visit to a simulated town. This popular program allows elementary school students to operate banks, manage restaurants, write checks, and vote for mayor. Through in-class lessons, hands-on activities, and active participation in a simulated community, students are encouraged to use critical thinking skills as they build the foundation in business, economics, and free enterprise. Students develop a strong understanding of the relationship between what they learn in school and their successful participation in a local economy.
JA BizTown program details:
- 12 in-class teacher-led sessions to prepare for the simulation
- Participation in JA BizTown simulation
In-Person Simulation
4 ½ hour visit to the JA BizTown mini-city facility comprised of 15 life-sized Dallas businesses where students use the lessons learned in the classroom to run a business, earn paychecks, open bank accounts, pay taxes, vote, and are challenged to earn a profit in their business. Their experience is monumental and prepares them for a lifetime of learning and academic achievement.
Virtual Simulation
Our web-based JA BizTown simulation transports students into the world of e-commerce right from their computer or tablet. Students use the lessons learned in the classroom to run a virtual business, experience digital marketing, earn paychecks, open bank accounts, pay taxes, vote, all while being challenged to earn a profit in their virtual business.
- 1 in-class session after the simulation for students to reflect on their experience
JA Finance Park Virtual invests in students early on, empowering them to make intelligent lifelong financial decisions including career interests, personal values, how education affects their earning potential. budgeting, credit, interest rates, and how saving today will affect their tomorrow.