Regional Impact: Five Parishes, One Powerful JA BizTown Experience
It has been a busy and inspiring month inside JA BizTown, where students step into the roles of workers, business leaders, and community members for a day.
Over the past several weeks, we welcomed students from across Southeast Louisiana, each bringing energy, curiosity, and a willingness to try something new. Lakewood Elementary in Luling joined us for two full days to ensure all their 5th graders could participate, alongside Mayfield Elementary in Slidell, St. Bernadette School in Houma, Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, Metairie Park Country Day School, Bonne Ecole Elementary School in Slidell, and Martin Behrman Charter School Academy of Creative Arts and Sciences in Algiers. We were also proud to host St. John the Baptist Parish special education students, ensuring that every learner has access to this hands-on, real-world experience.
Inside JA BizTown, students don’t just learn about economics. They live it. After weeks of classroom preparation, they arrive ready to run a simulated city by taking on jobs that range from CEO and CFO to marketing and sales roles. Students manage budgets, operate storefronts, vote for mayor, and make real financial decisions. For many, it is the first time concepts like credit, taxes, payroll, and teamwork truly come to life. The result is a powerful shift in confidence as students begin to see themselves as capable, future-ready individuals with a place in the economy.
That momentum continues next month as we prepare to welcome another full slate of schools, including Stuart Hall School for Boys in New Orleans, Emily C. Watkins Elementary, John L. Ory Communication Arts Magnet School, Garyville/Mt. Airy Math and Science Magnet School, Fifth Ward Elementary, West St. John Elementary, LaPlace Elementary, and Lake Pontchartrain Elementary. These schools are part of a growing partnership ensuring that every 5th grader in St. John the Baptist Parish experiences JA BizTown. We will also host Airline Park Academy for Advanced Studies in Metairie and KIPP Central Primary in New Orleans.
This expansion is made possible through dedicated community investment. With grant support, we are removing barriers and ensuring equitable access so that all students, regardless of background, can participate in this transformational program.
The impact of JA BizTown extends far beyond a single day. Students leave with a deeper understanding of how communities’ function, how financial decisions shape their futures, and how their own skills and interests connect to real careers. Teachers consistently share that students return to the classroom more engaged, more confident, and more motivated to learn.
As we look ahead, we encourage schools to begin booking their JA BizTown experiences for next school year. Demand continues to grow, and early scheduling ensures that your students don’t miss this opportunity to connect classroom learning to the real world in a meaningful way. To learn more or reserve a date, contact Suzanne at suzanne@jagno.org.
Businesses and community partners also play a vital role in bringing JA BizTown to life. Community members can also get involved by volunteering in BizTown, working directly with students as they run their simulated city and helping guide their experiences.
From storefront naming opportunities to street signage and program sponsorships, there are meaningful ways to invest in the next generation. Partners can also sponsor individual classrooms or entire school districts, directly expanding access for students across our region. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kelly at kelly@jagno.org.
JA BizTown is more than a simulation. It is a transformative learning experience that helps young people see what is possible for their futures.
