How to Engage Students in Their Learning

As schools across Wisconsin welcome students back this month, perhaps the most important question educators will be asking is, “How can I help my students be truly engaged in their learning?” After all, teaching is so much more than having students in their seats. It’s about helping young people see purpose in their learning, confidence in their abilities and opportunity in their future.

Across the country, student engagement remains a growing concern. Chronic absenteeism rates remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels with nearly one in four students considered chronically absent. When students struggle to answer, "Why does this matter?" motivation declines. Closely aligned to academic achievement, workforce readiness and long-term economic mobility, student engagement may be an educator’s most important metric. Learn more. 

Young La Crosse Food Truck Foodies Roll Out Their First 'Business'

Twenty-five middle school students from the La Crosse area took part in a four-day camp where they teamed up to research, plan and present their own food truck businesses to a panel of judges in La Crosse. The hands-on educational event is a collaboration between Junior Achievement of Wisconsin - Coulee Region and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater La Crosse.

The camp is one of many JA learning experiences for young people that simulate real-world decision-making in immersive environments which instill confidence and self-sufficiency and lead to increased economic mobility and stronger communities. JA volunteers are local professionals who provide program support and contribute their own expertise and real-world experience. Click for the full story.

Have You Heard About Tailgate Trivia?

Have you heard about Tailgate Trivia? It’s an experience you’ll always remember that supports JA learning experiences students won’t ever forget. You’re invited to JA’s Northeast Region for an evening of fun, food, refreshments and friendly competition at the fifth annual JA Tailgate Trivia Challenge Thursday, October 15 at Rockwood Terrace in Green Bay. Enjoy a fun game of trivia with topics ranging from tailgating and sports to music, movies and more.

Your fun-filled evening includes three rounds of trivia, heavy appetizers, soft drinks and a cash bar (Plus that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you know you're doing something good!). And don’t miss out on tickets for our amazing basket raffle! You’ll be supporting a year of JA programs that give thousands of students in Northeast Wisconsin the real-life skills they need to succeed! Sign up now or learn more.

Back to School Checklist (Teacher Edition)

Calling all educators! As the new school year kicks off across the state, we’re excited to reconnect with our long-time education friends and get to know the new faces we’ll be seeing in the months to come. Working together toward a common goal with dedicated volunteers, teachers, and donors is the best way to impact young people across the state, shaping their futures, and instilling a belief in their own potential.

As you prepare for the semester ahead, be sure to make JA a part of your planning:

1.     Watch for outreach from your JA Education Manager. JA program staff are reaching out to our education partners to make plans for the year ahead.

2.     Register your JA class commitments. JA staff will provide materials and scheduling that works best for you. We’ll also recruit, train and match you with a local volunteer, if desired.



3.     Decide how you’d like to receive your JA program. Volunteer classroom guest presenters are encouraged but JA programs can also be delivered by teachers if they prefer. 

Ready for a Career Shift? 

Ready to switch career gears? Junior Achievement of Wisconsin has two new openings where you can be a part of a collaborative team impacting K-12 students statewide. 

Statewide Director of Development

Our Statewide Director of Development position is charged with leading efforts to expand JA’s financial resources while strengthening external partnerships and brand awareness. This role is responsible for all fundraising activities in the Southeast Wisconsin Region in addition to providing strategy development and functional oversight for statewide philanthropic initiatives. Apply today or learn more.

Director of Human Resource

The Director of Human Resources serves as the organization’s senior HR leader and a trusted strategic partner to the CEO. As a key member of the leadership team, this highly visible "player-coach" is responsible for aligning talent, culture and workforce strategy with organizational priorities, creating an exceptional employee experience that supports JA’s mission, growth, and long-term success. Apply today or learn more.

Join JA & the FBLA in the Wisconsin Dells

When it comes to BOGO deals, there’s nothing better than signing up for the FBLA Fall Leadership Conference and getting a taste of one of JA’s most celebrated programs for free! JA and the FBLA have a long-standing partnership and shared commitment to preparing young adults for a future full of success. As part of that partnership, we offer the JA Titan® Business Challenge as a fun, stand-alone breakout session for all attending students.

The Wisconsin FBLA Fall Leadership Conference is November 9-10 at the Chula Vista Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. Registration Opens September 28 and closes October 16. Learn more or register now. Interested in integrating JA Titan with your current curriculum or as a stand-alone course? Contact us or learn more. See you in the Dells!