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Kicking Off 2026 Strong with Debbie Smith CTE Academy Students
Junior Achievement and Debbie Smith CTE Academy partnered together for the day to deliver two JA programs for high school students to kick off the year.
One of the programs was a JA Inspire career fair on the campus. The students were encouraged to interact with dozens of local business representatives in a entertaining way through a game of bingo. Many fun and interesting questions were on their game card to spark questions such as relating to career paths, workplace culture, why someone chose that job, and even find leads on summer positions they may wish to apply for.
The second program was delivered in the classrooms to students by JA volunteers. Through a curriculum called JA Company Program Pop-Up, students learned the practical skills required to plan, launch, and operate their own business venture within a structured, interactive, real-world lesson.
Both programs were a resounding success with the students, volunteers, business representatives, and faculty all agreeing they enjoyed the experience.
Here are highlights from the day:
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Served 694 students across the event
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Hosted 42 tables representing a wide range of industries, including:
- Business and industry professionals
- Military representatives
- Universities and community colleges
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Volunteers from Microsoft, Intuit, Bank of America, and Oscultav taught Junior Achievement’s Company Program Pop-Up in 22 classrooms
- Through the Company Program Pop-Up, students learned:
- How businesses are started and organized
- The roles and responsibilities within a company
- How teamwork, leadership, and decision-making contribute to business success
- Basic concepts of entrepreneurship, innovation, and problem-solving
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Students learned about Debbie Smith, her impact, and her inspiring traits
- Students created a collage highlighting Debbie Smith’s qualities and values
- A citizenship ceremony was held as part of the day
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Local leaders were present, including Jill Tolles and Joe Ernst, and participated in the event
We look forward to delivering this powerful experience again at Debbie Smith CTE Academy in 2027!
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