JA BizTown®

Imagine a generation prepared to succeed in tomorrow’s economy; a generation of young people who aspire to achieve greatness. Looking ahead, our students will lead our businesses, advance our communities and discover breakthroughs we have not yet imagined. Today, we give them the opportunity to experience these possibilities.

Created for students in 4th through 6th grade, JA BizTown® combines classroom learning with an immersive, day-long visit to a simulated community. Through hands-on experiences, students explore careers, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and what it means to be an active member of their community. They take on real-world roles, make financial decisions, work as a team, and discover the many opportunities available within their own communities.

Questions? Contact us!

Audra Futter, Director of Experiential Learning Centers
afutter@ja-pdx.org

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Learn More about JA BizTown

Through classroom lessons and the JA BizTown simulation, students will:

  • Explore careers and discover different career paths and the skills needed to succeed.

  • Practice financial literacy — earn a paycheck, create a budget, manage expenses, save, and make financial decisions.

  • Experience entrepreneurship — learn how businesses operate and how products and services meet community needs.

  • Develop workplace skills — practice communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making.

  • Understand how businesses and communities work together — experience the connections between employees, businesses, consumers, and community organizations.

  • Become active community members — learn about civic responsibility and their role in a thriving community.

  • Apply classroom learning in a real-world setting — put their knowledge and skills into action during the JA BizTown simulation.

Program Length:

13 classroom sessions + 1 simulation experience

  • 12 teacher-led sessions before the simulation

  • 4–5 hour hands-on JA BizTown simulation

  • 1 post-simulation reflection session

  • Designed for students in 4th–6th grade

  • Spanish translation is available

Volunteers:

  • 23–38 volunteers are needed for each JA BizTown simulation day.

  • Volunteers help students run the simulated businesses, practice workplace skills, make financial decisions, and experience their roles as employees and community members.

  • Schools are encouraged to recruit their own volunteers. If your school needs assistance with volunteer recruitment, please let your JA Site Manager know at least 60 days before your simulation date so we have time to help coordinate support.

  • Volunteer opportunities are available for business professionals, community members, parents, and other approved volunteers.

Cost:

$22 per student.

The program fee includes the classroom curriculum, teacher resources, student materials, and the immersive JA BizTown simulation experience.

If you need assistance with program fee, please contact Audra Futter as we never want cost to be the only barrier for your participation.

JA BizTown is more than a field trip—it’s an opportunity for students to practice the skills, make the decisions, and experience the possibilities of their future.