Junior Achievement of Central Ohio and Newark City Schools recently celebrated the opening of the Junior Achievement BizTown. The program offers fifth-grade students an immersive experience in operating businesses and managing finances while participating in a simulated economy. “The JA BizTown in Newark will provide our students with an innovative opportunity to learn valuable life and career skills,” David Lewis, Superintendent at Newark City Schools, said. “Junior Achievement’s Newark Learning Center is a great fit within our community, as we look to create a true center for education in the same building that also houses our district preschool and digital school.” According to JA of Central Ohio, Meta played a crucial role in bringing the educational experience to life.

The Meta shop within JA BizTown introduces students to data centers, technology innovation, and social media, inspiring them to consider careers in business and technology. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Junior Achievement as the organization expands its reach to Licking County,” Tara Tenorio, Community Development Regional Manager for Meta’s New Albany Data Center said. “Meta is committed to the long-term vitality of central Ohio and recognizes the importance that hands-on programs like JA BizTown have in cultivating critical skills for our community’s next generation of leaders.” JA is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed. Students who participate in JA BizTown take four weeks’ worth of economic curriculum before visiting BizTown. During the visit, they make decisions for their businesses and towns, linking classroom learning with real-world experiences.