How much time will it take?
Teaching a class takes up very little time; most classes are approximately an hour a week for 5-7 weeks. The time commitment is small compared to the impact JA classes have participating students. Students who are involved in JA have a better understanding of business concepts; especially financial responsibility and entrepreneurship.
The length of each program varies depending on age group:
Elementary School - One hour a week for 5 weeks
Middle School - One hour a week for 7 - 10 weeks
High School - One hour a week for 7 - 15 weeks
Do I have to know how to teach?
Classroom Consulting is not about the teaching experience but rather the courage and enthusiasm to try. All Classroom Consultants are provided with training, materials, and prepared activities. If you need assistance the JA staff is available.
Exactly what will I be doing?
The programs provided by JA are relevant to the lifestyles and interests of the students as well as being, interactive and fun. Classroom Consultants teach responsibility; responsibility not just concerning financial matters but in terms of community and citizenship. Consultants are encouraged to enrich the JA curriculum with their own personal experiences when relevant as well as, to attempt to connect with their students.
In order to ensure a successful classroom experience, Classroom Consultants are given all materials needed in order to teach JA lessons. Further, JA provides support for Consultants if they have any questions or concerns.
Who volunteers for Junior Achievement?
Junior Achievement Classroom Consultants are a diverse group of individuals. Our volunteers vary in age, background and occupation. Professionals, retirees, parents and college students take time out of their hectic schedules in order to provide JA students with role models and mentors.
What makes a successful Classroom Consultant?
Successful Classroom Consultants are those who bring with them their experience and perspective while, tailoring their message to student audiences. It is important for Classroom Consultants to be reliable, honest and committed. JA students need role-models; therefore, a high level of respect and integrity where students are concerned is a must.
What are the desirable skills for Classroom Consultant?
- Wanting to work with children and young adults
- Enthusiasm for lessons and ability to effectively present them
- Need to be organized, flexible, reliable and energetic.
Please, extend a hand to the youth of
Greater Reading and Lehigh Valley
by becoming a Classroom Consultant!
Volunteers are needed to present JA programs in schools in Greater Reading and Lehigh Valley.
For more information on becoming a classroom volunteer please contact:
Contact Ellen Albright at 610-373-3500 or e-mail: Ellen@jareadinglehigh.org to volunteer.
JA of Greater Reading and Lehigh Valley
531 Canal Street, Suite 403,
Reading, PA 19602
(p) 610-373-3500 (f) 610-373-3637