Our Blog
Purchase 4 Tires & Balise Will Make A Donation
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Every fall and spring, Balise Auto Group runs its Tires to Inspire campaign to support local youth...
Students Are Asking: “Why Are We Learning This?”— And That’s a Good Thing
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Corporate Responsibility
If you've spent time in a classroom recently, you've probably heard a student ask:
“Why are we learning this?”
At first, it might sound like defiance or disinterest. But in reality, it’s one of the most important questions a student can ask—because it signals a desire for meaning, relevance, and connection. And in today’s world, those elements are essential to authentic learning.
The good...
Back to School: Are Teens Being Left Behind on AI?
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Corporate Responsibility
As students head back to the classroom this fall, new insights from Junior Achievement reveal a growing disconnect between the skills today’s teens need and what they’re learning in school. In a recent national survey conducted by Big Village for Junior Achievement, 64% of teens (ages 13–17) said they are not using AI as a learning tool at school. This comes at a time when AI is rapidly reshaping...
Unlocking the Power of Experiential Learning: Preparing Students for the Future of Work
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Work Readiness
In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, traditional classroom instruction alone is no longer enough. Employers increasingly seek individuals with not just technical knowledge, but also adaptability, critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills. This is where experiential learning steps in, and why Junior Achievement (JA) plays a vital role in reshaping how young people...
Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts Announces New Board of Directors
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is proud to announce the appointment of new officers and several new members to its Board of...
JA Workforce with State Farm
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Work Readiness
Starting a career can be daunting, especially when faced with crucial decisions and additional challenges such as growing up in foster care, single parenting, or other significant life hurdles. In these situations, support becomes even more...
2025 Future Bound by Junior Achievement
Blog from JA USA
By Elizabeth Stepanek
Entrepreneurship
From June 8–11, the brightest young minds in entrepreneurship gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, for the inaugural Future BoundTM by Junior Achievement. This dynamic event brought together high school students from across the United States to showcase their innovative projects, demonstrate business acumen, and compete for national recognition for their outstanding achievements. A true celebration of...
The next big idea: local teens pitch business ideas in spirited competition
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
The business sharks of the future are circling in western Massachusetts! Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) held its annual EnTEENpreneur Challenge on April 15 at the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center in...
Teens take center stage at 18 Under 18 awards dinner
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Cheers, applause and proud smiles filled the room as the community came together to recognize the inspiring achievements of some young, local...
Rising stars: Junior Achievement honors its 18 Under 18 Class of 2025
By JAWM
Corporate Responsibility
Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is honoring its 18 Under 18 Class of 2025 at a special celebration sponsored by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, Holyoke Community College, Savage Arms and The UPS...
