Community bank launches Junior Achievement in 36 local elementary classrooms
March 30, 2023
Tioga, ND, March 30, 2023 - The Bank of Tioga launched its sixth year facilitating Junior Achievement (JA) at three local elementary schools with over 36 classrooms in grades K-6. Schools involved include Central Elementary in Tioga, Divide County Elementary, and Powers Lake Elementary.
This year, The Bank of Tioga has ten employees and several community members who volunteer their time to teach five lessons in their assigned classroom. The program began in January and will run through April.
Junior Achievement is the world's largest organization dedicated to educating students in grades K-12 about entrepreneurship, work readiness and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs. The program teaches financial literacy concepts and equip them with the knowledge and skills to make better life choices. All programs align with national and local curriculum standards; therefore, educators fully enjoy the opportunity to involve their students.
“Junior Achievement inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy and learn about their community, jobs and entrepreneurship. The lessons are interactive for the students, and the teachers like that the curriculum touches on the core principles for each grade. I am so honored to be a part of this impact in our local communities," said Joy Sparks, The Bank of Tioga financial literacy coordinator.
Students are encouraged to think practically about starting a business with entrepreneurial thinking to meet the requirements of a demanding and ever-changing workforce. The students learn new vocabulary words, engage in hands on activities and games and discuss local businesses and entrepreneurs.
The program allows community members to be involved in financial literacy instruction and gives teachers an opportunity to take advantage of third-party resources to offer different perspectives to their students.
To learn more about Junior Achievement, contact Joy Sparks, financial literacy coordinator at The Bank of Tioga at joy.sparks@thebankoftioga.com or 701-664-3388.
Photo caption: The Bank of Tioga employees Haley Eriksmoen and Amy Larson pose for a photo with students.
About The Bank of Tioga: At The Bank of Tioga, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. The Bank of Tioga was chartered in 1951 and was acquired by TS Contrarian Bancshares Inc., an affiliate of TS Banking Group in 2014. With $335 million in assets, The Bank of Tioga is committed to supporting local organizations and reinvests a portion of its net income back to the community. Branch locations include Tioga and Crosby, North Dakota. For more information visit thebankoftioga.com.