Frequently Asked Questions

Junior Achievement looks to our volunteers to inspire and educate tomorrow's leaders, but we understand with this new commitment, you may have some initial questions.  Below are some frequently asked questions about JA and volunteering.

Q:  Is JA still an after-school program?
A:  Actually, JA is both an in-school as well as after-school program.  In 1975 the original after-school program phased out.  JA programs evolved to encompass programs which run in a regular classroom during the school day, allowing our volunteers to work side by side with the teachers.  Due to recent demand, after school and summer programs are becoming part of the WNY curriculum once again!  Feel free to contact Alycia Ivancie or Shannon Bloomquist at 853-1381 x15 or 16 for more information on these programs. 

Q:  How much time will volunteering for Junior Achievement take?
A:  Junior Achievement allows you to select the program that best fits your work schedule.  Our elementary programs are 5 lessons, while our middle and high school programs are 6-10 lessons.  Each lesson is approximately 45 minutes.  Class days and times are arranged between you and the teacher so that the experience is convenient for both of your busy schedules.  Some volunteers choose to visit the classroom once a week, while others opt to go in several times over one or two weeks.

Q:  How many students will I teach at one time?
A:  The class size varies depending on the schools or community organization.  Our largest classes are about thirty students.  We will always do our best to place you with a class size with which you are comfortable.  As always, JA staff are available to support YOU!

Q:  What will I teach?
A:  The topics vary according to grade level, but lessons involve everyday economics, global economics, free enterprise concepts, and workforce readiness skills.  Depending on the grade level, students may read a story about sharing or trading, build their own city, or learn how to write a check or fill out a job application.  In our most complex high school program, students even learn how to run a business!  All activities are hands-on, activity based, and take place in the classroom with the teacher present to assist you.  The teaching style is relaxed, motivational and fun!  So be yourself! 

Q:  I don't have a teaching degree, how will I know what to teach?
A:  Junior Achievement makes teaching easy!  We provide the training, prepared activities, and all of the classroom materials. The lesson plans are written for you!  Junior Achievement staff members are available to assist you whenever necessary.  All you need is the enthusiasm to shape young minds!

Q:  Do I have to give tests?
A:  One of the ways we determine the success of our programs is through a pre and post test to your students.  A pre-test (already established by JA) is given prior to your first class or on your first official teaching day, to determine the level of understanding BEFORE you begin teaching.  During your last class, you will administer the same test to see what knowledge the students have gained from your teaching of the JA programs.  These tests help us gauge the students' level of understanding before and after their exposure to JA's programs.  The tests aren't difficult, and the results are generally positive.  The tests are also a great way for you to see how much of an IMPACT you have on your class!

Q:  What if I want to teach again?
A:  Many of our volunteers grow attached to their classes and want to stay involved.  You may always choose to teach another program to the same class, if it is okay with the teacher, or you may choose to try a different school, community organization, or grade level.  You may also wish to take a break until the next semester.

Q:  Will I have a choice in selecting where I teach?
A:  Junior Achievement of WNY will work with you to choose a location based on the requests we have from teachers and community organizations.  We also try to find a location that is most convenient for you (close to home and/or work).

Q:  Who volunteers for Junior Achievement?
A:  JA volunteers come from diverse age groups, backgrounds, and occupations.  Business professionals, senior citizens, retirees, parents, and college students all take time out of their busy schedules to teach kids how business works.  Diverse experiences and perspectives are an asset in the classroom.  When volunteers draw upon their own personal experiences, they bring credibility to the information-and new perspectives into the classroom. 

Q:  I want to be involved but I simply do not have the time to volunteer at this level.  What else can I do?
A:  There are numerous ways that you can become involved with JA.  Throughout the year we have various fund raising events including our Bowl-A-Thon and Golf Outing.  You can also sponsor a class, or volunteer to work at our Calling for Kids phone call campaign.  If it would be easier for the students to come to you, become a Job Shadow host, and allow students to shadow you at your place of business.  Through this progoram, students learn what it's like to work in your field and what education is needed to succeed.  We are also looking for interns on a regular basis to assist our staff during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. 

Q:  What do I gain from volunteering for JA?
A:  Working with children is an enlightening experience - their enthusiasm is contagious and uplifting!  You also have a direct involvement in your community, and volunteer experience is always a valuable resume builder.  Many companies use JA as a development piece for their associates because teaching helps improve presentation and public speaking skills.  Best of all, YOU are helping shape the future & possibly helping to educate future employees!

 For more information about volunteering or if you have further questions, please contact the JA office at 853-1381 x15 or 16.