JA of Western Pennsylvania

Training for the Classroom

JA's new online training will help you quickly learn what it takes to be a positive influence in a JA classroom.

Click HERE to watch the volunteer orientation video for teaching tips.

Click HERE to take the online volunteer training.

For more information, please contact Amanda Laichak, Director of Education at 412-208-4747, ext. 133, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

VOLUNTEER TODAY!

Volunteers play a key role in bringing Junior Achievement to life. By sharing your personal and professional experiences and skills with students from your community, you help them make the connection between what they are learning in school and what they will need to succeed in work and life.

Junior Achievement makes volunteering fulfilling, with flexible scheduling options. Our curriculum provides everything you need to make participation in JA interactive and engaging for students.

For as little as an hour a week, you can make a difference in the lives of young people in your community. Your Junior Achievement experience will leave you feeling proud, energized and hopeful about a better future for our young people.


Nationwide Network:

As a JA volunteer, you are a part of a national network of more than 170,000 business and community representatives who are helping young people develop the competence, confidence and character needed for success in school, work and life.

Preparation for the Real World:

Teachers (95%) and volunteers (92%) report that students who participate in JA have a better understanding of how the real world operates.

Interested in volunteering? Call Amanda Laichak, Director of Education at (412) 208-4747, ext. 133 or email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Click HERE to sign up online.

Click HERE to watch the volunteer orientation video.

Click HERE to take the online volunteer training.

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In our elementary programs, volunteers can expect to teach kids about their economic roles as individuals and family members, and how their roles affect the local, regional, national and global economy, all while having alot of fun!  In one program, kids learn the difference between needs and wants--its always interesting to find out what 1st graders consider "needs".

Elementary programs are either one 45 minute session each week for five weeks, or a "JA One-Day" where all of the sessions are covered in one day.

The middle school programs expose students to career options, money management, trade systems and the American economic system.  In grade 8, volunteers teach about the joys of writing bills and balancing checkbooks--a part of life that is not enjoyable, but certainly essential.

Middle school programs consist of 45 minute sessions each week for 6-8 weeks

High School programs enhance the student's interpersonal skills, teach them to become leaders and give them hands-on work experience.  The programs are hands-on and high tech.

High School programs consist of 45 minute sessions each week for 6-8 weeks.  Some online programs can be taught via computer!

1. How much time do I need to commit to JA?

The time commitment can range from 5-12 visits, each lasting 45 minutes, but the best part about being a JA volunteer is the flexibility. Many teachers understand the need to travel, attend meetings, etc. Volunteers in the elementary grades K-5 present five activities. Middle school grade volunteers present to grades 6-8. The high-school volunteer serves as a resource person, sharing knowledge and experience with students in grades 9-12. Many volunteers teach the same class at the same time every year. Some elementary schools have "JA Day". This format allows the volunteer to present all 5 activities in one day.

2. Do I have to know how to teach?

No, you don't have to know how to teach to present JA's interactive hands-on activities. JA provides training, easy to use materials, a concise Consultant Guide and support to help every volunteer have a successful experience. One of the benefits of volunteering is having the opportunity to gain teaching experience and sharpen presentation skills.

3. What is JA training like?

Training allows the volunteer to become familiar with the program kit materials, reviews student characteristics, classroom management techniques and teacher and volunteer roles. Sessions usually last approximately 2 hours. Group training are provided as requested.

4. Am I alone in the classroom?

The teacher stays in the classroom. JA is a teaching partnership. The volunteer presents each activity and the teacher provides classroom management, offers insights into the class and helps out if the volunteer needs assistance.

5. How can I find out where JA volunteers are needed?

Every year teachers throughout western Pennsylvania request JA programs. These requests are listed at the JA office, and chances are that the JA staff will be able to find classes near your home or work. If you want to work with a particular school and they have not requested any classes, you could approach the school on your own. JA staff will be glad to work with you to establish a good match.

To learn more contact Amanda Laichak, Director of Education at 412-208-4747, ext. 133 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.