JA Finance Park® is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity for middle and high school students designed to prepare them for success in the real world. 
About JA Finance Park®
JA Finance Park® is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity for middle and high school students designed to prepare them for success in the real world.
JA Finance Park® offers two distinct program options based on grade and familiarity with financial literacy concepts. By introducing students to personal finance and career scenarios through classroom lessons and an experiential learning simulation, students can apply concepts in a life-like community.
For schools that are unable to make the trip to our experiential learning center in South Fayette Township, JA Finance Park® is also available through a virtual learning simulation that can be accessed from your classroom.
Video credit: JA of Central Ohio
Explore
careers, income, credit, savings, and loans through hands-on learning
Apply
budgeting and financial decision-making in a safe, interactive environment
Empower
students to take ownership of their financial future
JA Finance Park® Program Options
JA Finance Park® Entry
JA Finance Park® Entry Level helps students build a foundation upon which they can make intelligent, lifelong financial decisions, including those related to income, expenses, savings, and credit.
13 Lessons
in-class, teacher-led lessons.
Grades 7-9
are recommended for this popular learning experience.
JA Finance Park® Advanced
JA Finance Park® Advanced introduces a high school and post-high school learning experience for personal financial planning and career exploration.
9 Lessons
in-class, teacher-led lessons.
Grades 9-12
are recommended for this popular learning experience.
Educators
JA Finance Park® complements your curriculum while meeting state standards in financial literacy and career readiness. With flexible delivery options and full training provided, you’ll have support every step of the way. Whether used with JA Financial Literacy® (PA) or as a standalone experience, students gain real-world budgeting and decision-making skills.
Volunteers
Volunteers guide students through the JA Finance Park® simulation, helping them stay focused and make informed financial decisions. No expertise is required—just a willingness to share real-world advice and encouragement. The total time commitment is five hours, including a one-hour training session before the simulation.
From our
Community
Here’s what students and educators have to say about JA Finance Park®.
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Become A Partner
By partnering with us through sponsorship opportunities, your organization supports workforce development, advances corporate social responsibility, and creates long-term impact by empowering financially literate, future-ready citizens.
Host An Event
Our experiential learning center is available to rent for team-building workshops, community events, conferences, and meetings. This 3,000 sq. ft. space is the perfect venue to promote collaboration, inspire creativity and host your next gathering.
FAQs
In-person simulations are held at our Experiential Learning Center located at:
90 Emerson Lane, Bridgeville, PA 15017 (South Fayette Township).
For groups unable to travel to our location, we also offer a virtual simulation option. To learn more, please contact Toni Schlieper at tschlieper@jawesternpa.org or watch a short video to see the virtual experience in action.
There is a small fee for student participation. However, there is no cost for teachers or volunteers. Financial assistance is available for qualifying schools and organizations.
JA Finance Park® welcomes a wide range of participants, including public and private schools, homeschool groups, and community organizations. We’re committed to creating an inclusive learning environment for all.
Yes! To request access to sample curriculum materials, please contact Toni Schlieper at tschlieper@jawesternpa.org.
JA Finance Park® Entry includes 13 required lessons, with optional extension activities available.
JA Finance Park® Advanced includes 9 foundational lessons, along with additional extension opportunities to deepen learning.
Yes! Volunteers are welcome and play a vital role in the JA Finance Park® experience. Please note that high school students may not serve as volunteers. We require one adult volunteer per storefront to ensure a successful simulation.
Our Experiential Learning Center in South Fayette Township can accommodate up to 105 students per JA Finance Park® visit. If your group exceeds this number, please contact Toni Schlieper at tschlieper@jawesternpa.org to discuss possible arrangements.
Yes! You can schedule your visit to JA Finance Park® here.
Yes. All participating educators are required to attend a JA Finance Park® teacher training session to ensure a successful experience for students.
Yes. All volunteers must complete at least one training session each school year. Additionally, volunteers are required to sign and update the online Code of Conduct annually.
Once you secure a JA Finance Park® visit date, you will receive a welcome email with all the details of the program and the link to JA’s Educator Portal that provides you with everything you will need for the program.
No problem! JA Finance Park® also offers a virtual simulation experience. To learn more, please reach out to Toni Schlieper at tschlieper@jawesternpa.org.
You can also watch a short video to see the virtual simulation in action.
To ensure a meaningful and successful experiential learning experience, we strongly recommend that students come prepared with a foundation in personal finance—either through JA’s curriculum or your own. If you have questions or need guidance, please reach out to Toni Schlieper at tschlieper@jawesternpa.org.
