Last week, the gymnasium at Prairie Creek Intermediate shed its athletic exterior and transformed into a high stakes economy. Under the guidance of Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa and a dedicated cohort of community volunteers, intermediate learners stepped into the roles of CEOs, bankers, and civic leaders for the annual BizTown® Mobile by Junior Achievement simulation.

While the students see an element of play, Prairie Creek Principal Jen McDonnell sees the high level cognitive development at work.

“Our students understand the definitions of cost, income, and expenses in the classroom, but BizTown is the doing of it,” says McDonnell. “They are put in the position of differentiating wants and needs. It is the real world challenge of realizing, I have to buy insurance, but I want to buy a puppy. Seeing the intermediate learners buy into the simulation with a level of understanding that moves beyond themselves is truly remarkable.”

Leading the charge this year was Prairie Intermediate student Asher Vetsch, who served as the BizTown Mayor. For Asher, the experience was a masterclass in the weight of leadership and the reality of having a set budget.

“I learned you have to be careful with your money,” Mayor Asher reflected. When asked what advice he would give to future citizens of BizTown, his guidance was pragmatic: “Try not to spend it all right at the start!” Ultimately, the Mayor’s verdict on the experience was simple: “It is very fun!”

This year marks the fourth year that BizTown® Mobile by Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa has partnered with the College Community School District. A huge shoutout to the amazing volunteers who helped bring the BizTown® Mobile experience to life this year.” 

Click here to learn more about Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa.