Palm Beach Gardens High School Teacher describes students in JA High School Heroes as "Rockstars" for teaching elementary students financial literacy

Palm Beach Gardens High School Teacher Describes JA High School Heroes as "Rockstars" for Teaching Elementary Students Financial Literacy

Author: Denise Sawyer
Financial Literacy
Published: Wednesday, 15 Feb 2023

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Image caption: Karen Kummerlen, the lead teacher of the Global Business and Entrepreneurship Magnet Program at Palm Beach Gardens High School

(LAKE PARK, Fla.) — Karen Kummerlen, the lead teacher of the Global Business and Entrepreneurship Magnet Program at Palm Beach Gardens High School, radiates pride as she discusses the impact of the Junior Achievement (JA) High School Heroes program on both high school and elementary students. At the heart of this impact is the teaching of financial literacy, transforming her high schoolers into "rockstars" in the eyes of the elementary students they educate.

Kummerlen's enthusiasm is palpable as she describes the JA High School Heroes program as a transformative experience for her students, who step into the role of mentors and educators for their younger peers. "They become rockstars," she exclaims, "captivating the attention of elementary students and igniting their curiosity about financial matters."

Image caption: Kummerlen emphasizes the alignment of JA's curriculum with the elementary school syllabus.

Through hands-on and grade-specific curriculum provided by JA, Kummerlen's high schoolers visit Lake Park Elementary School to team-teach essential lessons in financial literacy. As they delve into topics such as budgeting, saving, and the basics of entrepreneurship, these young educators not only impart vital knowledge but also inspire confidence and enthusiasm among their elementary counterparts.

"The elementary students hang on their every word," Kummerlen observes with pride. "They see these high school students as role models, eagerly soaking up lessons on financial responsibility and the importance of planning for the future."

Image caption: "For these elementary students, the high school heroes are not just teachers; they are symbols of possibility," Kummerlen reflects.

The impact of the JA program extends beyond the classroom, instilling character, confidence, and communication skills in high school students while laying the foundation for a financially literate future generation. Kummerlen emphasizes the alignment of JA's curriculum with the elementary school syllabus, underscoring its value in reinforcing essential concepts in an engaging and accessible manner.

"For these elementary students, the high school heroes are not just teachers; they are symbols of possibility," Kummerlen reflects. "By equipping them with the tools to navigate financial decisions, we are empowering them to build brighter futures for themselves."

In essence, the JA High School Heroes program spearheaded by Karen Kummerlen at Palm Beach Gardens High School represents more than just financial education—it embodies a spirit of mentorship and empowerment. Through their dedication and enthusiasm, these "rockstar" educators are shaping a generation of financially savvy individuals poised for success.