Junior Achievement of New Mexico

Junior Achievement of New Mexico (JA of NM) is a non-profit organization with a mission to inspire and prepare young people to own their economic success. We envision a world where young people have the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities.

JA of NM's mission and vision are brought to life through free, hyperlocal programming that focuses on financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship education in K-12 classrooms. All JA of NM programs connect students to their community in a mix of formats. We send trained community volunteers to their local classrooms or bring classrooms to a local place of business, opening students' eyes to the opportunities that exist right here in New Mexico. 

Students who receive JA of NM programs practice the principles of financial management, along with developing the 21st-century skills necessary for the workplace. In addition to learning how to make and manage money and how to become career- & work-ready, students are empowered to explore their potential to become successful entrepreneurs, employees, and community members. 

JA of NM's K - 12 Financial and Career Education services are comprised of the following programs:

Classroom-Based Programs: JA of NM recruits and trains volunteers who teach one of 16 grade-specific courses in K-12 classrooms. Once a week for one hour, a JA of NM volunteer and educator team up in the classroom to provide a five- to seven-week course that teaches critical life skills such as how to manage money, how to prepare for a job or career, and how to start a business.

• Traditional programs can also be taught all in one day as part of a JA in a Day event. During a JA in a Day event, JA of NM brings large volunteer groups into an elementary school to teach our elementary courses all in one day.

High School Heroes: High School Heroes is a work-based learning experience allowing High School students to serve as volunteers teaching in elementary classrooms. JA of NM staff train high school students to teach our elementary courses. The Heroes then volunteer at a local elementary school to teach for a day. 

Job Shadow: Job Shadow provides students with the skills and concepts needed to find and keep a good job. Businesses act as host sites for high school students to participate in first-hand, real-world work experiences. Students visit places of business and work with professionals in a group setting. A majority of students report increased comfortability discussing career readiness with adults after participating in Job Shadow.

Career Speaker Series: JA of NM interviews professionals in a virtual setting so that students hear from members of their community on how to turn their interests and skills into careers. Career Speakers share their personal, educational, and professional journeys with students. All Career Speaker Series videos are uploaded to the JA of NM YouTube channel. 

• JA of NM also brings live Career Speakers to schools for