Forty-two South Garland High School students recently had the opportunity to become teachers for one day. Introducing finance and marketing principals to their younger peers at Heather Glen Elementary, these juniors and seniors enlightened students, honed their presentation skills and became role models—all thanks to the High School Heroes program from Junior Achievement of Dallas.
“We partnered with Junior Achievement because one of the things I am looking to build and strengthen is my students’ communication skills,” said South Garland marketing teacher Rochelle McMillon. “I was actually taken aback by my students and their interaction with the kids. Before coming, they were kind of afraid to present. They really got into this program, and are really acting as High School Heroes.”
The SGHS student-teachers are all members of DECA, an association of marketing students. During the Feb. 13 event, five hands-on lessons covered everything from city planning to entrepreneurial skills in kindergarten through fourth grade.
“This is a pretty good experience to come here and teach the kids about money, the importance of family and how businesses work,” commented senior Julyssa Macedo. “I taught first grade, so we were explaining what family is–what they do, how they live, how they are different and how they are the same.”
Students at Heather Glen were happy to see high schoolers in their classrooms, and teachers were impressed by the lessons the Colonels led throughout the day.
“I was pleased that South Garland shared their time, knowledge and resources with my students,” said second-grade teacher Ashley Hill. “The Junior Achievement program offered my students a fruitful opportunity to learn about the interconnectivity of community while developing a relationship with upperclassmen.”
South Garland is the second campus to collaborate with Junior Achievement. In the fall, Lakeview Centennial High School students visited Sewell Elementary School. District campuses are taking advantage of Junior Achievement’s High School Heroes program due to a presentation principals saw in the summer.
“Junior Achievement has been around since 1919, and our goal is to bring economic education to students in kindergarten through 12th grade,” said Senior Education Manager Barbara Heise. “This is the first time we have worked with Garland ISD. We are really excited about this new partnership and getting the high school students involved.”
McMillon said she is excited to see the benefits of this new relationship help her students in the future.
“Ultimately, I want this experience to teach my students to have confidence in themselves, to let them know that they can conquer anything.”