Emory Elementary Students Experience Life Beyond School

BizTown: An Inside Look Into the Real World

5th graders at Emory Elementary in the South Bay Union School District experience how the “real world” works through a unique program called BizTown. McGrath Family Junior Achievement’s 10,000 square foot mini-city allows 150 students to become citizens and mimic professional lifestyles. Students are “employed” at one of 21 businesses, attend meetings, pay taxes, donate to charity, and make financial decisions. BizTown gives students the opportunity to begin considering the types of careers they may want to pursue.

Student Paulina Diaz described in-depth what she gained through the BizTown program. She enjoyed the most realistic elements of the experience, including having to dress up in professional attire and the police officers having the ability to give out ticket violations. A student mayor presented a speech in front of the town and students learned how to manage their own bank accounts. In addition, students could apply to a variety of career options, which reinforced the elements of the “real world.” Some job options included UPS, SeaWorld, Cox Cable, and Mission Federal. Diaz added the plethora of interesting choices were challenging to choose from.

Thanks to the generous grant from district’s Education Foundation, along with support from teachers and families, BizTown was a successful way for students to first-handedly gain knowledge about life beyond school.

About the South Bay Union School District:

The South Bay Union School District proudly serves over 7,500 students in Imperial Beach, San Ysidro, and south San Diego. The District is comprised of twelve campuses, including nine K-6 schools, two K-8 charter schools, and one Preschool. South Bay offers several specialized programs including Dual Language, Instrumental Music, Visual and Performing Arts, and a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Academy.

Media Contact
Company Name: South Bay Union School District
Contact Person: Amy Cooper
Email: acooper@sbusd.org
Phone: (619) 628-1605
Address:601 Elm Avenue
City: Imperial Beach
State: CA
Country: United States
Website: http://www.sbusd.org/pages/SouthBayUnion