Children’s Trust grant supports new 3DE by Junior Achievement program at Eastside High School

Press release from Junior Achievement of Alachua County

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Junior Achievement of Alachua County (JA) is thrilled to announce the receipt of a $100,000 grant from the Children’s Trust of Alachua County. This substantial grant will support JA’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy by funding the introduction of 3DE Schools in Alachua County.

The Children’s Trust of Alachua County, a dedicated advocate for the well-being and development of children, recognizes the importance of equipping youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate their future. This partnership with Junior Achievement underscores a shared commitment to empowering the next generation through education and practical learning experiences.

3DE by Junior Achievement is an innovative educational model designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experiences. By integrating practical, hands-on learning opportunities with traditional high school curricula, 3DE aims to enhance economic mobility and expand opportunities for students. The program fosters partnerships between school districts, Junior Achievement, and the business community to create an enriching educational environment that prepares students for future success.

3DE will be introduced at Eastside High School in Alachua County starting in August 2024. This marks the program’s first implementation in the county. The introduction of the educational model will commence with the incoming ninth-grade class and will be phased in over four years, ultimately encompassing all grade levels by the 2027-2028 school year.

During this period, freshmen at Eastside High School will participate in solving real-world problems provided by both local and national companies: Truist, CAMPUS USA Credit Union, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Security Systems, and Delta Airlines. Through dynamic case studies, students will engage in authentic business challenges, leveraging their knowledge and skills to create innovative solutions. With the guidance and support of coaches from the local business community, these students will spend five weeks in intensive collaboration and problem-solving. At the conclusion of five weeks of preparation, they will present their solutions to their peers and a panel of judges made up of esteemed local business leaders, typically from the company that is sponsoring the case challenge.

“The Children’s Trust believes in the vast potential of all students, especially when given the tools to succeed,” said Marsha Kiner, executive director of the Children’s Trust of Alachua County. “This innovative model will set Eastside High School students apart as they head into the real world in a few short years.”

This initiative promises to enrich the educational experience at Eastside High School, preparing students for future career opportunities and equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic and evolving job market.

“3DE is ‘the hook’ for students, it helps answer why one should strive to be a life-long learner,” said Alachua County Public Schools Superintendent Shane Andrew. “If we listen to students’ voices carefully, then we can quickly determine how to meet their diverse needs.  Based on 3DE student testimonials that I have heard, there is no doubt in my mind that implementing the 3DE program at Eastside High School will change the trajectory of our students’ futures and our greater community as a whole.”

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