Partnership Helps Students Learn Economics of Staying in School
April, 2010

On March 30th, the Partnership took part in Junior Achievement's Economics for Success Program, helping students at two Greater Halifax schools learn the economic benefits of staying in school.

Eight Partnership staff spent the morning mentoring middle-school students at Sir Robert Borden School in Dartmouth and Duncan MacMillan High School in Sheet Harbour.  Together, they explored the importance of post-secondary education, the financial realities of living independently, and the interpersonal and employability skills needed to be successful.

 “As a trainer in JA’s Economics of Success Program I clearly saw how the students were making the very important link between the earning power a particular career choice would have and whether this matched their expectations," said Karen Fraser,  Director of Corporate Services at the Partnership. "In many cases they were surprised, but they were also ready to alter their expectations to pursue a career they like versus choosing a career based solely on earnings."

While individual participation in Junior Achievement is critical, businesses who adopt a school can have a greater impact in a shorter amount of time.  That's only one of the reasons Partnership staff were eager to participate after being introduced to the program by Lynn Coveyduck, President and CEO Junior Achievement Nova Scotia

"Junior Achievement's programs help young people develop the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in life and in the workforce.  They get students thinking about their future at a young age - showing the direct link between educational attainment and career opportunities," said Paul Kent, President and CEO of the Partnership. "This program is definitely worthwhile, and I encourage other businesses and organizations to get involved."