#United States #Saint Paul #Junior Achievement #3DE

Expansion of 3DE Program to Johnson High School

In an exciting development for students in Saint Paul, Junior Achievement North (JA North) has announced the expansion of its innovative 3DE program to Johnson High School. This initiative is part of a partnership with Saint Paul Public Schools and seeks to integrate a case-based learning structure that not only enhances educational experiences but also prepares students for college and future careers.

Starting from the academic year 2027-2028, all 250 incoming 9th graders at Johnson High School will have access to the 3DE program. The program aims to grow in scale, and by the year 2030, it is expected that the entire student body of approximately 1,000 students will be participating in these transformative learning experiences.

3DE is unique in its approach. It blends real-world learning challenges with classroom instruction, enabling students to tackle actual problems faced by businesses in their community. For instance, students will engage in 16 real-world case challenges alongside local professionals from major organizations like Delta Air Lines, Thrivent, and 3M. This collaboration ensures that students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and adaptability, all of which are crucial for success in today’s competitive job market.

Dr. Stacie Stanley, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools, expressed enthusiasm over this expansion, stating that partnerships like these open up numerous opportunities for students. She noted that similar programs in other local high schools have already yielded impressive results, including substantial increases in student engagement and a greater sense of belonging within the school community.

In the previous school year, schools participating in the 3DE program reported a remarkable 13.3% increase in students feeling accepted and respected, along with a 15.1% rise in students recognizing the real-world applicability of what they learn. Such outcomes emphasize the effectiveness of the 3DE model in fostering a supportive and relevant educational atmosphere.

As employers nationwide continuously voice concerns regarding workforce readiness and the skills gap, the 3DE program serves as a direct response. It addresses these challenges by equipping students with not only academic knowledge but also experiences that are integral to real-world success. The program’s impact has been significant, with JA North aiming to reach even more students across Minnesota and provide them with confidence and capability.

The partnership has already had a positive impact on students at other local high schools, such as Como Park Senior High and Washington Technology High School, engaging around 1,500 students in its first two years.

With this strategic expansion to Johnson High School, Junior Achievement North aspires to create a robust educational platform that empowers students. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every student has access to opportunities that can bridge the gap between their education and future careers.

For more information on 3DE by Junior Achievement and how to get involved, visit janorth.org. This initiative is not only shaping the students of today but is also building a brighter future for the workforce of tomorrow.