Junior Achievement of Western PA Hosts Record-Breaking Stock Market Challenge

December 12, 2024
Events, Financial Literacy, Programs, Work Readiness

On December 12, Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania (JAWPA) hosted its first-ever Stock Market Challenge at STAGE AE, an event that made history as the largest inaugural event of its kind ever hosted by a Junior Achievement chapter in the United States. The event, presented by Citizens, brought together more than 370 high school students for a thrilling, hands-on experience of stock market trading, teamwork, and financial strategy.

A Day of Excitement and Learning

The Stock Market Challenge kicked off with an enthusiastic welcome from Patrice Matamoros, President of JAWPA. Matamoros energized the crowd with a fun selfie session that set the tone for the day’s dynamic atmosphere. Students were encouraged to share their experiences on social media, fostering a lively, connected community throughout the event. “Today was all about giving students a unique, hands-on experience in navigating the stock market,” Matamoros remarked. “It’s incredible to see the energy and creativity these young minds bring to the challenge.”

The Competitive Spirit

Over 105 teams of high school students, each made up of 3-4 participants, competed in a high-pressure, real-time stock market simulation. The challenge required them to work together to maximize their portfolios amid fluctuating market conditions. Every “day” in the simulation lasted just 60 seconds, making quick thinking, effective communication, and decision-making under pressure essential. The event tested not only their ability to make financial decisions but also their critical skills in budgeting, financial literacy, and long-term planning.

The Monkey Boys, a team from Peters Township School District, emerged victorious, growing their initial $500,000 portfolio to an impressive $660,000. Their strategic insights and effective teamwork earned them the top honors, along with a $500 prize. The second-place team, Blue Chips from River Valley School District, walked away with $300, while the third-place team, Riverview B from Riverview School District, claimed the $100 prize.

Building Financial Literacy for the Future

This immersive event, more than just a competition, was an educational opportunity. Junior Achievement’s Take Stock in Your Future curriculum helped participants gain valuable insights into stock market trends, investment basics, and financial decision-making. Al DiFranco, President of Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland, who emceed the event, highlighted the real-world skills participants gained. “The challenge was designed to simulate the fast-paced dynamics of stock trading, empowering students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom in a real-world setting,” said DiFranco.

Monica Malik, Vice President of Public Affairs at Citizens, addressed the students during the event, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. “We’re thrilled to continue building on our commitment to financially empower our youth and communities,” said Malik. “The Stock Market Challenge is an exciting, real-life initiative that will provide students with the skills to manage money, save, and invest.”

Celebrating Achievements Beyond the Market

In addition to the top-performing teams, prizes were awarded in several fun categories to recognize creativity and school spirit:

Best Dressed Team: The Mariachis, Deer Lakes School District

Best Team Name: Fresh Princes of Natrona Heights, Highlands School District

Most School Spirit: Cal Trojans, California Area School District

A Grateful Partnership

Junior Achievement’s Stock Market Challenge was made possible by the generous support of dedicated partners, including Citizens, the Presenting Partner, Community Partner, Koppers, Luncheon Partner, FedEx, and Billboard Partner, Lamar. The event highlighted the incredible value of community collaboration, as local businesses, educators, and volunteers helped bring the Stock Market Challenge to life.

Looking Ahead

The event was a resounding success, leaving participants with lasting memories and essential skills that will serve them in their academic and professional futures. “We’re excited to see how today’s participants will apply these lessons in their futures,” Matamoros said, looking ahead to the next chapter of JA’s mission to empower young people through hands-on learning.

For more information about Junior Achievement of Western PA and future events, visit jawesternpa.org.