Everwise Foundation sponsors JA BizTown experience for Mohawk Trails Elementary fifth graders

Submitted

The Carmel Education Foundation (CEF) announces a generous grant from the Everwise Foundation supporting CEF’s Achieve Program and underwriting the JA BizTown experience for fifth graders at Mohawk Trails Elementary School and one additional Carmel Clay Schools elementary school.

Representatives from Everwise Credit Union joined students and educators at JA BizTown on Friday, Dec. 5, as Mohawk Trails became the first school in Carmel Clay Schools to participate in JA BizTown this academic year.

JA BizTown is a capstone learning experience that brings economics, business, civic responsibility, and real-world decision-making to life. Through hands-on roles within a simulated town, students learn about personal finance, teamwork, problem-solving, and the value of community engagement.

CEF’s commitment to equitable access

As part of CEF’s Achieve Program, every fifth grader in Carmel Clay Schools has the opportunity to participate in JA BizTown. CEF provides funding for educator training, transportation, and student resources, ensuring equitable access across all 11 CCS elementary schools.

“JA BizTown is one of the most memorable days of fifth grade,” CEF CEO Jennifer Penix said. “It gives students an authentic connection between what they learn in school and what they’ll apply in life. CEF is committed to making this opportunity available to every student, and we simply cannot do that without the support of committed partners like Everwise Credit Union and the Everwise Foundation. Their investment helps us ensure that cost is never a barrier to learning.”

A strong community partnership

Everwise Credit Union and the Everwise Foundation have a longstanding commitment to community involvement, youth financial literacy, and investment in student learning. Their support for JA BizTown reflects a shared belief that early, hands-on financial education prepares young people for long-term success.

“Seeing Mohawk Trails students so engaged at JA BizTown reminded us why partnerships like this matter,” said Lindsey Wirtz, Business Development at Everwise Credit Union. “Everwise and the Everwise Foundation are committed to strengthening our communities, and that starts with investing in young people. We are proud to support the Carmel Education Foundation’s efforts to make JA BizTown accessible across Carmel Clay Schools and to help students build skills that will serve them for life.”

A day of real-world learning

During the Dec. 5 visit, Everwise team members observed students managing storefronts, making business decisions, serving customers, and working together to keep the town’s economy running smoothly. They also had the chance to connect with students serving in finance-related roles during the day.