JA’s success relies heavily on educators and their willingness to embrace the program and invite volunteers into their classrooms to work with students.

JA’s 2018 Educator of the Year, Dan Walter, is a social studies teacher at West Early College who has enthusiastically embraced everything JA has to offer his students. In addition to welcoming JA volunteers into his classroom, Dan’s students have participated in JA Finance Park, the JA Stock Market Challenge, and Denver Startup Week’s Youth Pass. In fact, a team of students from Dan’s class took home the trophy at the 2017 JA Stock Market Challenge!

“Dan makes learning about money, jobs and business ownership fun and relevant for his students. His confidence and enthusiasm are contagious. He truly wants the best for each and every student and does what it takes to ensure their success,” shared a JA staff member.