DC Public Schools Announces Expansion of Partnership with Junior Achievement of Greater Washington

(WASHINGTON, DC) - DC Public Schools (DCPS) and Junior Achievement of Greater Washington (JAGW) announced plans to deepen their ongoing partnership by bringing Ballou High School on board as a 3DE school site for School Year 2026-2027. The announcement happened in conjunction with a 3DE Market Expo hosted at the school Thursday afternoon.

Junior Achievement's 3DE learning model aims to help high school students develop competencies and strengthen core academic skills through a guided exploration of authentic business-case challenges.

To support the expansion of this partnership, DCPS is investing an additional $125,000. To complement DCPS' financial investment, JAGW will provide staffing support, including a Case Experience Director to lead the launch and execution of the 3DE experience, as well as a School Director who will work alongside Ballou's instructional staff to support teachers in integrating the 3DE instructional framework.

"As Financial Literacy Month concludes, we are proud to celebrate the continued investment in experiential learning opportunities for scholars across DCPS," said DCPS Chancellor Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee. "Through 3DE, Ballou's future entrepreneurs will apply academic concepts like accounting, business strategy, and marketing in ways that prepare them for what's next-college and career success."

"We believe Ballou is the strongest fit for this next phase of our work with DCPS," said Dr. Monica Goldson, president and CEO of JAGW. "We are excited to support students with learning experiences that build their confidence, expose them to industry experts, and strengthen the district's pathways."

The Market Expo served as a capstone for two dozen 11th-grade students who showcased the businesses they developed this school year. The expo featured student-run ventures ranging from cosmetics, jewelry, and artwork to apparel, photography, and baked goods. Teams also demonstrated their commitment to creating businesses that positively impact society, centering themes such as mental health awareness, sustainability, cultural pride, and community support.

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