Junior Achievement of North Florida (JANFL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy, recently hosted a highly successful Stock Market Challenge at EverBank Stadium. The event brought together more than 170 students from 10 local high schools for a day of financial education and friendly competition.
The Second Annual JA Stock Market Challenge held Nov. 8 provided students with the special opportunity to experience the fast-paced world of stock trading. The unique setting of EverBank’s Gallagher Suites added an extra layer of excitement to the event, allowing young minds to engage in financial simulations in the atmosphere of a professional sports arena. The event was not only educational but also aimed at fostering teamwork, critical thinking and decision-making skills.
The title sponsor, EverBank, played a crucial role in making the event possible, contributing to the success of the Stock Market Challenge and reinforcing their commitment to financial literacy and education in the community.
Special participants were Brian Sexton, the Voice of the Jaguars; Dana Kriznar, interim superintendent of Duval County Public Schools; Curt Cunkle, president of Florida Banking at EverBank; and Jaxson de Ville, Jacksonville Jaguars Mascot.
Leading up to the Stock Market Challenge, more than 700 students participated in JA’s Take Stock in Your Future program sponsored by TD Bank, which introduces students to concepts about how the stock market works and the impact of current events on the stock market.
The schools that participated include Bartram Trail High School, Duncan U. Fletcher High School, Englewood High School, Jean Ribault High School, KIPP Bold City High School, Samuel W. Wolfson High School, Mandarin High School, Baldwin Senior High School, Paxon School for Advanced Studies and Stanton College Preparatory School.
After intense rounds of trading, team Market Mavericks from Englewood High School emerged as the champion, showcasing strategic acumen and financial skills. Team DCSO from Bartram Trail High School claimed the second-place position, and team Slime from KIPP Bold City High School secured a commendable third place.
“The Stock Market Challenge is a testament to the power of experiential learning in shaping the future leaders of our community,” said Tiffany Guthrie, VP of Programs & Partnerships at Junior Achievement of North Florida. “We are immensely grateful to our sponsors for their unwavering support in empowering these students with JA programs. Congratulations to all the participating schools, especially the Market Mavericks, for their outstanding performance.”
This event not only provided a platform for friendly competition but also reinforced Junior Achievement of North Florida's commitment to equipping young minds with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving economic landscape.
JA of North Florida plans to host the Stock Market Challenge in the fall of 2024. The enthusiasm generated by this year's event has sparked interest from both corporations and schools eager to participate; for inquiries or to express interest, contact Stephanie Saman at ssaman@janfl.org. For more information about JANFL and their programs, go to janfl.org.
