Sixth-graders from Gilmer County embarked on an exciting educational journey to the JA Discovery Center of Greater Dalton, immersing themselves in the vibrant world of JA BizTown. This innovative program, designed specifically for sixth graders by Junior Achievement, offers a unique blend of hands-on learning and real-world experiences, allowing students to step into the shoes of professionals, collaborate as a team, explore local governance, and gain insights into the mechanics of an economy, all while having fun!

But the journey doesn't begin with the arrival of the school bus—it starts in the classroom, guided by passionate educators like Aimee Milton, Ed.S., a sixth-grade social studies teacher at Clear Creek Middle School. Aimee diligently prepared her students for their upcoming adventure by delving into the JA curriculum, covering essential topics from business loans to taxes, supply and demand dynamics, resume building, how to interview for a job, and beyond.

Infusing her lessons with real-world examples, Aimee sparked her students' curiosity and fostered connections to the world around them. From using Krispy Kreme as an example to grasp the concept of sales tax to igniting discussions that extended far beyond the classroom walls. Aimee shared, "I asked the students when they buy a doughnut from Krispy Kreme, 'Was it $3 or $3.10?' Students would say, 'Ohh!' They were making the connection from the lesson to the real world." Aimee's dedication to making learning engaging and relevant paid off. Students even started using Krispy Kreme as an example when asking questions during the lesson.

As the date approached for Clear Creek Middle School's visit to the JA Discovery Center of Greater Dalton, Amy couldn't resist sharing the heartwarming story of Krispy Kreme's role in their journey with the Greater Dalton JA staff. The response was nothing short of spectacular. Rosa Cuna, Director of JA Discovery Center Experience, reached out to their local Krispy Kreme, and the result was a delightful surprise—a generous donation of enough doughnuts to treat every student.

On Monday, April 22, 2024, the excitement among the sixth-grade students from Clear Creek Middle School was palpable. The students were pleasantly surprised by the unexpected treat from Krispy Kreme. These students weren't just enjoying a sweet indulgence; they were also digesting vital lessons in financial literacy and civic responsibility. Through the immersive experience provided by Junior Achievement of Georgia and the dedication of educators like Aimee Milton, these students were equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the modern economy, all while having a blast.