Biz(iness)Town

The Perkins 5th graders were able to have the experience of a lifetime at Junior Achievement’s “BizTown” located near the corner of 63rd Street and Grand Ave. BizTown is a makeshift city that is equipped with a bank, post office, realty company, radio DJ, along with a district attorney and mayor who are the top two in charge. The concept is for students to become familiar with the United States’ free enterprise system. Before coming to BizTown, the students spent the week preparing by learning how to properly write checks, manage a check book, cash paychecks, how to invest in stock, and the best ways to manage work with free time. Each student was given a specific job to carry out for the day.

Sam Speck, the BizTown radio DJ better know as “Big S,” was delighted at the real world experience he received from the field trip. “This was the best field trip I have ever been on. I felt like I was an adult, but it was fun!” Many other students could be seen smiling as they performed their civic duties for the day. Even the restaurant workers who had to clean up after everyone else were pleased with their position and opportunity to contribute to the community. Mackenzie Gutierrez, CEO of the restaurant and personal assistant to Mrs. Maher stated her views on the food industry. “It’s tough work, but seeing everyone happy with our service is worth it!”

No student had one negative thing to say, except the occasional expression of frustration after losing a raffle, missing the hole in putt-putt, or failing to score any points in bags. These were just three of the entertainment options the students could choose from when they were on their lunch or afternoon break. They could also purchase various souvenirs from the stores and earn minutes towards playing the Nintendo Wii if they so desired. An enormous thank you must be given to the parents and other volunteers who spent their day helping BizTown be the best experience it can be for the students. The day would have been nonexistent without the help of our volunteers!