Preparing students for the future is something that every school administration, staff and faculty strives for. At Jonesboro Hodge High School that desire became a reality this past week in a couple of unique, interesting and educational ways.  

Mrs. Carpenter’s class was all smiles as they received their first “paychecks”! At the beginning of the year each student applied and interviewed for a classroom job like Clerk, Custodian, or Banker. After being hired they signed job contracts and received on-the-job training in their individual positions.

They have worked hard and now it has paid off!

The students got paid in “classroom currency, which were simulated checks that included having taxes withheld. With this they will play bills like workplace rent, utilities, and groceries. They also filled out deposit slips, deposited their checks into the Central Classroom Bank and updated their bank logs. This simulation will continue throughout the year and reflect real-world conditions to prepare them for independent life after high school.

JHHS students also learned about what awaits them at college. Freshman Academy students visited LA Tech University this past week to learn more about what it takes to get into college and the opportunities it brings. Perhaps just as important is being taught to prepare now for opportunity later.

One area that was really interesting to the 9th graders was the La Tech Tenant Ring. This is an area that contains a large circle with spoke like words that outlines the 12 tenets important in the pursuit of excellence – Confidence, Excellence, Commitment, Knowledge, Integrity, Respect, Leadership, Loyalty, Enthusiasm, Caring, Hope and Pride.