JA Inspire- Full Curriculum Overview

JA Inspire is more than a Career Exploration Fair, it brings together the business community and local middle schools and is designed to help launch these students into their futures: high school, college, and careers beyond. The program consists of three segments: 1) in-class sessions presented by the classroom teacher; 2) the hands-on JA Inspire expo; and 3) an in-class debrief. During the JA Inspire expo, students participate in hands-on activities, often using equipment or tools used on a job. The multi-hour experience is configurable to align with local industry, education, and career opportunities.

If you have a question on how to access the curriculum, please contact Fiametta Elie, Work-Based Learning Program Manager at fiametta.elie@ja.org or 401-331-3850 ext. 17

Session One: Careers and Personality - Students are introduced to the JA Inspire program and take a career interest inventory to discover what jobs suit their interests.

Session Two: Industry Research - Students are introduced to the top industries in the country including Rhode Island’s high-growth/high-demand industries.

Session Three: Exploring Careers - Students will explore and research careers that match their personalities.

Session Four: Do You Have the Skills - Students need to know the skills and education requirements to be successful at a job. Students also prepare for the JA Inspire Career Exploration Fair.

Session Five: JA Inspire Career Exploration Fair - Students engage with business volunteers to learn about skills that will be in demand when they graduate. Students participate in hands-on activities, often using actual equipment or tools the businesses’ employees use on the job.

Session Six: Reflection- Students reflect on what they have learned and identify next steps to further define their academic choices and career paths.