by Donald Scott II
Band or Home Economics? When I was headed into sixth grade, all students had to choose an elective for the next three years. We either signed up for learning an instrument or learning how to be financially responsible. Over time home economics has been removed from the standard elementary curriculum, but it is now making its way back into schools as financial literacy or entrepreneurship workshops and classes become more common. Back then, I chose band. I learned to play the trumpet, how to control my breathing, how to read sheet music. But what I remember most about choosing band is why I chose band…my mother said she could “teach me how to balance a checkbook at home”.
Donald’s mom Cynthia is a JA Alumnae.
Legacy: Today, I am on the Board of Junior Achievement of Central Texas. I believe in entrepreneurship, and I am especially passionate about teaching lessons on financial literacy and how to manage one’s future relationship with money. When I told my mom that I would be teaching an 8th grade class for 6 weeks as a JA volunteer in Austin, Texas she shared with me that she was in Junior Achievement in middle school. She said in 7th grade she knew she wanted to be a business owner, and that it was during her JA class where she learned the importance of being financially responsible. Because of the amazing influence of a JA volunteer in Chicago many years ago, my mother opened a business, became a pillar of the community, and was confident in her ability to teach her children how to balance a checkbook, giving us the freedom to pursue artistic opportunities in school.
Social Responsibility: Many companies today are using technology to make the world a better place and Junior Achievement’s success at connecting professionals with students enables their corporate relationships to exponentially enhance the experience of the employees and JA volunteers and students. I am proud to work for and serve two organizations that continue to touch lives around the world and give each of us an opportunity to do the same.
I encourage everyone to look for a Junior Achievement office near you. If you have any questions, please feel free to send me a note directly and I’d love to share my personal story and passion about supporting Junior Achievement and the lessons of entrepreneurship and financial literacy.
Donald Scott II serves on the board of directors for JA Central Texas and is extremely active in the community. He is a passionate evangelist of JA because he believes that it is our responsibility to support our future leaders. You can contact him via LinkedIn
