As summer ends and the first bell rings, excitement builds across the South Coast. Whether you are in New Bedford, Fall River, Fairhaven, Dartmouth, Westport, Acushnet, or Marion, the back-to-school season marks a fresh opportunity for students, teachers, and families to grow, learn, and lead.
At Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts, we are proud to support communities across the region by providing programs that build essential life skills, including financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness.
Start Strong with Junior Achievement
This school year, help your student or classroom prepare for the future with these JA resources:
- 💼 JA Workforce Coaching – One-on-one support that helps students across the South Coast explore careers, build confidence, and develop real-world work skills.
- ✏️ Become a JA Coach – Volunteers and educators in towns like Marion and New Bedford can share their experience in classrooms and inspire the next generation.
For Students: Build Habits That Last All Year
- Create a daily routine – Getting up on time and having a set after-school plan helps reduce stress and keep priorities clear.
- Get organized early – Prepare your backpack, supplies, and workspace so you can start day one focused and ready.
- Set realistic goals – Whether it is making new friends or improving in math, goal setting helps build confidence.
For Parents: Make Transitions Easier
- Stay involved – Attend open houses, check in with teachers, and stay connected through school updates.
- Practice budgeting with your child – Use school shopping as a fun, teachable moment. Talk about spending, saving, and needs versus wants.
- Prep together each night – Lay out clothes, review the next day’s plans, and make time to talk about feelings and expectations.
✅ Helpful Tip: HealthyChildren.org Back-to-School Guide
For Teachers: Set the Tone Early
- Create a welcoming classroom – Icebreakers, shared goals, and inclusive activities help students in communities like Dartmouth and Acushnet feel safe and supported.
- Lean into collaboration – Connect with fellow educators to share ideas, resources, and classroom strategies that make a lasting impact.
- Integrate real-world experiences – JA programs bring local professionals into schools, making learning more meaningful and career-focused.
✅ Classroom Ideas: Edutopia Back-to-School Toolkit
Why It Matters for the South Coast
From Westport to Fall River, every student deserves access to education that prepares them not just for tests, but for life. With the support of our local schools, volunteers, and partners, Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts is committed to helping our youth succeed.
This is more than a new school year. It is a new chance to build brighter futures for students throughout the South Coast region.
Get Involved Today
Let’s work together to make this school year the best one yet for our students, families, and teachers.
