DENVER -
Stress can be one of life’s greatest teachers. Few things rival the stress of being on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Douglas County School District students from six different schools experienced a simulated stock market that tested their ability to perform under pressure.
“I can perform under pressure, I’d like to say,” said Douglas County High School Senior Prajeet Singh. He was part of 24 Douglas County School District students that teamed up in groups to make trades, analyze trends, and sift through hot tips and press releases.
The Junior Achievement Stock Market Challenge took place November 8 and 9 at the Cable Center at the University of Denver.
“They get to experience the bull market, the bear market, and the drama and the energy that comes with it,” said Junior Achievement Director of Communications Chris Silberman. “Not only do they get to experience the financial literacy lessons that come with this, but they’re also practicing team building skills.”
“Your voice isn’t the most important, and somebody else’s isn’t the most important either,” said Singh.
To prepare for the challenge, each class participated in two 45-minute lessons facilitated by their teacher and a Junior Achievement volunteer.
“I hope they walk away with a better understanding of investing and the types of situations in life that can actually affect investments,” said Chad Bryan, a business and technology teacher at Castle View.
Silberman added that “Once they become adults and they’re in the workforce, working in a high-intensity stressful situation is inevitable.”
Rock Canyon finished 1st and 2nd place in the second day’s midday session. 295 students from across the district competed in the challenge. There will be another challenge in February.