We are thrilled to announce that our MYP1 and MYP2 students in DECA Jr. have officially kicked off their journey with The Stock Market Game (visit stockmarketgame.org for more details)! This exciting online simulation, powered by the SIFMA Foundation, plunges our young learners into the dynamic world of global finance. Armed with a virtual $100,000, our students are diving headfirst into managing their own investment portfolios—buying and selling stocks listed on real-world exchanges like NASDAQ and the NYSE. It’s an incredible opportunity for them to explore economics, investing, and personal finance in a hands-on, real-time environment!

The energy in our DECA Jr. club is electric. Students are buzzing with excitement as they research companies, track market trends, and strategize to grow their portfolios. “It’s like I’m running my own business!” one MYP2 student exclaimed during our last meeting. For this first round, they’re focusing solely on purchasing stocks—learning the ropes of equity markets and getting a feel for what drives value. Next term, we’ll expand their horizons by introducing bonds, followed by mutual funds later on, building their financial acumen step by step. Watching them debate stock picks and cheer each other on has been a highlight of my year as their advisor!

What’s even more exciting is the ripple effect beyond the classroom. Parents have been sharing how The Stock Market Game has sparked new conversations at home. “I finally have something to bond with my teen over!” one parent told me. Teens are eagerly explaining their investment choices over dinner, turning family time into a lively exchange of ideas about money and markets. It’s a fantastic way for parents and students to connect, blending fun with practical life skills.

The benefits don’t stop there. This game isn’t just about numbers—it’s a powerhouse for learning. Students are sharpening their math skills through real-world calculations, boosting critical thinking as they analyze market data, and practicing teamwork as they collaborate on strategies (teams are 1-5 students per portfolio). It ties beautifully into their MYP curriculum, reinforcing concepts from economics, social studies, and even English as they articulate their decisions. Plus, they’re building confidence and financial literacy that will serve them for years to come. 

We can’t wait to see how their portfolios grow and what they discover next term when bonds enter the mix. Stay tuned for updates—and feel free to ask your student about their latest stock pick. You might just be amazed at what they’re cooking up in the world of Wall Street!

Warm regards,

Stephanie Trinidad and Justyna Przychodzen

DECA Jr. Club Advisors