Independent Study Vice Principal Andrea Leuschen Interviewed by CBS13
Spotted: Visions on the news! Independent Study Academy Vice Principal Andrea Leuschen was interviewed by CBS13 to promote the Sacramento Stock Market Challenge this March! In partnership with Junior Achievement Sacramento, Andrea and Visions’ Future Business Leaders Club will be participating in the challenge to gain real-world experience in financial literacy and decision-making. The Stock Market Challenge helps students develop their communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, and empowers them to envision a brighter future based on learned life skills.
“As an educator, I’ve seen firsthand how the Stock Market Challenge engages students in ways the traditional classroom setting can’t,” Andrea shares. “This is a chance for students to experience the thrill of decision-making in a fast-paced, competitive environment while learning financial concepts that they’ll carry with them for life.”
During her interview, Andrea represented Visions (peep the shirt and background!) and the great work our Future Business Leaders Club does with Junior Achievement Sacramento. As a nonclassroom-based school with flexibility and choice for our students, working with partners like Junior Achievement Sacramento is a great way for students to maximize their personalized education and experience these unique opportunities.
Visions-preneurs in the Making!
Andrea and the Future Business Leaders Club also participated in the 2nd Annual Business Pitch and Program Showcase. They presented a five minute business pitch about their fictional company, Love Lung, which creates customizable inhaler covers. The pitch was observed by a panel of judges, including the mayor of Citrus Heights. The club was up against some veteran schools, but that didn’t stop them from coming in 3rd place out of 12 teams!
“First, thank you to the judges who took time to listen to the students’ pitch,” Andrea shares about the competition. “And, special thanks to the National Association of Women Business Owners and Junior Achievement for providing our students a chance to compete. The students worked on their presentation virtually and Saturday was the first time they came together as a group. They showed maturity and confidence as they delivered their presentation. Words cannot express how proud I am of our students.”
Andrea would like to thank Independent Study Academy Principal Shannon Alward for her support in Andrea pursuing something that she loves, as well as Associate Director of Equity & Student Engagement Ron Thomas for giving her guidance in running a student club and allowing her to have a vision.
“When Andrea first met with me and shared her vision for the Future Business Leaders Club, I was immediately impressed with her passion and determination,” shares Ron. “She is a true role model and mentor for all members of the club. I look forward to all the wonderful things that this club will accomplish.”
Congratulations Andrea and our future leaders on your success!
