Educator Spotlight: Becca Carrothers – Creating Classrooms Kids Can't Wait to Enter

Author: Cathy Essick
Financial Literacy
Published: Wednesday, 11 Jun 2025

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Image caption: Becca Carrothers brings real-world learning to life in her 6th-grade classroom at Alburnett Community Schools

In Becca Carrothers’ sixth-grade classroom at Alburnett Community Schools, learning is more than lessons—it’s an experience. Whether it’s hands-on science experiments, classroom potlucks, or hallway high-fives, Becca is on a mission to make every day meaningful and memorable for her students.

Now in her fourth year as an educator, Becca teaches 6th grade science and social studies, and she’s also endorsed in math. But her real superpower lies in her ability to connect—with students, with fellow educators, and with opportunities that help kids thrive. “Creating memorable experiences that kids look forward to… that definitely fills my cup,” she says. “Whether it’s a field trip, a fun lab, or something as simple as a potluck—we’re building a classroom culture they love being part of.”

Her path to the classroom was guided by a heart for service. “I’ve always had a passion for serving others and working with kids,” she explains. “I’m also passionate about coaching, so this was a great spot to pursue my dreams.”

Becca’s relationship with Junior Achievement (JA) started early—she’s a proud JA alum and Prairie High School graduate. “I loved JA as a kid!” she says. “It made a big impact on me then, and it’s been so fun to bring that same experience to my own students.”

She first reconnected with JA while teaching at Prairie Creek, where her class participated in JA BizTown® Mobile. “It was so fun because I was able to see students thrive in a learning environment outside of the classroom,” Becca recalls. “Some of my quieter kids—who often shy away from the spotlight—really came alive when they got to run their own businesses. Watching them step up and lead was such a powerful moment as a teacher.”

This year, Becca added JA It’s My Future® to her curriculum, and the results were just as inspiring. “I had high school students lead different sections, and they did such a great job connecting with the kids,” she says. “My students looked forward to seeing which high schooler was coming in next. And the best part? They still say ‘hi’ in the hallways! That’s one of the perks of being in a K-12 building—you really get to see those relationships grow.”

When asked what she finds most valuable about JA, Becca doesn’t hesitate: “JA does a great job of exposing students to concepts they will 100% see in their future—like preparing for a first job or setting up a savings account. Financial literacy is so important, and I love how JA breaks it down in a kid-friendly way that connects to real life.”

The impact is clear—not only in how students engage with JA lessons, but in how they carry those lessons forward. “JA gives them tools for their futures and the confidence to use them,” she says. “That’s something they’ll take with them long after sixth grade.”

As for something her students might not know about her? “I have an irrational fear of alpacas,” Becca laughs. “They’re like furry, miniature giraffes. I don’t like how they sneak up on you.” A fun fact that likely only adds to the list of reasons students look forward to spending time in her classroom.

From igniting curiosity to building life skills, Becca Carrothers is helping her students step into their futures—one memorable experience at a time.