Educator Spotlight: Jill Koch Inspires Students to Think Strategically Through the JA Stock Market Challenge®

Image caption: Students from Cedar Rapids Kennedy High School compete in the JA Stock Market Challenge®, applying strategy, teamwork, and critical thinking in a fast-paced investing simulation.

For Jill Koch, helping students discover what they’re capable of is at the heart of everything she does.

As the Program for Academic and Creative Talent (PACT) Coordinator at Cedar Rapids Kennedy High School, Jill works with students in grades nine through twelve who are eager to challenge themselves and explore opportunities beyond the traditional classroom experience. Her role is centered on helping students grow—not just academically, but in confidence, curiosity, and ambition.

“What I enjoy most about my work is seeing the incredible things my students are capable of achieving and supporting them as they explore their passions,” Jill shares.

One of the ways Jill helps bring those passions to life is through the JA Stock Market Challenge®.

From One Team to a Tradition of Participation

Jill was first introduced to the JA Stock Market Challenge® five years ago when a student asked her to chaperone their team. What started as a single experience quickly grew into a meaningful tradition at Kennedy High School.

“Since then, I’ve had multiple teams participate each year,” she says. “Once students get involved, they’re so engaged and excited that they can’t wait to participate again.”

That excitement speaks to the unique impact of the simulation. In just a short amount of time, students step into a fast-paced, real-world investing environment where they must analyze information, make decisions, and adapt quickly as market conditions change.

Making Investing Real and Relevant

For Jill, one of the most valuable aspects of the JA Stock Market Challenge® is how it connects classroom learning to real-world application.

“Competing in the Stock Market Challenge is always a student favorite,” she explains. “It requires a relatively low time commitment but offers a huge learning opportunity. I love that it helps students see firsthand how current world events can impact the market, making economics and investing tangible and exciting.”

Rather than learning about investing in theory, students experience it firsthand—seeing how news, global events, and market trends influence their decisions and outcomes in real time.

Watching Students Grow Into Strategic Thinkers

One of the most rewarding parts of Jill’s experience has been watching students grow and develop their strategic thinking skills over time.

“It’s been fascinating to watch some of my teams grow in their decision-making and strategy over the four years they participate,” she says. “Early on, their approach is mostly trial and error, but by the time they are seniors, they have a full understanding of the strategies and make thoughtful, informed decisions.”

This progression reflects more than just improved performance—it shows students building confidence, critical thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of financial decision-making.

Preparing Students for Their Financial Futures

At its core, the JA Stock Market Challenge® helps students build skills they will carry with them long after graduation.

“They are important because they help students understand and prepare for future financial decisions,” Jill says. “They give students a hands-on way to learn about investing in a fun and engaging way.”

By combining excitement, strategy, and real-world relevance, the experience leaves a lasting impression on students and helps them see new possibilities for their futures.

Educators like Jill Koch play a critical role in connecting students with opportunities that inspire growth, confidence, and career readiness. Through her leadership and continued participation in the JA Stock Market Challenge®, she is helping students develop the skills and mindset they need to succeed in an increasingly complex financial world.

To register for the Cedar Valley Stock Market Challenge®, visit: * NEW * 2026 Cedar Valley JA Stock Market Challenge® Registration Now Open! | Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

To register for the Corridor JA Stock Market Challenge®, visit: Corridor 2026 JA Stock Market Challenge® Registration Now Open! | Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa