Junior Achievement Named Official Sponsor of Goodwin University Magnet School System’s Business & Administration Pathways; Partnership Launches at Connecticut River Academy
David Daye
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 29, 2026
Junior Achievement Named Official Sponsor of Goodwin University Magnet School System’s Business & Administration Pathways; Partnership Launches at Connecticut River Academy
East Hartford, CT — Goodwin University Magnet School System (GUMSS) announced today a landmark partnership with Junior Achievement of Southwest New England (JA), establishing JA as the official sponsor of the district’s Business and Administration Pathways, beginning with Connecticut River Academy at Goodwin University (CTRA). This collaboration brings nationally recognized financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness programming directly into classrooms, expanding real-world learning opportunities for students across the district.
Through this partnership, students will gain access to JA’s full suite of hands-on, experiential learning programs, including JA Finance Park®, JA BizTown®, career exploration modules, mentorship from industry professionals, and specialized curriculum aligned to Connecticut’s career-connected learning priorities.
“This partnership is a competitive advantage for our students and families,” said Dr. Salvatore Menzo, Superintendent of Goodwin University Magnet School System. “Junior Achievement brings world-class programming that elevates students' understanding of business, financial management, and the pathways that lead to meaningful careers. Their sponsorship strengthens our commitment to preparing students for success in college, career, and life, which aligns with our mission, vision, and core values.”
Junior Achievement’s sponsorship will expand our innovative programming through curriculum integration, educator training, and district-wide pathway development and enhancements, ensuring students experience consistent, high-quality instruction in business, management, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy.
“We are proud to deepen our relationship with Goodwin University Magnet School System and Connecticut River Academy,” said Jeremy Race, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of Southwest New England.
“Together, we are empowering students with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their futures. JA’s mission aligns perfectly with GUMSS’s vision for career connected learning.”
The partnership also enhances GUMSS’s regional workforce development efforts by connecting students with local employers, volunteer mentors, and community partners who support career exploration and skill development.
The collaboration will roll out during the 2026–27 school year, with expanded programming planned across all GUMSS schools and programs.
About Junior Achievement of Southwest New England Junior Achievement is the world’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers, and provide relevant, hands-on experience that gives students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. Today, JA reaches more than 3.3 million students per year in over 100 markets across the United States, with an additional 5.2 million students served by operations in 100 other countries worldwide. Visit: https://swne.ja.org
About Goodwin University Magnet School System:
Established in 2020 as a local education agency, Goodwin University Magnet School System is an educational partner for life. From pre-K through high school, we are by your side at every age and every stage, coordinating our comprehensive resources through flexible pathways tailored to your student’s unique educational needs. With specialized teachers, child development experts, and the latest education technologies, we form a team with you and your student to personalize their experience and make changes that will lead to success in their lifelong learning. Plus, as part of our Magnet School System, your child can earn free, transferable college credits making tuition more affordable as they continue their education from undergrad through postgraduate degree. To learn more about Goodwin University Magnet School System, please visit www.goodwinmagnetsystem.org.
Thanks,
David
David S. Daye
Chief Operating Officer
Goodwin University Magnet School System
One Riverside Drive | East Hartford, CT 06118
P: 860-913-2028 C: 860-310-9632
Learn more about our award winning PreK – 12 system of schools and program by visiting www.goodwinmagnetsystem.org.
We are pleased to offer a half-day program for high school seniors at https://www.goodwin.edu/landingpages/ecamp-half-day.
Also, learn more about our award winning schools at www.ctriveracademy.org (Grades 6-12) and www.riversidemagnetschool.org (Preschool-Grade 5).