Transforming Education: The 3DE Program Blends Business with Financial Literacy in Milwaukee

Introduction

In Milwaukee, two high schools are pioneering a new educational model that merges real-world business challenges with classroom learning. The 3DE (3D Education) program allows students at Bay View High School and Marshall High School to engage directly with business executives, promoting financial literacy and practical problem-solving skills.

What is the 3DE Program?

3DE is an innovative curriculum designed to immerse high school students in real-life scenarios presented by local business leaders. Launched by Junior Achievement of Wisconsin, this program focuses on transforming traditional education by integrating corporate case studies into lessons.

The Backstory

In October 2023, Laura Rudolph, an executive at Mortenson Construction, took a step away from her projects to connect with students at Bay View High School. The goal? To challenge them with a business-related problem, demonstrating how education can directly impact future careers.

“They are helping Mortenson solve a problem,” Rudolph explained, referring to the insights students offered on potential drone investments.

Breaking the Mold: Curriculum Innovation

Since the implementation of 3DE, classes have shifted from conventional textbooks to collaborative, hands-on projects. Teachers connect corporate challenges to everyday lesson plans, fostering engagement and relevance in subjects like math, science, and social studies.

Teacher Perspectives on 3DE

Initial hesitations were common among educators. Principal Jeffery Gaddis admitted, “When we were first introduced to 3DE, we were kind of ‘voluntold’.” However, both teachers and students have found value in this new approach, which emphasizes urgency and importance.

Bob Landwehr, a retired GE employee and 3DE volunteer, mentors students by guiding them through research for their presentations. “Students learn there is no right or wrong answer; they must analyze data and make recommendations,” he noted.

Financial Literacy: A Key Component

One of the standout features of 3DE is its strong emphasis on financial literacy. Braelyn Bryant, now a junior, initially skeptical, reflected on how the program has reshaped his understanding of money management.

“Now when I get money, I actually think — what part of this do I need to save?”

Inspired by the lessons, Bryant is even developing an app that showcases hidden Milwaukee landmarks, aiming to launch his own business.

The Impact of Real-World Learning

Betsy McGinnity, the 3DE director at Bay View, highlighted the unique impact of having industry professionals interact directly with students. “The message just lands differently when you have someone from the field telling you about their experiences.”

Broadening Horizons: 3DE and Beyond

The 3DE program has made strides in improving student engagement across the country. Junior Achievement reports that the 3DE model has been implemented in over 50 schools nationwide, tackling various issues presented by companies like Arby’s, AT&T, and Delta Air Lines. It has resulted in reduced absenteeism and improved proficiency in math and reading.

Principal Gaddis on the Evolution of Learning

As more businesses participate, Gaddis has witnessed a transformation in student engagement. “Kids are more engaged now with 3DE,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among peers.

Teacher Marshall Martin added that it often takes several challenges for the students to grasp the program’s collaborative spirit fully. “You start to see the lightbulb go off — they realize we have to work together,” he said.

Conclusion

The 3DE program in Milwaukee is redefining education by integrating business insights with classroom learning. By fostering financial literacy and empowering students, educators and executives are working together to inspire the next generation of leaders.

The collaborative effort not only equips students with vital skills but also serves to shake the status quo, paving the way for a more engaged and knowledgeable community.

“We can’t keep doing the same thing and expect different results,” McGinnity remarked, highlighting the need for innovative approaches in education.

This program showcases how combining education with real-world business challenges can prepare students for future opportunities, ultimately shaping a brighter future for the community.