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Led by instructors John Zimmerman and Fritz Elsen, the Business Academy gives Craig and Parker high school seniors a hands-on introduction to the working world.

Through project-based learning, students partner with local companies on everything from marketing campaigns to business development strategies. The instructors emphasized that this is more than a classroom; it’s a stepping stone for students as they explore future careers and prepare for life beyond high school.

“How can we help kids be successful, not just with textbook knowledge, but with real-world skills?” Zimmerman said. “The real world is where it’s at. Whether you’re teaching social studies or business, bringing real-world application into the classroom is key.”

The program involves daily early-morning sessions beginning at 7:45 a.m., where students spend two hours working on coursework and live business projects. These projects often span the school year, starting in November and wrapping up in May. Students gain experience in marketing, finance, project management and workplace communication.

Past partnerships include projects with Basics Cooperative, where students developed an AI-integrated strategic marketing plan, and SOS Distribution, where they helped build an online presence from the ground up. Another example Zimmerman brought up was a project with the Janesville Business Improvement District focused on increasing youth engagement downtown.

Elsen said there are many soft skills taught that often go overlooked in traditional education.

“These projects are awesome, but our goal really is for kids to learn how to meet deadlines and learn how to multitask,” he said. “Those normal workplace skills that they don’t have yet.”

Guest speakers and local professionals regularly visit the class to share expertise in everything from job interviews to business etiquette.

The Business Academy program currently caps enrollment at 30 students, typically high school seniors who have completed at least one year of business or marketing coursework. Admission is selective, based on academic performance, attendance and a commitment from both the student and their parents to treat the course as a year-long professional commitment.

Businesses interested in working with students can participate in several ways. While long-term mentoring is ideal, the program also welcomes short site visits and guest speakers.

Zimmerman emphasized that even a morning visit to a few local businesses can have a lasting impact.

“We try to be respectful of business owners’ time,” he said. “Sometimes just a couple of hours in the community is enough to spark something for a student.”

“This is all about preparing kids to thrive,” Elsen added. “It’s not just about business. It’s about helping them understand how to navigate the world.”

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