COLUMBUS — On May 29, students from East Liverpool High School joined Junior Achievement of Eastern Ohio (JAEO) at the Ohio Statehouse to advocate for continued funding through House Bill 96, emphasizing the program’s role in preparing Ohio’s future workforce.

Michele Merkel, president of JAEO, provided testimony before Senate Finance Committee members including Chair Jerry Cirino, Vice Chair Al Cutrona, and Ranking Member Paula Hicks-Hudson, highlighting Junior Achievement as a key driver of economic development across the region.

“Junior Achievement isn’t just education–it’s workforce development,” Merkel shared. “It provides students with the tools and confidence to become future business leaders and active contributors to Ohio’s economy.”

Representing East Liverpool City Schools were Robert Nizer, Amanda Estell, and ELHS students Deonte Slappy and Hunter Estell, who delivered powerful testimonies detailing how JA has shaped their educational journeys and career aspirations.

Deonte and Hunter spoke about their involvement in the JA Titan Challenge at Youngstown State University and their upcoming opportunity to compete nationally at JA USA Future Bound at Georgia State University in Atlanta.

“JA taught me that I can build my own company. It’s been life-changing,” said Deonte Slappy.

“It changed how I see my future… now I’m considering starting a business of my own,” added Hunter Estell.

These student stories provided compelling insight into the real-world impact of JA programs, reinforcing the need for continued legislative support.

East Liverpool City Schools is proud of these students for representing the district with excellence and heart and is grateful for Junior Achievement’s continued investment in our youth.