From the 3DE Classroom to the Rose Parade

As the new year began in Pasadena, one float captured national attention—not just for its size or artistry, but for the story it told. The UPS Store’s “Sharing Skills for Success” Rose Parade® float featured the world’s largest animatronic fish and earned top honors for Most Outstanding Artistic Design and Use of Floral and Non-Floral Materials. More importantly, it brought the mission of Junior Achievement to life.

For Junior Achievement of Southern California (JASoCal), the moment marked the close of another meaningful year of partnership with The UPS Store and its Start Small, Grow Big campaign. Together, we showed what happens when education, community, and opportunity move in the same direction.

Students at the Center of the Story

Four outstanding students from Dominguez High School in Compton, a 3DE by Junior Achievement school within the Compton Unified School District, rode aboard the float as it made its way down Colorado Boulevard. These students weren’t just spectators; they represented thousands of JA participants who are building skills in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness through hands-on, real-world learning. Their presence symbolized the heart of this partnership: ensuring young people have access to experiences, mentors, and opportunities that help them see what’s possible for their futures.


“The experience itself was honestly fun and nerve-racking at the same time, but it was so cool to participate in because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I didn’t expect too much from the crowd, but once I got there, I seen how much it meant to the people and it honestly made the whole experience better. The only thing I wish was a little different was that the rain was gone”.

– Lonnie

“Riding in the Rose Parade for the first time was a truly unforgettable experience. I wasn’t really sure what to expect but  the energy of the crowd made everything feel warmer . I was a little anxious at first, but seeing the pure joy on people’s faces especially the little kids excitedly waving quickly turned my nerves into excitement. Although the rain and chill made it uncomfortable, I still truly enjoyed being part of such a special and unforgettable moment.”

– Malonie



“My experience riding the float was honestly super fun I really enjoyed it, Its an experience I’ll never forget,being on it made me feel very happy seeing how many people were smiling and waving at me, One thing that made me the happiest is this grandma and her grandkids were holding up a sign that said “Grandma’s bucket list
“Rose parade ✔️” it honestly warmed my heart and also when I seen so many babies waving at me with their little hands. I just wish the rain wouldn’t have been there I feel like everyone would’ve enjoyed it so much more but truly something unforgettable”.

-Yamilet


“Going from knowing nothing about the Rose Parade to riding on a float that broke a Guinness World Record was truly a once in a lifetime experience. Everything came together really well, from first seeing how much the float still needed to be worked on to the excitement of interacting with the crowd on parade day. Seeing people’s faces light up as they first spot the giant seahorse and waved back at us was easily my favorite part. If anything could be improved, it would be the weather was ready in my scuba gear. Overall, it was an unforgettable opportunity that I’m grateful to have been part of”.

– Melzer

Rain and cold aside, each student described the experience as something they will carry with them long after the parade ended.

What Is 3DE by Junior Achievement?

Dominguez High School is part of 3DE by Junior Achievement, an innovative school model that reimagines how students learn by connecting classroom instruction to real business challenges.

Through 3DE, students:

• Work in teams to solve authentic challenges presented by real companies
• Build critical skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and communication
• Explore careers and industries through sustained exposure to business leaders
• Gain confidence by applying learning in meaningful, practical ways

This model is transforming public education in Southern California, particularly in the Compton Unified District, by making learning relevant, engaging, and directly connected to students’ futures.

A Partnership That Delivers Real Impact

The Rose Parade moment was made possible by the long-standing partnership between Junior Achievement and The UPS Store, powered by the Start Small, Grow Big campaign. This national initiative invites customers at participating The UPS Store locations to donate at checkout, investing directly in the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.

The impact is significant:

• More than $6.7 million donated to Junior Achievement nationwide since 2022
• In 2024 alone, nearly $3 million raised nationally, reaching over 128,000 students

Right Here in Southern California:

• $99,207 raised, impacting nearly 950 local students

In Los Angeles County:

• $35,377 raised, directly supporting two of JASoCal’s most impactful programs, JA Company Program and JA 3DE Schools Initiative.

These investments are helping students across Southern California, including those at Dominguez High School, build the skills and confidence needed to navigate their futures.

We are deeply grateful to The UPS Store, its franchisees, customers, and national team for their continued investment in young people. Because of this partnership, students are building real-world skills, discovering new possibilities, and stepping confidently toward their futures.