Gingis offers free online games that give students in grades six through eight an opportunity to experience high-profile leadership roles. One game in particular, Mr. President, puts students in the role of president of the United States or another country. Students have one week to experience what it would be like to lead a democratic society. This activity puts students in the ultimate of leadership roles, where they make decisions that affect society.
The Oregon Trail is a classic game where students make crucial decisions about survival on their journey West. Popular in the 1990s, this game is available through several free online sites for a new generation of online gamers. Based on the actual Oregon Trail used by settlers, students must decide how long to rest each day, fight off attacks and disease and properly supply their wagon train to make it through to their homestead.
Global Kids connects both middle school and high school students with the world through exchange programs, educational programs and community service programs. It also offers an online leadership training program called Playing 4 Keeps, which trains urban youth to develop games about important world issues. Playing 4 Keeps challenges students to use their love of gaming to effect positive change. This is a nationally recognized program and is available to teachers online.
Young America Saves is an online resource where students can set up and monitor a savings plan. This program encourages students aged 13 and over to save money. It also provides information on what kinds of jobs young students can do, how to evaluate savings plans and how saving small amounts of money can add up over time. Young America Saves encourages kids to learn about personal finances and become leaders who promote saving and investing.