Charles Schwab and JA partnered with Harmony School of Science this fall to bring the full scope of Elementary school programs to a new group of students. Schwab volunteers taught the JA financial literacy curriculum, one class a week for five weeks of lessons for over 400 kindergarten to 5th-grade students.
"It is amazing to have experts in the world of finance come and teach financial courses to our students. The Charles Schwab volunteers are so excited and energetic to teach, and that excitement transfers to the students," said Waylon Stengler, school principal.
Students in 3rd-grade class, taught by Schwab volunteer, Conor Brantley, are learning the choices people have with money, recognizing methods of payment, examining the importance of money to a city and its citizens, and describing how entrepreneurial businesses meet the needs and wants of citizens. When asked why he enjoys volunteering teaching JA, he stated his love for being a positive influence on students and moving them to a successful future by teaching them personal finance and economics.
"I grew up in a fairly low-income household, and I could have really used some of the skills that we teach while I was growing up," said Brantley, Digital Product Manager at Charles Schwab. "The knowledge that we pass to these children through the JA lessons would have helped me greatly in some of my struggles, and I am eager to help people avoid some of the pitfalls that come from a lack of financial literacy. "
If you would like more information about bringing JA to your child's school or sponsoring a school near your workplace, contact Suzannah Gravatt, JA Program Manager, for more information at suzannah@jacentex.org.
