NEWS RELEASE
In January, the Centennial FBLA chapter decided to partner with Financial Beginnings/Operation HOPE a local non-profit organization that strives to expand economic education and empowerment through educational programs that incorporate all aspects of personal finance. Through these educational programs, the organizations wish to spread financial literacy in hopes of creating more financially responsible individuals. Several FBLA members participated in a cooperate training to become official Financial Beginning/Operation HOPE volunteers.
Over the past several weeks, Centennial High School FBLA members have been educating elementary and middle students within the Centennial district on the subject of financial literacy. During the presentation approximately 200 students were taught; budgeting, investing, credit, and banking. Teachers responded with positive comments about the enthusiasm of the high school educators, “They were extremely professional, on-time and very eager to teach!” said middle school teacher Shane Fisher. “I really liked the teachers because there were so many things I could relate to, it made it all more enjoyable” explained a local middle school student. Through the various activities implemented, the students were very eager to learn about creating a budget, the dangers of a credit card, and even simple investing. Students were ecstatic at the opportunity and eagerly participated in all the activities. “The presentations were very educational and students seemed to love the activities they implemented, an overall very enjoyable experience” said an enlightened Eric Perkins, elementary school teacher. “I’m extremely proud of the members, not only have they learned financial literacy concepts, they have learned teamwork, organization, scheduling, and time management…not to mention I think a few of them might have caught the teaching bug,” said Adriann Hardin FBLA adviser.
In addition to educating elementary and middle school students, FBLA members have also arranged for the Financial Beginnings/Operation HOPE business volunteers to come in and speak to the math, economics, and business classes at the high school. Overall it has been an amazing partnership for the school district and the non-profit organization. If you have any additional questions, please contact Adriann Hardin at 503.762.6180 or via email at: adriann_hardin@centennial.k12.or.us
