Introduction
Snowball Wealth is thrilled to announce the launch of a bilingual financial education program in partnership with Lynwood Unified School District in Los Angeles, starting December 14, 2023. This initiative marks a significant step forward in equipping high school students with vital financial literacy skills in both English and Spanish.
Program Significance and Goals
“As first-generation college graduates, my co-founder Pamela Martinez and I understand the challenges these students face,” said Tanya Menendez, CEO of Snowball Wealth. “Our program aims to provide them with the financial skills we wish we had learned at their age.” The curriculum covers essential topics like banking, budgeting, investing, and detailed college preparation.
Focus on Diverse Financial Needs
The program places special emphasis on informing students about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and assisting them with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). According to Patrick Gittisriboongul, Assistant Superintendent of Lynwood School District, “Our students, many of whom are first-generation college attendees, face unique financial challenges.” This initiative is a critical tool in helping them confidently manage their financial futures.
Comprehensive College Preparation
The college preparation component includes strategies for selecting a school, funding higher education, and exploring opportunities for tuition-free university attendance. This part of the curriculum is designed to make the college experience more accessible and less daunting for students and their families.
Dedicated Educators and Impactful Teaching
Professor Miram Casuso, who works closely with Snowball Wealth, emphasized the importance of financial education for students’ futures. “Our goal is to provide students with financial knowledge that can change their lives,” she stated. Financial education is about more than just numbers; it’s about shaping brighter futures.
Engaging Learning Experiences
To ensure an engaging and comprehensive learning experience, Snowball Wealth is complementing digital resources with in-person workshops. These workshops aim to actively involve students in their financial learning journey, making the process interactive and impactful.
Commitment to Closing the Education Gap
Pamela Martinez, CTO at Snowball Wealth, highlighted the project’s importance. “We’re committed to closing the education gap in the financial sector,” she said. This initiative is crucial in preparing students for successful futures in both academia and beyond.
Invitation to Educators and Expansion Plans
Recognizing the widespread need for financial education, Martinez invites educators to join the program. “We are opening a registration list for teachers interested in implementing this transformative program in their schools,” she announced. Educators can sign up on our website to stay updated on the program’s developments and be notified when it becomes available in their area.
Future Partnerships and Growth
As Snowball Wealth’s bilingual financial education program continues to grow and positively impact students’ lives, the organization aims to expand its network of partners and donors in 2024. Financial institutions and companies interested in collaboration can learn more by visiting snowballwealth.com/partnerships.
Conclusion
Snowball Wealth remains dedicated to empowering students with the financial knowledge they need for a successful future. This program represents a vital step towards closing the financial education gap and ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the tools they need to thrive.