Social+Studies+Resources

Here’s some info about personal financial literacy resources available through the State Employees Credit Union to share with your K-12 Social Studies lead teachers!

SECU has a strong commitment to youth and adult financial education in North Carolina. The credit union uses a variety of programs to assist in its educational efforts and those are outlined below. In addition, SECU partners with groups including the Department of Public Instruction, College Foundation, NC Business Committee for Education, NC Council on Economic Education and local schools to participate in educational initiatives such as College Application Week, FAFSA Day, Students@Work, DECA and FBLA competitions and mentoring/tutoring programs.

FAT CAT The FAT CAT program is designed for elementary age students. Topics covered in this program include careers, savings accounts, and economics among others. The program offers fun activities and games to enhance a child’s creativity. Worksheets and workbooks are available to accompany lessons. Also included is an interactive website with games, videos and worksheets for students. Visit [|www.cufatcats.org] to learn more.

Biz Kid$ Biz Kid$ is an exciting financial education program for middle school students. The program is taught using television shows featuring young entrepreneurs and their financial choices. The show concludes with fun games and activities used to reinforce the concepts discussed. Several topics included in the shows are using credit wisely, saving, budgeting, investing, donating and running a business. Biz Kid$ also includes a website with video clips, program materials and more. Visit [|www.bizkids.com] for more information.

National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) High School Financial Planning Program (HSFPP) The NEFE HSFPP was created for high school students to introduce them to basic financial concepts. This comprehensive program includes a student guide for each participant. The guide is complete with activities to assist in developing the student’s own financial management plan. Several topics included in the student guide are budgeting, careers, checking accounts, investments and credit cards. Each instructor using the program may receive a manual with discussion questions, exams and activities to correspond with each unit. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to develop financial skills before they begin to consider a career or select a college. SECU personnel can assist teachers with obtaining NEFE HSFPP materials, and serve as instructors if needed. To view program materials and other program information, visit [|http://hsfpp.nefe.org].