LARGO, Fla. – The iconic Finance Park at the Gus A. Stavros Institute in Largo has a new resident as the YMCA’s of Greater St. Petersburg and YMCA of the Suncoast joined the Pinellas Education Foundation in cutting the ribbon on their new storefront today. The YMCA’s sponsorship of the Pinellas Education Foundation’s Finance Park program represents a ten year commitment to the program totaling $50,000.
Established by the Pinellas Education Foundation two decades ago, Finance Park was created by the Pinellas Education Foundation in response to demand for an interactive, real-world simulation for eighth-grade financial learning. The program was modeled after the successful Enterprise Village for fifth grade students, launched a decade earlier. Finance Park serves 10,000 students annually, with an emphasis on applying math and decision-making skills to manage a household budget. Students are randomly assigned life profiles including marital status, children/dependents, and household income which create the framework for powerful lessons in financial literacy. Students are also encouraged to explore industry-specific career information available at the facility, inspiring the eighth-grade students to explore options for their future.
The new YMCA Finance Park facility will provide students information about making sound healthy lifestyle choices within the framework of a well-rounded life and financial plan. “We are thrilled to partner in this manner, enhancing our impact on middle school students through financial literacy and health,” said David Jezek, President/CEO of the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.
“Helping every child live to their fullest God-given potential is a goal of the YMCA of the Suncoast. Our strategic plan identifies middle school youth as a priority. This exciting partnership is an important step in helping us accomplish our goals.”, says G. Scott Goyer, President/CEO of the YMCA of the Suncoast.
According to Dr. Stacy Baier, President of the Pinellas Education Foundation, “We are excited to partner with the YMCA as they join the community of Tampa Bay Area businesses represented in Finance Park. The day that our students spend here will positively impact our students for the rest of their lives.”
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About The Pinellas Education Foundation
The Pinellas Education Foundation is an independent, non-governmental not-for-profit established in 1986. The Foundation’s mission is to enhance and improve educational opportunities in Pinellas County Schools. Well known Pinellas Education Foundation programs include: Enterprise Village, Finance Park, Take Stock in Children Scholarships, Youth Connect and Teacher Classroom Grants.
About Pinellas County Schools
Pinellas County Schools is the eighth largest school district in Florida and 26th largest in the nation, serving more than 101,000 pre-kindergarten – 12 students at 132 schools. With more than 17,000 employees, the school district is the largest employer in the county. The vision of Pinellas County Schools is 100% Student Success. We encourage parents, business leaders and community members to partner with us in our mission to educate and prepare each student for college, career and life.