Here in the Treasure Valley, there boasts stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, but there are also many opportunities for students to cultivate essential life skills. With so many entrepreneurs in the area, financial literacy stands out as a key pillar for future success. In this blog post, we will guide you through some fantastic places in Idaho’s Treasure Valley where students can actively practice and enhance their financial literacy skills.
- Zions Bank’s Financial Literacy Center (Boise): Nestled in Boise, Zions Bank’s Financial Literacy Center is a dedicated space designed to educate individuals of all ages about smart financial practices. Students can participate in workshops, attend seminars, and engage in interactive exhibits that cover everything from budgeting to understanding credit.
- Junior Achievement of Idaho (Meridian): Junior Achievement is a nationwide organization committed to empowering young people to own their economic success. The Idaho chapter, located in Meridian, offers programs that bring volunteers from the community into the classroom to teach students about entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy.
- Idaho Central Credit Union Money Museum (Nampa): Take a trip to Nampa and visit the Idaho Central Credit Union Money Museum. Here, students can explore interactive displays that make learning about money management engaging and enjoyable. From understanding the concept of interest to budgeting exercises, the museum provides hands-on experiences in financial literacy.
- Innovate Academy & Preparatory School (Eagle): A premiere private school in the beautiful city of Eagle, Innovate Academy is dubbed as the first business Preschool – 12 program in Idaho. Financial literacy classes begin in preschool, and the curriculum is built upon year over year. Students create their own small businesses, and even have an annual Shark Tank project at the end of every school year.
- Boise State University’s Financial Literacy Workshops (Boise): Boise State University offers financial literacy workshops and resources for both students and the community. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, including budgeting, credit management, and investment basics. Attending these sessions can equip students with practical skills for managing their finances.
- Library Financial Literacy Resources (Various Locations): Treasure Valley’s public libraries are treasure troves of financial literacy resources. From books and online resources to workshops and guest speakers, libraries in cities like Boise, Meridian, and Nampa actively support financial education. Check with your local library for scheduled events and resources.
- Treasure Valley Family YMCA Youth Programs (Various Locations): The Treasure Valley Family YMCA offers youth programs that incorporate financial literacy education. These programs, often integrated into camps and after-school activities, focus on teaching kids and teens the basics of money management in a fun and interactive way.
- Local Credit Union Educational Initiatives: Many local credit unions in the Treasure Valley region are actively involved in financial education initiatives. Reach out to credit unions in your community to inquire about workshops, seminars, or materials designed to enhance financial literacy skills for students.
- University of Idaho Extension Office (Ada County): The University of Idaho Extension Office in Ada County provides valuable resources on financial education. Students and families can access workshops, webinars, and publications that cover a spectrum of financial topics, offering practical guidance for navigating the world of personal finance.
Navigating the landscape of financial literacy is a vital skill for students, and Treasure Valley provides a wealth of resources to support their journey. From dedicated centers and museums to university workshops and private programs, students in Idaho have access to a rich tapestry of opportunities to sharpen their financial acumen. By actively engaging in these educational hotspots, our young learners can pave the way for a financially secure and empowered future.
