First Citizens Bank is bringing financial literacy education to over 2,780 students and residents in 10 counties in Iowa. Students at 21 schools, including Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Elementary and the surrounding community have free access to Banzai, an award-winning online program and content library that allows users to practice real-world finance. At a time when a solid foundation of practical financial knowledge is critical, these resources will make a huge impact on users.
CGD Elementary Principal Tricia Rosendahl explained how Banzai has been used in the school in the past. “Our 3rd grade teachers have used the online curriculum with their math curriculum,” she stated. “It was new to them last year and they expect they will use it again this year. We have also had people from the bank come and present on different topics throughout the grades.”
Through the Banzai online courses, students try out managing a budget, saving for a goal, and dealing with unexpected financial pitfalls. Teachers are able to easily monitor and grade student progress remotely. Other resources, which include articles, calculators, and personalizable Coach sessions, explain everything from the basics of filing your taxes to how health insurance works. These resources are available at myfcb.teachbanzai.com/wellness.
“Thanks to First Citizens Bank, area students will now have access to a wide array of courses and resources designed to help prepare them for our increasingly complex world,” says Morgan Vandagriff, co-founder of Banzai. “We wouldn't be able to provide these tools without their support.”
“We always appreciate community support and First Citizens is one of those supporters,” added Principal Rosendahl. “If there is a need and we reach out – First Citizens is always there to support us.”
