Careers and Financial Literacy

June 5, 2020: School is out, but learning continues. Bridgehampton Middle School students spent time on their computers in 2 virtual events—both live and one with Long Island business leaders. What they learned opened their eyes to diverse careers, financial aspects of entry-level and experienced jobs, in addition to lessons in budgeting, saving money and dealing with expenses. With videos off, these students experienced a 21st century phenomenon in education.

Equity First Foundation (EFF) created this program to provide the Bridgehampton Middle School students with a “real-world” learning opportunity, focusing on careers and financial education. In the morning, students attended 3 virtual sessions by choosing the career clusters from the Holland Code. Panels of two business representatives explained their backgrounds, qualifications and future of their industries. Students were able to learn about their careers and financial investment/outcome of each. They were able to ask questions by raising their virtual hands during each break-out room session. Career Summaries about each presenter were accessed by students through an email upload by the school.

The following companies participated in this worthwhile event:

CAREER CLUSTER FIRST NAME LAST NAME COMPANY
Artistic Tiffany Castillo Trademark Talent NY
Artistic Liam Gargiulo Every Venue Entertainment
Conventional Mujen Engelman M & T Bank
Conventional Joseph Bonanno JetDirect Mortgage
Enterprising Cindy Barrow Mary Kay
Enterprising Horace R. Barrow Nest Seekers International
Investigative Ron Strauss Tree Believers, Inc.
Investigative Phil Sottile Intelligent Fitness
Realistic Sal Ferrara Electrical Training Center
Realistic Joe Magliulo Costello’s Ace Hardware
Social Kershel Anthony This is my S.W.A.G. Foundation
Social Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia LDC Strategies

In the afternoon, the students had the choice of a number of financial literacy lessons and worked in teams in break-out rooms. These lessons included: becoming an informed shopper with 2 projects on purchasing plants and pretzels, a project about saving for a donation to a food pantry, and creating a pretend budget for the summer based on several types of income and expenses.

EFF commends the vision of administrators and educators from the Bridgehampton School District in offering these “real life” virtual lessons and understanding the opportunity these middle school students had during these challenging education times. Without the teamwork, time and dedication of Ryan Barker, the middle and elementary school guidance counselor, this event would not have been possible.

No one knows what the future will bring, but one thing is clear—these middle school students are capable, able and excited to learn, and technology has created a new learning modality.

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EFF provides financial education, literacy and best practices at low or no cost to individuals and groups from primary school through retirement and including life events.

If you would like more information about this topic or to participate in programs/events, please contact: Rhonda Klch at 631-714-4822x102, rhonda@equityfirstfoundation.org or Lisa Strahs-Lorenc at 631-714-4822x110 or lisa@equityfirstfoundation.org.