Local Bank Makes Financial Literacy Program Free for Classrooms

Originally posted on starherald.com

“Banzai is a web-based financial literacy program. Kids get their own accounts, and they work through assignments that are based on real life,” Morgan Vandagriff, co-founder of Banzai, said. “But because First National Bank North Platte is sponsoring it, local schools get it for free. More than ever, it’s important that kids develop sound financial skills to prepare them for the real world, and First National Bank North Platte realizes that and they’re doing something about it.”

Banzai is an interactive, online program supplemented by printed workbooks which aligns with state curriculum requirements for personal finance education. It has become the largest program of its kind, servicing more than 14,000 teachers in all 50 states.

First National Bank North Platte has offered time, money, industry experience, and a variety of bank resources to help Scottsbluff schools teach personal finance in the classroom. Students using the program are exposed to real-life scenarios where they learn to pay bills and balance a budget — but it’s not always easy. Students must learn to manage unexpected expenses such as parking tickets, interest charges and overdraft fees. The educational program also introduces students to auto loans, bank statements, entertainment costs, savings and more.

“Too often students get out of school and they just aren’t ready for the financial roller coasters life can give us,” Vandagriff said. “Banzai teaches students to navigate those twists and turns and come out on top. We’re excited to work with First National Bank North Platte to improve financial literacy in Scottsbluff.”

Teachers interested in using the Banzai program can visit teachbanzai.com or call 888-8-BANZAI.