Local bank provides online financial program to schools
It is important that young adults learn about financial responsibility at a pace that corresponds with their ability to earn and save money.
Originally posted in McCook Gazette
McCOOK, Neb. — Local students are getting a free education in how
to manage their money. Pinnacle Bank stepped up to make partial or full remote learning in the wake of COVID-19 easier. Thanks to their sponsorship at their McCook branch, over 420 students and teachers at McCook Jr. High, McCook Sr. High, and Hayes Secondary School have free access to Banzai. Banzai is an award-winning online financial literacy program and content library of articles, calculators, and personalized Coaches. All of these resources are available to students at home or in the classroom via any device that can access the Internet.
“Banzai is a web-based financial literacy program. Kids get their own accounts, and they work through assignments that are based on real life,” says Morgan Vandagriff, co-founder of Banzai. “But because Pinnacle Bank 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 Pinnacle Bank realizes that and they’re doing something about it.”
Banzai content builds a foundation of practical knowledge and gives students the tools to create a sound financial future. While students learn, teachers can easily monitor and grade their progress remotely. After finishing Banzai, students will know how to track where their money is and what it’s for, recognize financial trade-offs, build a budget, and more. At a time when many are facing unprecedented financial challenges, these lessons are invaluable.
“Pinnacle Bank has a strong commitment to our local communities and schools and want to do our part to prepare students for a successful financial future,” says Kent Craw, Market President, McCook. “It is important that young adults learn about financial responsibility at a pace that corresponds with their ability to earn and save money.”
Banzai resources are used by over 72,000 teachers across the U.S. The courses align with Nebraska’s state curriculum requirements, making the program a fun way for students to gain vital financial literacy skills. pinnbank.teachbanzai.com.