Knox County Schools is leading the way in financial literacy education thanks to the dedicated efforts of KCS Social Studies Supervisor Katherine Shultz, Region 1 Social Studies Facilitator Angie Maxey, and Northshore Elementary 1st grade teacher Alison Thompson.
Their work recently earned the district the prestigious Platinum Leadership Award from the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission, marking significant strides in equipping young students with essential financial skills.
The journey began with Alison Thompson, who introduced financial literacy concepts in her classroom by utilizing the Tennessee State Museum’s “traveling trunk” program.
This resource kit, filled with hands-on learning materials, encouraged students to explore basic financial concepts through engaging activities.
Thompson tailored the trunk’s resources for her first graders, incorporating pictures of items with price tags and play money to make the lesson relatable.
“Kids need that hands-on activity,” Thompson explained. “They’re learning to save, spend, and budget. It’s a part of our adult life, so it should be a part of their life as well.”
Thompson’s approach caught the attention of Angie Maxey, the Region 1 Social Studies Facilitator, who was inspired by what she saw in Thompson’s classroom.
“She saw this in action and was so impressed,” noted Katherine Shultz. “At the beginning of the summer, we decided this was so supportive of our econ standards in our early elementary grades that we wanted to host district-wide professional development on the subject.”
Thompson’s work, combined with KCS’s commitment to financial education, led to the district being recognized at the state level.
Shultz and Maxey represented the district at the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission’s award reception in Nashville.
“It was a huge honor. That work was recognized and our efforts were applauded,” Shultz shared. “It’s a good thing for our students, and they are benefiting from it.”
Teachers who are interested in learning more about incorporating financial literacy in their classrooms can visit the Tennessee Department of Treasury website.
Excellence in Foundational Skills
Knox County Schools is committed to Excellence in Foundational Skills. Early literacy and middle school math are foundational to a student’s academic and lifelong success. By preparing students to read proficiently by third grade and reach or surpass proficiency in Algebra I by ninth grade, KCS equips every student with the skills needed to succeed in and beyond the classroom.