My Personal Finance class is the most enjoyable for me to teach because the students learn about things that matter to them now and in the future.  As we talk about savings, investments, checking accounts, loans, taxes, credit and budgets etc., the students can usually draw from their own personal experience or from someone they are close to and make the subject relevant to themselves.

Some students have a good example in their home that has taught them these important financial subjects, but many do not.  I have had some parents tell me, “I’m so glad you are teaching them these concepts because I have failed to do it at home.  Maybe I should come and take your class.” I know this is an important subject that the students want to learn about because my class enrollment has quadrupled in 4 years. 

There is nothing better than when former students come drop by to tell me that they just put some money into a CD account, that they have saved enough money to accomplish one of their goals or that they created a budget for Prom.   We are definitely helping them create a better financial future by offering this course.

Quotes from students:

“I discovered how to make my money work for me.”   - Bo Nemelka

“It really opened my eyes to how much business & finance affects every aspect of our lives.”   - Bryce Abplanalp

“The finance class at RHS really helped me define what financial success is to me.  I want to control of my money, not have my money  control  me.”  -  Blake Nemelka

Gayle Whitefield
Business Teacher
Riverton High School