OXFORD – The Oxford Academy and Central School District added a new life skill to its educational curriculum last year with NBT Bank’s Strive Financial Literacy program, and the program was so successful that it is continuing this year. Classes will be offered twice per month starting in October, 2016 and running through May, 2017.
“Oxford Academy is committed to providing a wide range of opportunities for students to learn and maximize their potential. Our partnership with NBT Bank has paved the way for rich learning experiences that will benefit students not only today, but for years to come,” said Oxford Academy and Central Schools Superintendent Shawn Bissetta. “Financial literacy is a key ingredient to an individual’s overall well-being, and thanks to our partnership with NBT, our students are being provided with the tools needed to successfully navigate through a multitude of challenges and opportunities related to personal financial planning.”
Throughout this course, Work-Based Learning Program students get a critical introduction to checking and savings accounts, budgeting, and understanding credit; as well as a special focus on auto financing, student loans and paying for college, and protecting against identity theft.
NBT Bank of Oxford Assistant Branch Manager Bradley Oliver will visit the eleventh and twelfth graders in their Work-Based Learning class to work with the students through various scenarios that they should expect as they prepare for more financial responsibility, college and careers.
“Talking with students about the importance of understanding all of the aspects of financial management - from student loans to credit cards - helps them to develop strong financial habits and pay more attention to their money as their needs grow,” said Oliver.
NBT Bank’s Strive® program works with local teachers to help today’s youth grow into financially responsible, independent adults. To learn more, visit www.nbtbank.com/strive.

- Kieran Coffey