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Promoting Financial Literacy: SouthEast Bank's Initiative in Tennessee Schools

In a significant move towards enhancing financial literacy among students, SouthEast Bank has announced its support for an educational curriculum through a partnership with EVERFI, a leader in driving social impact through education. This initiative aims to benefit over 2,600 high school students across 30 schools in Middle and East Tennessee during the 2024-2025 academic year.

The financial literacy curriculum provided by EVERFI is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills necessary for making informed financial decisions throughout their lives. The program features an interactive learning platform that breaks down complex financial concepts into manageable lessons. For instance, students learn about understanding their pay stubs, and navigating the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), alongside essential skills that form the foundation of financial literacy as they transition into adulthood.

Importance of Financial Education

Ray Martinez, CEO of EVERFI, emphasizes the importance of financial education: "Understanding your finances and making sound financial decisions is key to a strong future, but many individuals often find it challenging to access age-appropriate and comprehensible information." By introducing such curricula at a crucial developmental stage, students are better prepared to transition smoothly into adulthood and engage confidently in the new economy.

Aside from innovative educational content, EVERFI's platform also provides vital reporting features. Teachers are able to track the progress of each student uniquely and obtain real-time insights into their performance. The platform aggregates critical data regarding hours of learning completed and knowledge gained, ensuring educators and students can monitor development effectively.

Since the inception of their partnership in 2014, SouthEast Bank has consistently impacted an average of 3,000 students annually. Recently, students involved in the program have dedicated over 6,800 hours to learning, reporting increased confidence in making financial decisions moving forward. Impressively, 84% of involved students stated they felt prepared to use budgeting techniques for managing their spending and saving after completing the program.

The Bank’s Commitment to Community Empowerment

Ron Gambill, Executive Vice President for SouthEast Bank, shared the bank’s commitment: "We believe in empowering students and their families with the education and opportunities they need for confident financial decision-making." The long-term strategic partnership with EVERFI is a testament to SouthEast Bank’s dedication to community investment, offering enriching learning opportunities to local learners.

About EVERFI and SouthEast Bank

EVERFI is a prominent technology company specializing in social impact through education. Founded in 2008, the company has reached millions of K-12 and adult learners globally with its transformative digital content across various critical life topics such as financial wellness, mental health, and workplace conduct. Significantly, EVERFI provides schools with access to essential educational resources at no cost, ensuring vital life skills are accessible to all students.

Meanwhile, SouthEast Bank, headquartered in Farragut, Tennessee, is committed to supporting the financial success of its customers with a comprehensive range of loan and deposit products. Boasting assets exceeding $3.3 billion, the bank's local decision-making and community involvement have been integral to its success since its establishment.

In conclusion, SouthEast Bank’s initiative, in conjunction with EVERFI, represents a crucial step towards fostering financial literacy among youth, setting them on a path toward informed financial decision-making.

For additional details regarding SouthEast Bank's community programs or to learn more about EVERFI, please visit their respective websites.