Question 1

What is the Money Smart Ambassador Program?

Accepted Answer

BFCC's Money Smart Ambassador Program trains high school students to become financial literacy leaders. Money Smart Ambassador students learn through FDIC Money Smart online modules, work in a team with your teacher-mentor, and create an original presentation, video, or game to compete at our annual  competition “ BFCC Financial Education Summit.”

Question 2

What topics can my presentation be about?

Accepted Answer

Any financial topic that matters to you and your peers. Past presentations have covered credit, budgeting, saving, investing, banking basics, cryptocurrency, inflation, and setting financial goals. The more creative and relevant to your community, the better.

Question 3

What courses are covered in the training?

Accepted Answer

BFCC uses the FDIC Money Smart program which covers: Learning About Credit, Setting Financial Goals, How to Select Your Financial Institution, Budgeting, Saving, and more. Your teacher-mentor will guide your team through the modules.

Question 4

What is the time commitment for students?

Accepted Answer

Students have approximately 4 to 5 months to prepare for their presentation at the Financial Education Summit. During this time they work with their teacher-mentor and team to complete their Money Smart modules and develop their presentation, video, or game at their own pace.

Question 5

Do students receive any certificates or recognition?

Accepted Answer

Yes! As Money Smart Ambassadors complete each FDIC Money Smart module online, they receive an official certificate for each course they pass. These certificates are a great addition to any college application or resume — proof that you took your financial education seriously before graduating high school.

Question 6

Does BFCC offer scholarships?

Accepted Answer

At the Financial Education Summit, winning teams receive cash prizes — 1st place $1,250, 2nd place $1,000, and 3rd place $750, plus a $50 stipend per student participant.

Question 7

Which schools participate?

Accepted Answer

Presently  BISD (6 high schools), HCISD (4 high schools),  and La Feria ISD.  We do have an Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with each school participating.  We are always working to expand to more districts across the Rio Grande Valley. If your school is not on this list, encourage one of your teachers to reach out to us.

Question 8

When is the summit?

Accepted Answer

Summits are the BFCC Financial Education Competition and they are typically held between February and April during Financial Education Month. Check with your teacher-mentor for your school's specific date.

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