James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School

Milwaukee, WI
Grant: $11,000

"Weighing in on Math" is an actuarial volunteer mentoring after school program targeting their high-risk students. The Wisconsin Actuarial Club has been working with the school in developing this program and recruiting volunteer actuaries to teach financial literacy to a group of fourth grade students.

Topics deal with real world financial literacy, but the goals center on developing self-confidence in solving problems and becoming role models for the students. Prior to each session, the mentors and school personnel meet to discuss the educational topics and the methods they will use to teach each concept. This is where the real strengths of the actuary emerge.

The fall session starts with basic financial literacy issues (checking, savings, interest and credit), followed in winter by an introduction to Excel, and finally in spring, a business project that puts all of this knowledge into a practical application.

Check out how Riley corresponds with volunteers on current ASA activities.

Programs

James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School