LearnStar As you know, the number one challenge facing teachers today is student boredom. You will find the LearnStar system offers a proven and effective solution. Our innovative approach targets the needs of students and makes learning fun. LearnStar’s stimulating method of instruction leads to superb results. A motivated learner = higher retention = academic improvement! In a nation where a third of high school seniors already use a credit card and children are considered to be the most powerful consumers in a household, the need for personal financial literacy is evident. However, recent studies and surveys indicate that today’s youth is inadequately prepared to make sound decisions regarding personal financial matters. In light of these findings, many states have enacted legislation requiring that financial education be integrated into the curriculum. Furthermore, the importance of teaching financial and economic knowledge has been highlighted under Title V (Innovative Assistance Programs) in the Education Bill (No Child Left Behind) signed by President Bush. LearnStar has created a comprehensive curriculum designed to increase financial literacy by teaching the fundamental lessons of personal finance. In order to prepare students to handle their own finances and prepare for their future, LearnStar provides academic competitions specifically designed to teach personal financial management skills. The LearnStar Financial Literacy module has been designed to follow the Personal Finance Education Guidelines and Benchmarks published by the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy. The module activities are designed to teach how to set long and short term personal and financial goals, create and work within a personal budget, identify how and when to use credit, saving and investing, understand the basics of banking services, buying a car, career planning, consumer awareness and housing issues. Written by trained experts in the fields of consumer, economic, and personal finance education, LearnStar competitions involve and inspire each student with its exciting, interactive technology. Each LearnStar activity guides the learner through the thinking processes required to successfully prepare for achieving financial literacy. For additional information on the LearnStar program contact Tracey Blaue, Director of Education at 417-889-7474 or tracey@cccs-swmo.com