On December 3, 2024, Shirley Tucker, a dedicated educator at La Vernia Intermediate School, was awarded the prestigious Firstmark Credit Union Education Grant for her innovative projects aimed at enhancing the learning experience of her students. Tucker’s initiative, which is designed to empower students with practical financial literacy and reading skills, includes two dynamic projects: Finances On Wheels and Reading To Go. These projects will provide students with hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom settings, fostering both academic growth and real-world skills.
The success of both projects will be evaluated through a combination of methods, including direct observations, assignments, curriculum-based assessments, and most importantly, the sense of confidence students gain as they strengthen their reading and math skills. For Tucker, seeing her students take pride in their progress is the true measure of success. With the support of the Firstmark Credit Union Education Grant, Shirley Tucker's vision is set to come to life, offering her students unique learning opportunities that will prepare them for the challenges and successes they will encounter in the future. Through Finances On Wheels and Reading To Go, Tucker is not just teaching her students; she’s equipping them with the skills they need to thrive both in and outside the classroom.
