The directive was “Raise your hand if you are EverFi certified” and 170 students at Pike County High School raised their hands.
Pike County High School hosted the First National Bank Financial Scholars Certification Ceremony at the school’s Fine Arts Building Thursday morning. Students in grades nine and 12 received their certification.
EverFi- Financial Literacy is a new-media learning platform that uses the latest technology and social networking to bring complex financial concepts to life for today’s digital generation.
Nikki Huels, EverFi representative, congratulated the students on their certification and on acquiring financial skills that will be valuable tools now and in the future.
“The students have earned certification in financial capability which is a valuable mark of distinction on resumes and college applications,” she said. “All EverFi Financial Literacy training was done online and integrated into the existing curriculum.”
PCHS Principal Willie Wright said the FNB Scholars Certification Ceremony was a special occasion because the students have completed an important task.
Wright expressed appreciation to FNB, EverFi and the teachers at PCHS for their support of the program.
“Without their support, this opportunity for our students would not be possible,” Wright said.
John Ramage, FNB president and CEO, congratulated the students on their “big achievement.”
“Our part – the bank’s part – was insignificant,” he said. “But you have learned lessons about life and about partnerships.”
Ramage told the students that cities, schools and businesses work together to make Pike County a better place.
“First National Bank’s number one partnership is our association with Pike County High School,” he said. “The Business and Finance Academy here is a model going forward. I was in Washington recently and Rep. Martha Roby was telling others about the Academy.”
Ramage told the students they have many reasons to be proud of their school.
“You have a good school because you choose to have a good school,” he said. “Last year, the participation in EverFi wasn’t good. This year, participation increased by 779 percent and that’s outstanding.”
Demarcus May became EverFi certified Thursday and expressed appreciation to FNB, EverFi and the school’s administration and faculty for making it possible.
“Being financially literate will allow us to make sound financial decisions and will have a long-term positive impact on our lives,” May said.
Ramage said FNB partners with EverFi in making an investment in eight area schools – Pike County, Charles Henderson, Goshen, Zion Chapel, Pike Liberal Arts and Ariton high schools and Pike County Elementary School and Banks Schools.