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Empowering Young Minds: Maine's Innovative Financial Literacy Program Celebrates Milestone

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In a significant stride towards fostering financial awareness among young learners, the Financial Authority of Maine (FAME) has successfully implemented its Invest in ME Reads program for five years. This initiative targets first through fifth graders across Maine's public schools, aiming to instill foundational concepts of money management. By distributing educational materials and engaging activities, FAME seeks to equip children with essential financial skills early on. The program also extends its reach to sixth graders through an interactive game that explores future career prospects. Notably, the program's impact extends beyond the classroom, positively influencing families as well. To commemorate this milestone, special guests visited Griffin Elementary School, highlighting the program's importance and effectiveness.

The Invest in ME Reads program began its journey in 2020, focusing on introducing financial literacy to young students. Each year, every student from first to fifth grade receives a specially curated children's book designed to teach valuable lessons about saving, budgeting, and responsible spending. Mary Dyer, FAME’s Financial Education Programs Manager, emphasizes the importance of starting financial education at an early age. "We believe that high school is too late to address these issues," she explains. "By reaching out to younger children, we can build a strong foundation that benefits both the child and the entire family."

One of the program's notable achievements is its ability to bridge the gap between school and home. Teachers like Brenda Simonton have witnessed firsthand how the program resonates with students. For instance, second graders at Griffin Elementary have shown a remarkable understanding of financial concepts. "They grasp the importance of money and saving," Simonton notes. "Many of them are already thinking about how they will manage their finances in the future."

To further engage students, FAME introduced Claim Your Future Fun Pack for sixth graders. This interactive game allows older children to explore potential career paths while learning about financial planning. The inclusion of fun activities ensures that learning remains enjoyable and impactful. Special events, such as the visit by Portland Sea Dogs' mascot Slugger and Director of Broadcasting Emma Tiedemann, add excitement and reinforce the program's message.

Since its inception, Invest in ME Reads has distributed over 200,000 books, with measurable positive outcomes. According to recent surveys, nearly 40% of participating families report improved knowledge and behavior in their children. This success underscores the program's effectiveness in promoting financial literacy. FAME continues to offer resources for teenagers and adults, ensuring comprehensive support for all age groups.

The ongoing success of Invest in ME Reads demonstrates the power of early financial education. By nurturing young minds with practical knowledge and skills, the program paves the way for a financially savvy generation. Through collaboration between schools, educators, and families, FAME is making significant strides in shaping a brighter financial future for Maine's youth.

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Special Education Milestone: Celebrating Achievements and Addressing Challenges

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In 2025, the world commemorates a significant milestone in special education: the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This legislation, first enacted in 1975, has transformed educational opportunities for students with disabilities. Throughout the year, Boston 25 News is spotlighting the accomplishments of students and educators while shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by young people with special needs in Massachusetts. One such story comes from the Kevin O’Grady School in Beverly, where success is measured not by traditional academic achievements but by the progress each student makes in their own unique way.

A Transformative Program at the Kevin O’Grady School

In the heart of Beverly, Massachusetts, lies the Kevin O’Grady School, a beacon of hope for children with special needs. For Shannon Perry of Danvers, this school has been a lifeline for her 9-year-old daughter, Mary, who has cerebral palsy and is non-verbal. Since joining the program at age three, Mary has made remarkable strides, learning to use her right arm to communicate and expressing herself through smiles and subtle movements. The school’s focus on inclusion and belonging has provided Mary with an environment where she thrives.

Fran Rosenberg, Executive Director of the Northshore Education Consortium, emphasizes that every child deserves a great education, one that fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. However, despite the successes, challenges persist. Massachusetts faces a capacity issue, particularly for children with behavioral disorders, social-emotional issues, and severe autism. A workforce shortage exacerbates the problem, leading to waitlists for essential programs. According to a recent survey, nearly all of the state's 24 special education collaboratives have students waiting for placement, with 489 children either on waiting lists or declined altogether.

Advocacy for Change

Rosenberg and advocates are urging lawmakers to reassess funding allocation to ensure all children receive the education they deserve. Currently, special education funding primarily relies on local resources, which can lead to competition between different groups of students. By increasing state reimbursement for local districts, more vital resources can be expanded, benefiting children like Mary. As Shannon Perry reflects, “This is the place where Mary is just like everybody else. She fits in, and she thrives.”

The journey of special education over the past five decades has been marked by progress and challenges. While celebrating the achievements of students and educators, it is crucial to address the systemic issues that still hinder access to quality education for all children with disabilities. Through continued advocacy and support, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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Embracing Tradition: Celebrating Chinese New Year with Family and Customs

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In the heart of winter, as families prepare to welcome the Lunar New Year, a wave of nostalgia and cultural pride sweeps through communities. This year, marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake on January 29th, many parents reflect on the traditions they grew up with and how they pass these customs down to their children. The celebration is not just about feasting and festivities but also about preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that future generations understand the significance of each ritual. From cleaning the house to exchanging oranges and tangerines, every activity holds deep symbolic meaning. Parents find joy in seeing their now-grown children continue these practices, even in college, by sending red envelopes filled with blessings and sweets. Through these acts, the spirit of the Lunar New Year lives on, connecting past and present.

Preserving Heritage: A Closer Look at Lunar New Year Traditions

In the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the approach of the Lunar New Year brings with it a flurry of preparations. As the date draws near, families immerse themselves in age-old rituals that symbolize renewal and prosperity. In the days leading up to the celebration, homes are thoroughly cleaned to rid them of any lingering bad luck from the previous year. However, once the New Year begins, sweeping or cleaning is avoided to prevent sweeping away the good fortune that may come with it. Oranges and tangerines, symbols of wealth and luck, are exchanged among family and friends, often accompanied by leaves for longevity. Red envelopes filled with money or treats are given to younger members of the family, symbolizing wishes for prosperity. The evening culminates in a grand banquet where traditional dishes like whole fish, representing abundance, and long noodles, symbolizing longevity, are enjoyed. These customs, passed down through generations, remind us of the importance of tradition and family bonds.

As a journalist, I am struck by the beauty and depth of these traditions. They serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. In a world that often feels disconnected, these rituals offer a way to reconnect with our roots and honor the wisdom of our ancestors. By teaching the next generation about these customs, we ensure that they carry forward the values and traditions that have shaped their identity. The Lunar New Year is not just a time for celebration; it is a moment to reflect on the richness of our cultural legacy and the importance of passing it on to future generations.

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