For Students (K-12)
Empowering K-12 Students to Think Critically and Act Responsibly
Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee, the Arizona Financial Literacy Task Force, and the Freedom Center announced the recipients of the inaugural Arizona Award for Excellence in Teaching Financial Literacy at the State Capitol. The three winners received full scholarships for an online Master of Legal Studies in Law & Economics, a joint program of the Freedom Center and UArizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law.
“Financial literacy teachers equip young people with essential skills to budget, save, and prepare for retirement,” said Mary L. Rigdon, Freedom Center Director. “This award honors and supports three exceptional K-12 educators bringing financial literacy to life.”
Ethics, Economy, and Entrepreneurship
This course is for high school students who want to go beyond basic state standards for economics. Students will come away better prepared for college, but also for the ethical challenges that go with careers in business, or in law, politics, education, or journalism.
The curriculum for this course is an evolving collaboration between individual high school teachers and University faculty. The course textbook comes with additional definitions, videos, podcasts, and articles in it’s online resource library.
Oral History Mini-Documentary Collection
The Freedom Center has launched an Oral History Collection as a dynamic resource to help schools prepare students to become civically responsible and knowledgeable adults. Approved by the Arizona State Board of Education, this collection includes three mini-documentaries that showcase compelling first-person accounts comparing other governing philosophies with those of the United States. These stories provide valuable insights into the principles of patriotism, freedom, and governance through the lived experiences of individuals from around the world.
These powerful stories in the Oral History Collection provide students with a deeper understanding of the principles of governance and freedom, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and appreciation for the opportunities afforded by democratic systems.
Sylwia Cavalcant
One of the featured contributors is Sylwia Cavalcant, a Residential Faculty Member in Economics at Mesa Community College. Born and raised in Poland, Cavalcant shares her perspective on living under a communist regime and the profound impact of transitioning to democratic systems. Her story offers a unique lens on the importance of economic and political freedom.
Representative Quang Nguyen
Another story comes from Representative Quang Nguyen, who recounts his journey from Vietnam to the United States. Nguyen’s personal experiences highlight the stark contrasts between the freedoms enjoyed in America and the oppressive conditions of his homeland. His narrative emphasizes the value of civic engagement and the opportunities made possible by liberty.
Speaker Ben Toma and his Parents
The collection also features a mini-documentary on Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives Ben Toma and his parents, Ana and Cornel Toma. Originally from Romania, the Toma family shares their experiences of life under authoritarian rule and their eventual journey to the United States. Their account underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of democracy.
Teacher Testimonials
Explore inspiring stories from recipients of the Arizona Award for Excellence in Teaching Financial Education. These educators share their impactful experiences and innovative approaches to empowering students with essential financial skills.
Inspiring Financial Literacy in the Classroom
Gisell Astrid
Math Teacher at Douglas High School
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
Claudia Brown Morgan
7th & 8th Grade Teacher at Aguila Elementary School
R. David Montano Scholarship
The Freedom Center is proud to honor the life and legacy of this extraordinary educator, who made an impact throughout his career and in particular, Pueblo High School. The R. David Montaño Scholarship is awarded to Pueblo College Prep Academy graduates to attend the University of Arizona. Hector Guzman earned the inaugural scholarship in 2023.
Key Partners
Arizona School Administrators
Arizona School Administrators has been promoting and supporting excellence in educational leadership in Arizona since 1971. ASA serves over 1,500 school administrators from across the state.
Learn More at: AZSA.org
Arizona Council on Economic Education
The Arizona Council on Economic Education (ACEE) is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to entrepreneurship, economic and financial literacy, and workforce development in Arizona.
