A fifth-grade student team from A.O. Marshall Elementary School came in second place in a statewide Stock Market Game™ spring elementary state competition. Hosted by the SIFMA Foundation in collaboration with dedicated local partners, The Stock Market Game continues to underscore the value of equipping young people with essential financial skills and knowledge. This program allows students to engage in the complexities of stock trading by managing a simulated portfolio with a virtual $100,000. Through this hands-on learning experience, participants gain valuable insights into economics, finance, and market dynamics.
Students on the winning second place team included A.O. Marshall Elementary School fifth-grade students Noah Guzman, Jamarr Lee, Charon McNair, Hector Ortiz Calderon, and Marco Santana. The students will each receive a medal and split a $75.00 American Express Team Gift Card.
The fifth-grade social studies unit focused on civics and economics in the United States. Students also spend time learning about the free-market economic system. Other Marshall fifth-grade students who participated in the virtual game included: Jesse Dezee, Justin Hernandez, Jonah Johnson, Miracle Johnson, Enijah Mcglothen, Maleah Murphy, Elena Ortiz, Jazlyn Reyes, and Viviana Reyes.
"We are so proud of our fifth-grade students who participated in the Stock Market Game," said A.O. Marshall Elementary School Principal Dr. Emilia Herrera, "The competition allowed our students to practice research, critical thinking, and analytical skills."
"This program truly built up the students’ financial literacy and piqued their interest.” fifth-grade Marshall teacher Maida Cornelio-Sauseda added, “Seeing my 5th graders checking their stock prices and monitoring trends daily was impressive!"
The SIFMA Foundation, with its enduring commitment to financial education, partners with local organizations to bring this transformative program to students nationwide. The program ensures learners from diverse backgrounds gain access to critical financial education tools, fostering skills that prepare them for a lifetime of informed financial decision-making.
Students simulate real-world investing by trading stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds on the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ. They research market trends, monitor global news, and make strategic trades in real time using the Stock Market Game’s online tools or smartphone app. Additionally, students can prioritize socially responsible investments aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
“Congratulations to all the outstanding student teams who excelled in this semester’s Stock Market Game,” said Melanie Mortimer, President of the SIFMA Foundation. “This program is about more than just numbers—it’s about inspiring the next generation of leaders to think critically, make informed choices, and approach financial challenges with confidence. By partnering with schools across the country, we’re providing students with tools and opportunities that will serve them for a lifetime, from excelling in their careers to achieving personal financial security. We are deeply thankful for the dedication of educators who make this transformative learning possible.”