Students develop a greater sense of confidence when they are no longer intimidated by things they do not understand. This innovative and successful curriculum, sponsored by Ariel Investments and Nuveen Investments, Inc., demystifies the financial world by providing an opportunity for the students to manage a real $20,000 portfolio.

In the early years the money is invested and managed by a group comprised of representatives from Ariel and Nuveen Investments, Inc. As the students advance through the academy’s unique investment curriculum, they become actively involved in making the investment decisions. In fact, a Junior Board of Directors (made up of select seventh and eighth grade students) is ultimately responsible for deciding how their class’ money is invested. Upon graduation all profits that have accumulated in the 8th grade account are divided in half. One half is given back to the academy by the students in the form of a class gift to improve the school. The other half is distributed among the graduates as cash or invested in a 529 college savings plan with an additional $1,000, depending on each student’s choice. The original $20,000 grant is then turned over to the next incoming first grade class, making the program self-perpetuating.

Building on the Academy’s philosophy of global entrepreneurship, the Ariel-Nuveen Investment Program engages students in the principles of business, economics and ownership – all of which have a lasting impact on their personal and financial growth.

The Ariel –Nuveen Investment Program goal of increasing financial literacy extends to the families of the Ariel Community Academy students through the semi-annual Ariel Community Academy InvestEd Newsletter.