Revolutionary Program Aims to Transform Financial Literacy in Students
M&T Bank partners with Proctor High School for a groundbreaking pilot program in financial education, impacting over 400 ninth-graders.

Discovering the intricacies of managing money is no easy feat, especially for the young minds of today. Recent findings highlight a troubling statistic; only a mere 29% of Americans have experienced a personal finance course during their formative high school years. M&T Bank has set out to transform this narrative.
A Bold Initiative Taking Shape
In a collaborative effort, M&T Bank has partnered with Proctor High School in Utica to initiate a program that is proving to be a game-changer. The pilot program focuses not only on classroom teaching but also incorporates innovative, hands-on experiences. This approach is designed to engage students in a multifaceted learning journey, offering more than the traditional textbook education.
Strengthening Foundations through Interactive Learning
The students, primarily ninth graders, are receiving guidance from M&T Bank staff through diverse presentations, alongside interactive games and activities. These sessions are scheduled monthly and aim to break down complex financial concepts into enjoyable learning segments, ensuring that each student gains practical financial acumen.
Proctor High School at the Forefront
While M&T Bank experts lead various initiatives, the program’s strength is greatly enhanced by the involvement of Proctor High School’s dedicated teachers. These educators ensure that financial literacy is seamlessly woven into the curriculum. By doing so, they prepare students to face real-world financial challenges with confidence and knowledge.
Inspiring Results and the Path Forward
The impact has already been notable; over 400 ninth graders have been positively influenced since the program’s inception. As stated in Spectrum News, this kind of integrative learning not only arms students with essential life skills but also sets a precedent for future educational paradigms.
With successful student engagement and inspiring outcomes, this pilot program could potentially serve as a template for schools nationwide. Empowering young individuals with financial literacy is more than just an educational advantage—it’s a necessary toolkit for life.