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AUGUSTA — Brett Shifrin, a math teacher at Gould Academy in Bethel, was recently named the 2016 recipient of the Maine Jump$tart Coalition Financial Educator of the Year Award.
Shifrin, who has been in education for more than 20 years, created an innovative course for students called “Math of Financial Matters,” which has been very successful in providing students with a better understanding of financial literacy as they enter the adult world.
The board of directors of Maine Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy created the the Maine Jump$tart Coalition Financial Educator of the Year Award to recognize a Maine educator who has distinguished themselves through their efforts to improve the financial capability of the students and families that they serve.
Shifrin will be formally honored at the 2017 Fostering Financial Education in Maine Schools Conference on April 28, in Augusta. In addition to the award, the winning educator receives an all-expense paid trip to attend the National JumpStart Educator Conference, as well as a $500 financial education grant from Machias Savings Bank.
“Educators can play such an important role in moving financial education in our schools forward. This award is a way to acknowledge and honor individuals who are committed to this mission and also encourage others to do so as well,” explained Mary Dyer, president of the Maine Jump$tart Coalition Board.
“Brett’s dedication to financial education is making a difference in the lives of his students, and that is a gift worthy of recognition,” said Dyer about his stand-out nomination. “The board was impressed by his innovation, and commitment to helping students and the community to better understand financial education.”
In a letter nominating Brett for the award, Andrea Alford, math department chair at Gould Academy, wrote, “Brett’s passion about learning, teaching and sharing as much as he can about personal finance makes him such a valuable resource for our students and faculty. As someone who has dedicated his life to working with students, I cannot think of a more deserving person for this award.”
PHOTO: Brett Shifrin, math teacher at Gould Academy in Bethel, was named 2016 Financial Educator of the Year for Maine.
