Raymond Tran Promotes Financial Literacy Through Stock Market Game in Middle School Classroom

Raymond Tran, a teacher at I.S. 281 in Brooklyn, New York, is promoting financial literacy among his middle school students through a program called the “Stock Market Game.” The nonprofit organization SIFMA Foundation introduced this simulation game to Tran’s class, which enables students to manage $100,000 in virtual funds to invest in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. By participating in this activity, Tran’s pupils gain practical knowledge about investments and financial management. This program has been operating since the late 1970s and over 600,000 students participate annually. In addition to the game, Tran’s classroom features resources such as standing desks, finance- and business-focused news, and even a bell for students to ring when they complete a stock deal. Tran, who previously worked at Ernst & Young, explained that he switched from his corporate job due to a lack of impact on people’s lives. He believes that teaching financial literacy and investment principles is crucial for young people to accumulate wealth.