Teams from Lafayette High School and Yates Elementary led their respective Region 6 divisions in Kentucky’s fall edition of The Stock Market Game.
The SMG is an interactive, interdisciplinary program that teaches students in grades 4-12 about economics and finance as teams research companies and invest virtual money in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds for several weeks. In competition, the teams are then ranked according to the equity in their portfolios. The Lafayette group’s $100,000 portfolio increased by $9,835 or 4.2 percent above the S&P 500 growth; the Yates portfolio was up $3,301 though it was 1.31 percent below the S&P.
Guided by teacher Connie Waespe, the Lafayette team included Draven McConathy, Zack Rankin, and Tyler See. The Yates group, led by teacher Leslie Nuckols, included Alfredo Alfaro, JRah Allen, Leigha Beatty, Daniel Galindo, Jonah Govea, JaQuana Hill, Vaughn Tovar, and Sid Nee Williams. As Region 6 winners, all these students received medals and certificates.
“The SMG has greatly benefited my students at Yates,” Nuckols said. “They now are listening to the evening news and discussing how current events are playing a part in the economy and affecting the stock market. This experience has really helped these students’ confidence.”