Financial Literacy Retreat for Educators

It has been a tradition for Iowa Jump$tart to sponsor teachers to attend the National Jump$tart Educator Conference. This year the conference is November 7 – 9, 2025 for at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel in downtown Boston, MA. Apply for your scholarship to attend today! If you are accepted, Jump$tart will pay for your conference hotel, meals, admission, and travel (covered by the Iowa Jump$tart Coalition).

National ConFERENCE Details and Scholarships

Bruce Bennett, North Polk High School Educator and 2024 National Educator Conference attendee, had this to say.

I am incredibly grateful for your generous support in funding my scholarship to attend the National Jump$tart Conference in Louisville. This opportunity has been invaluable, providing me with essential financial literacy knowledge and skills. Your investment in my future and the future of my students means the world to me.

Thank you to the Youth Development Fund for supporting three teachers’ attendance to this event.

Thanks to all who attended this conference. See a recap of the conference in our blog.

Event Details

Date: Friday, June 27, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Hughes Education Center, Iowa Arboretum and Gardens
1875 Peach Ave, Madrid, IA

Highlights

This event is limited to only 25 financial literacy educators, so early registration is highly encouraged.

Attendees will spend the day in a relaxed, scenic environment, collaborating with peers, sharing ideas and lesson plans, and exploring how financial literacy can be integrated into various subject areas.

Traveling from out of town? We’ve got you covered! Enjoy free overnight accommodations the night before the retreat, plus a $50 travel stipend to help with expenses.

Agenda

Friday, June 27

Time Session Title/Activity Presenter(s) Description
8–9 AM Registration View partner exhibits and enjoy some light breakfast catering.
9–9:15 AM Retreat Welcome Iowa Jump$tart Board and Retreat Planners President’s welcome, sponsor recognition, introductions, and event housekeeping.
9:15–10:15 AM Using Case Studies in the Classroom Kevin Gartman and Mike Johnson Kevin will share his team’s experience at the National Personal Finance Challenge. Mike will share a handful of case studies from past state Challenges to show how classroom knowledge applies to real-life scenarios.
10:15–10:30 AM Break Enjoy light refreshments and view the partner exhibits.
10:30–11:30 AM Understanding Credit Heather Gaumer – Assistant Region Head – Midwest, Sallie Mae Bank This session reviews the five main factors affecting credit scores, best practices for managing credit, and insights into FICO® Scores, credit cards, and reports.
11:30 AM–12:30 PM Lunch
Sponsored by ISL Education Lending
12:30–1 PM Stimulate Your Senses Discuss your use of financial education tools with colleagues and Jump$tart partners while enjoying the Arboretum’s beautiful grounds (weather permitting).
1–1:45 PM The Culture of Money Carolyn Steckelberg, AFC®, Assoc. Prof., ISU Explore how financial education empowers all students, and how culture, background, and personal experiences influence financial behavior and well-being. Learn to support students through inclusive tools and education.
2–3 PM Investing 101 Heather Kriener, Financial Literacy Director, Iowa Insurance Division Break down investment types, risks, and account options. Gain access to reputable classroom resources to support financial literacy instruction.
3–3:15 PM Break Enjoy light refreshments and view the partner exhibits.
3:15–4:15 PM Welcome to Retirement: A Simulation Carolyn Steckelberg, AFC®, Assoc. Prof., ISU This hands-on simulation encourages thinking about all stages of retirement—not just the beginning. Consider financial security and planning for yourself and the wider community.
4:15–5 PM Pitch Perfect You as the Teacher! [just for today!] Share your most effective lesson or resource with fellow educators. Offer practical tips and materials that have worked for your students.

Thank you to the Youth Development Fund, Community Choice Credit Union, ISL Education Lending, and First Bank for supporting this event.