Make It Make Cents – Fund Your Fun Edition

A TEACH FOR AMERICA ZINE

MAKE IT MAKE CENTS

ISSUE 02 FUND YOUR FUN EDITION

HELLO! Make It Make Cents is a financial literacy zine for educators who want to up their money game and personal finance skills.

In this issue, we’re highlighting how teachers can boost their fun funds.

MEET OUR COLLABORATOR Jump$tart Financial Foundations for Educators The Jump$tart Financial Foundations for Educators (J$FFE) course was designed to boost educators’ financial wellness, effective money management skills, and future planning capabilities.

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THE

FUND YOUR FUN EDITION How to have a blast on a budget.

SUMMER BREAK ESCAPES

Teachers across the country find creative ways to make the most of their time off without breaking the bank. Discover their tips and insights on crafting memorable vacations while staying mindful of financial responsibilities—perfect to inspire traveling smartly and affordably.

LAURA’S SOUTHWEST TOUR THE TRIP: Laura, an elementary special education teacher, took a road trip to Dallas, Austin, and Phoenix to see live music, visit art museums, and cheer at a WNBA game.

THE BUDGET: Laura created a sinking fund in advance to be able to spend her money on life-changing experiences.

She also decided to drive to cut travel expenses. “It was a lot miles, but worth it,” she says.

ELIZABETH’S MUSICAL MEMORIES THE TRIP: A third-grade teacher and prog rock fan, Elizabeth saw her favorite singer in Dallas this summer.

THE BUDGET: Elizabeth kept this vacation under budget by staying with her sisters and cooking at their home.

BRIANNA’S FAMILY CRUISE THE TRIP: Brianna, an elementary PE coach, and her family spent the summer on a cruise to the Bahamas and Cozumel, Mexico. Brianna hopes to make these memories last a lifetime by taking a lot of photos.

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THE BUDGET: Brianna suggests looking for all-inclusive cruise packages to avoid any surprise spending.

WHAT CORPS MEMBERS USE TO SAVE MONEY As you dive into your first full-time job as an educator, you might find yourself facing financial challenges, and you’re not alone. Many young adults today struggle with financial issues due to a lack of basic financial literacy. Studies show that factors like poor financial education, the shift to digital money, economic uncertainty, and cultural hesitations about discussing money are major hurdles for Gen Z. To help teachers transition into the classroom, TFA has teamed up with Charles Schwab and its founder, The Jump$tart Coalition, for Personal Financial Literacy to offer a specialized money management course The Jump$tart Financial Foundations for Educators (J$FFE).

These resources are designed to boost your financial wellness and future planning skills, helping you avoid common financial pitfalls and gain practical knowledge.

My interest in J$FFE was sparked during a financially pivotal time as I began earning a salary for the first time.

— GABRIELLA HART (Metro Atlanta ’24)

J$FFE

Financial literacy is important to First Grade ELA teacher Gabriella Hart (Metro Atlanta ‘24) because it equips her with the knowledge and skills to manage her money.

“My interest in J$FFE was sparked during a financially pivotal time as I began earning a salary for the first time,” says Gabriella Hart (Metro Atlanta ’24).

“Recognizing the importance of managing my income wisely to cover living expenses and save for future needs, I sought reliable and comprehensive financial guidance.”

For second-grade teacher Margot May (Bay Area ‘22), financial wellness is as crucial as mental and physical health.

“Financial literacy empowers me to become financially well. Like attending therapy helps my mental well-being or eating healthy aids my physical wellbeing, financial literacy is an act of self-care.”

“With access to various investment options and detailed financial planning services, I can make well-informed decisions that optimize my salary earnings and contribute to my future financial stability.”

Financial literacy empowers me to become financially well. Like attending therapy helps my mental well-being or eating healthy aids my physical well-being, financial literacy is an act of self-care.

— MARGOT MAY (Bay Area ’22)

The partnership between Teach For America, Schwab, and Jump$tart is more than just a set of resources—it’s about giving you the tools to navigate your financial journey with confidence and clarity. With tailored support and accessible tools, TFA helps you build a solid financial foundation that meets your immediate needs and supports your long-term goals.

BANK ON YOUR LIBRARY In a world where entertainment often comes with a price tag, discovering the hidden gems of your local library can be a game-changer. From books that transport you to distant realms to workshops and clubs that unleash your creativity, libraries offer a treasure trove of free resources that can enrich your life without emptying your wallet. Here are some little-known perks that can save your piggybank:

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EVENTS

MANY LIBRARIES OFFER CAMERA EQUIPMENT FOR RENTAL. SHOOT A SHORT FILM WITH YOUR FRIENDS OR RENT A PROFESSIONAL CAMERA TO FLEX YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS.

HEAD TO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY’S WEBSITE AND SCROLL THROUGH THEIR CALENDAR – THEY MIGHT BE OFFERING FREE EVENTS SUCH AS MOVIE OR CRAFT NIGHTS.

CLUBS DIFFERENT HOBBY CLUBS TEND TO USE LIBRARIES AS THEIR MEETING SPACE. INTERESTED IN CHESS, HORTICULTURE, BOARD GAMES, OR KNITTING? YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY MIGHT OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND EXPLORE YOUR INTERESTS.

WISHLIST IRL

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Every teacher’s got one... the Amazon Classroom Wishlist. We asked teachers to share some of their hot ticket items.

THRIFTY THRILLS

LOCAL

LETTERBOXD

MOVIE PASS

Check out your city’s website for local events – free concerts, festivals with low entry fees, and more!

Sign up for LetterBoxd – based on your city, you can opt to receive emails with invitations to free film screenings.

If you love going to the movies, sign up for a movie pass, like AMC’s Stubs A-List, MoviePass, or Regal Unlimited.

You might find yourself saving some extra dollars every month.

MUSEUMS Check out your local museum’s website for free entry days.

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Indulge in arts and culture without compromising your financial goals!

MATINEE TICKETS Snag those weekend matinee tickets at your local theatre and catch a performance! Matinee tickets tend to be priced lower than evening shows (and remember to ask if they offer teacher discounts, or discounts for patrons under 30 years of age).

dinner party Cooking at home can be just as adventurous as eating at a restaurant, especially when you know the secrets to creating delicious meals with affordable, accessible ingredients.

Read below for practical advice on hosting dinner gatherings that are both achievable and unforgettable.

1. Plan Ahead, Avoid the Panic The key to a successful dinner party is planning. Start by drafting a menu that leverages affordable, pantryfriendly ingredients. You can create 3-4 courses (salad, appetizer, entree, dessert). For the appetizer, use those savvy meal prep skills and work some sheet pan magic. While the appetizer roasts in the oven, your entree can be anything from pasta dishes to hearty stews. You can outsource dessert (see Tip #4) or go with something everyone will love, like ice cream (no cooking necessary).

2. Master the Art of the One-Pot Wonder One-pot meals like chili, risotto, or a cozy casserole not only simplify cooking but also make clean-up a breeze. Plus, these dishes are often even better the next day, in case you find you have some leftovers.

3. Shop Smart, Not Hard Be savvy with your shopping. Hit up local farmers’ markets or discount grocery stores for fresh, seasonal produce. These markets often have better deals and fresher options than big-box stores. Keep an eye out for sales and stock up on staples that can be used in multiple recipes. You might find your dinner party meal inspires your next meal prep.

4. Think Potluck-Style Don’t be afraid to delegate. Make your dinner party a potluck by asking guests to bring either an appetizer or dessert. This not only spreads the cost but also adds variety to your menu. It’s a win-win: you get some tasks off your plate, and your guests get to showcase their culinary creations.

5. Keep the Drinks Simple Wine or cocktails might seem essential, but a wellchosen selection of non-alcoholic beverages can be just as impressive. Craft a simple homemade lemonade or iced tea with fresh herbs for a refreshing touch that won’t break the bank.

6. Decorate with What You’ve Got No need for fancy table settings—use what you already have. Arrange a simple bouquet of seasonal flowers or use greenery from your garden to add a touch of elegance. The goal is an inviting atmosphere, not an extravagant expense.

7. Practice Your Presentation Presentation is half the battle. A little garnish goes a long way in making a meal look gourmet. Fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil can make even a simple dish look restaurant-worthy.

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SELF-CARE SPLURGE

Teachers open up about their favorite self-care splurges — those small luxuries or experiences that bring them peace and recharge their spirits.

A kid’s meal.

I also believe in the power of naps.

Elvia

I love to get new clothes!

Quentavin

A new jigsaw puzzle or a Dr. Pepper.

Liz

Bringing home a new plant or two boosts my mood!

Laura

A new book for my Kindle.

Iced mocha for the win.

Christian

Jessica

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COMIN

G SOON

Affor d sustai able (and n to cel able) ways eb holida rate the y seas on.

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