Elaine Ryan gives her students lessons in life.
Offering the elective money management at the high school, a class that covers budget planning, vehicle expenses, college costs and more, Ryan often invites local business representatives in to talk to her students.
“Students appreciate hearing what invited speakers offer to them,” she said. “Most speakers give more than knowledge, which makes students even more interested. I present the facts for the future, but the presenters give them facts they need to know today as well as a coupon for those who have a need to be filled presently.”
Most recently, Ryan invited Angela Strodel, an agent with Hills, Farnham & Hills, in to talk about automobile insurance with her class.
“This is such a great class about real life things,” Strodel said. “It really helps the students learn about things in life that they will actually use after high school such as filing their taxes, banking, checking, credit, finances, insurances and I’m sure so much more.”
“Angela’s presentation let students know there are more than the State Farm and Nationwide insurance offices. Her office deals with many, many insurance companies and can help students and parents locate a company that will best suit their needs,” Ryan said. “For students, it is always a welcome addition to have a guest speaker rather than the same routine of the classroom teacher.”
According to Ryan, money management has been an elective at Baker for 20-plus years.
“Guidance counselors and the information and business management department have tried to encourage all students to take this half year course,” she said. “It is a basic ‘how-to’ class for students to be prepared for what will be a part of their everyday life once they leave their parents’ nest.”
Having taught in the Baldwinsville Central School District for 23 years, 22 of which were at Baker High School, Ryan is a member of the information and business management department.
“Our department offers a wonderful opportunity for students to learn life skills as well as delving into the business world’s real dealings,” she said.
She is joined by Joe Bisignano, who teaches business ownership and management, a full-year course with college credit for those who have a desire to own a business, and Damon Villnave, a new addition to the department who teaches sports entertainment and marketing and business management. The department also offers two other college credit courses: accounting and business financial math.
“A student can get a good perspective on the business world if they have the time in their scheduling to choose the courses [as] they are all electives,” Ryan said.
For more information about Hills, Farnham & Hills Insurance (16 Oswego St., Baldwinsville), call 635-7600 or visit hillsfarnham.com.
