Research indicates that teenagers spend billions of dollars annually. Unfortunately, the majority of these young consumers are not prepared to manage their finances wisely. Soon they will be out on their own. Some will move on to higher education, while others will venture directly into the workforce. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Division of Consumer Services has developed this educational outreach program specifically for Florida high school students to give them a competitive advantage as they go forward into the global marketplace.
Providing students with relevant consumer information in an easily understandable and fun format, the presentation is designed to empower them with the tools that will be necessary to make intelligent and informed decisions. Providing Florida's young adults and teens with this essential information moves us closer to our ultimate goal of raising their awareness as to the benefits that can be derived by simply being an informed consumer.
What Is the Program About?
This program attempts to bring consumer information and protection to Florida's students via dynamic, interactive classroom presentations. For the traditional 50 minute class period we have two different presentations. One covers the topics of identity theft and consumer scams, while the other covers credit scoring and reporting, credit card usage, buying/leasing a car, motor vehicle repair, landlord/tenant issues, health studios/gyms, and more. For block scheduled classes we have combined all of the topics into one presentation. Students are made aware of the fact that they have many rights as consumers, but along with those rights come a certain degree of RESPONSIBITY. We emphasize the importance of reading and understanding contracts before signing them, and encourage students to be skeptical of offers that seem "too good to be true".
Where Does it Happen?
The Division of Consumer Services' Consumer Education Coordinators will come right to your classroom. Classes may be combined, but the audience is typically limited to not more than 40 students in order to maximize the level of retention.
When is it Available?
From September of 2008 through the end of the 2008-2009 school year our Consumer Education Coordinators will attempt to visit as many classrooms in Florida's 67 counties as possible.
How Can I Participate?
Consumer Survival Skills 101 is scheduled based on requests submitted by teachers, guidance counselors, or administrators. Simply call 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) and ask to speak with John Roberts or Patti Kight, or complete an online Speaker Request Form.
